Changbai Waterfall and Hot Spring Trail

The Changbai Waterfall and Hot Spring Trail is a short walk on the North Slope of Changbai Mountain in Antu County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province. The waterfall drops roughly 68 m from the outlet of Heaven Lake and feeds the Songhua River, one of the major rivers of north-east China. Visitors reach the trailhead by the North Slope eco-bus, which stops at the waterfall car park. Entry is covered by the North Slope ticket and eco-bus fare, about CNY 190 combined, and private cars are not allowed beyond the gate. The walk covers about 1.5 km with around 60 m of elevation change and takes about an hour, which places it firmly in the easy category. The surface is a mix of gravel path, steps and some boardwalk, with a wet and sometimes icy stretch near the spray. Shade is limited because the route runs through open volcanic terrain with scattered conifers, so the sun and the wind are both noticeable. The first landmark is the viewing area for the falls, where the water plunges into a gorge and creates spray in warm months. Further along, a marked path passes hot-spring pools whose water emerges at high temperature and steams in cold weather, and visitors traditionally boil eggs in the springs. Standing in or bathing in the pools is not part of the standard route, and the marked path should be followed. The natural turn-around point is the end of the hot spring path, from which the way back follows the same trail to the car park. Water and snacks are usually sold near the car park, but the trail has no refuge huts, so shelter is limited to nearby visitor buildings. In winter, access to the waterfall depends on the scenic-area announcement, and ice makes the path hazardous without traction aids. In summer the trail is busy at midday, and early arrivals enjoy quieter viewing. Combining the walk with the Grand Canyon and Heaven Lake stops makes a full North Slope day.