Located less than 10 kilometers from Dongli Ancient Village, the Gudong Waterfalls are part of the 4A-rated scenic area of the Li River Gudong Scenic Spot. This remarkable destination is known for having the only climbable waterfalls in the entire country, providing a one-of-a-kind adventure for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a fun family outing, the Gudong Waterfalls offer a unique experience that combines nature, excitement, and a touch of challenge.
Climbing the Waterfalls
The Gudong Waterfalls feature a total of six tiers, each presenting a distinct climbing challenge. Here are some important guidelines for climbers:
- Age and Height Restrictions:
- Children under 14 years old or shorter than 1.5 meters are not allowed to climb the first tier.
- Children under 10 years old are prohibited from climbing the sixth tier.
- There are no specific restrictions for the other tiers, making them accessible for most visitors.
- Alternatives for Non-Climbers: If climbing isn’t your thing, you can opt for the dry path that runs alongside the waterfall route, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the climb.
Fees and Additional Costs
To plan your visit, here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:
- Entrance Fee: The ticket price is 55 RMB per person. Children under 6 years old or those shorter than 1.2 meters can enter for free.
- Bamboo Rafting: 10 RMB per person.
- Mini Train Ride: 10 RMB per person (optional, can help you skip part of the walking path).
- Climbing Equipment Package: 15 RMB per person, which includes a helmet, disposable raincoat, disposable grass shoes, and a waterproof phone pouch (a helmet and grass shoes are essential).
- Cableway Down: 20 RMB per person.
- Downhill Slide Train: 50 RMB per vehicle, accommodating one adult and one child (the child must be shorter than 1.4 meters and weigh under 125 kg).
Suggested Route
Here’s a suggested itinerary for your visit to Gudong Waterfalls:
- Entrance: Begin your journey at the entrance.
- Transportation: Choose to either take the bamboo raft or the mini train, or simply walk to the climbing equipment area.
- Equipment Pickup: Collect your climbing tools and prepare for the adventure ahead.
- First Tier: After about a 10-minute walk, arrive at the first tier. If you cannot climb, you can take the adjacent dry path.
- Continue Climbing: Proceed through the second, third, fourth, and fifth tiers until you reach the sixth tier.
- Return Journey: After enjoying the waterfalls, make your way back up the mountain to the free suspension bridge.
- Descent: Choose between the cableway down or the downhill slide train.
- Exit: Complete your adventure at the foot of the mountain.
Time Management
The entire experience, including climbing, playing in the water, walking across the suspension bridge, and descending, typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. Plan accordingly to fully enjoy your visit without rushing.
Transportation Options
You can drive to the Gudong Waterfalls or hire a car for convenience. If you’re staying in Dongli Ancient Village, the bus ride takes about 20 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Pack Light: It’s best not to bring too many belongings up the mountain. There are food and water options available, albeit at slightly higher prices. If you do carry a backpack, a raincoat is advisable. In the summer heat, it can feel quite humid, so packing light is a good idea.
- Footwear Matters: Ensure that the grass shoes fit well, as they are designed to prevent slipping on the wet rocks. Surprisingly, they perform well even when wet. For families with young children, consider the smallest size available for comfort and safety.
- Supervise Children: When climbing waterfalls, ensure that children are kept safe, especially when playing in water. Choose calmer spots away from crowds to avoid accidents.
- Bring Your Own Shoes: It’s advisable to carry your regular shoes with you rather than storing them at the entrance. After climbing, you can quickly change back into your comfortable shoes, as walking down the mountain in wet grass shoes may be uncomfortable, especially for children.
- Transportation Choices: The cableway and slide train can be taken based on your preference. Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes for these rides. Walking down takes approximately half an hour.
- Plan for the Day: Follow a one-way route up and down the mountain. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes for a change and a water gun for kids to enjoy in the streams along the way. The Gudong Waterfalls are perfect for family bonding and fun!