Tianxingqiao Stone Forest and Cave Loop

The Stone Forest and Cave Loop is a short circuit in the Tianxingqiao Scenic Area, Zhenning County, Anshun, Guizhou, China, close to Huangguoshu. Visitors reach the area on the scenic-area shuttle from the Huangguoshu entrance, a ride of about 10 minutes, and a combined or separate ticket is bought at the gate. The loop covers about 3 km and takes one and a half to two and a half hours, with under 100 m of height change, so it is graded easy and suits first-time hikers. The surface combines stone steps, flagstone paths, a cave passage and stepping stones across a stream, and some sections are wet and uneven. Shade is intermittent, with open stretches among the rock gardens and cool air inside the cave. The route passes bonsai-like karst formations where trees grow out of limestone, the Tianxing Cave with its stalactites and water channels, and the river crossings on stone steps that give the scenic area its name. Turn-around points exist at the cave entrance and at the river steps for those who prefer a shorter walk. Kiosks and toilets are near the entrance, but water should be carried for the loop itself. The cave is damp and lit by installed lighting, though a small torch is useful, and low ceilings call for careful footing. The scenic area is often paired with Huangguoshu on a single day, since the shuttle makes the transfer simple.