Zhangye Danxia Viewing Platform Circuit

The Zhangye Danxia Viewing Platform Circuit connects boardwalks and platforms across the rainbow-striped landforms of Zhangye Danxia National Geopark in Linze County, Zhangye, Gansu, China. The geopark lies about 30-40 km west of Zhangye city, reached by bus or taxi, and has parking at the visitor centre. The geopark sells a ticket, about CNY 74 in 2026 reports, that includes the eco-shuttle between platforms, and reports list tourist-season opening from about 5:30 AM to 7 PM, April 28 to August 31. Visitors should confirm current hours and prices on arrival. The circuit covers about 4-6 km of boardwalks and stairs between four main viewing platforms and takes roughly 2-3 hours. Elevation is about 1,800-2,000 m on plateau terrain, and climbs are limited to short stair sections rather than sustained ascents. Technical difficulty is very low, and the route is closer to a sightseeing walk than a strenuous hike. Surfaces are timber boardwalks, concrete steps and paved platforms, with railings at viewpoints. Exposure to sun and wind is high because the landscape is open and treeless, and shade is minimal, so sun protection matters in summer. Key landmarks are the four platforms overlooking the red, orange and ochre striped ridges, with each giving a different angle on the formations. The platforms can be visited in any order using the shuttle, and visitors can shorten the day by skipping the furthest platform. Water and snacks are sold at the entrance and some platform areas, but not along every boardwalk, so carrying a bottle is sensible. There are no huts, and shelter from rain is limited to visitor buildings and shuttle stops. A windproof layer helps in early morning, when temperatures on the plateau are low even in summer. Colours are most intense in low-angle morning or late afternoon light and after rain, while midday sun tends to flatten the stripes and brings the largest crowds.