Jade Dragon Snow Mountain



Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. Consisting of
13 peaks, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain stretches a length of 35 kilometers and a width of 20
kilometers. Looking from Lijiang Old Town in the south which is 15 kilometers away, the snow-covered
and fog-enlaced mountain resembles a jade dragon flying in the clouds, hence, the name Jade
Dragon Snow Mountain.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is with snow capped all year round. Its highest peak is named
Shanzidou rising 5,596 meters above sea level. The view of the massif from the gardens at the Black
Dragon Pool in Lijiang is noted as one of China's finest views. The far side of the mountain forms one
side of Tiger Leaping Gorge.

About Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, there is an archaic legend gone down for Naxi People: Once upon a time, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and
Haba Snow Mountain were twins. They had lived on panning in Golden Sand River until one day an evil fiend usurped the river. The brothers were
very brave and had a fierce fight with the fiend, Haba died in the fight and Jade Dragon drove off the fiend after wearing out 13 swords. For guarding
the people and preventing the return of the fiend, Jade Dragon held the 13 swords in hands day and night. As time passed, the brothers had turned
into the two snow mountains, and the 13 swords had become the 13 peaks.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has rich vegetation coverage, featuring distinct and complete alpine vertical ecosystem from subtropical zone to frigid
zone. Still heavily forested, the mountain bursts into bloom every spring with camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas. In autumn, some of the pine
trees turn amber yellow, while the deciduous trees transmute their green leaves into patches of bright yellow, orange, and scarlet.

Hiking trails exist and are highly recommended, but the majority of visitors avail themselves of three
chairlift lines that provide access to the retreating glacier and three designated scenic spots: Dry Sea
Meadow, a large meadow which is now home to the world's highest golf course Spruce Meadow where
you can get a great view of the glacier and go horseback riding at 4,506 meters above sea level; and Yak
Meadow, which features breathtaking views and access to a number of trails.