Wansheng, in the south of the Chongqing municipality near the border with Guizhou, is home to two natural attractions that make an unusual day trip. The Stone Forest is a field of ancient limestone pillars and strange rock formations formed hundreds of millions of years ago, some of which have been compared with sea creatures and fossils. Black Valley, or Heigu, is a deep, narrow canyon with cliffs, streams and walkways, a place of cool air, shade and dramatic scenery. Together they give a different flavour of Chongqing's landscape from Wulong, with fewer crowds and a less polished experience. The tour we link combines the Stone Forest and Black Valley in a day trip from the city. It is a good choice for travellers who want to see something less famous, who enjoy rock formations and gorge walks and who are comfortable with a long day. Expect a lot of walking, some stairs and variable weather, and take time to look closely at the fossils and carved textures on the stones.
How to visit
Wansheng is a few hours from Chongqing city, so a day trip starts early. Check the tour details for the pick-up point, the entry tickets, the walking time and what is included. A guide helps explain the geology, which is easy to miss without context.
What to expect
Winding paths among limestone pillars in the Stone Forest, with signs and fossil details, followed by a canyon walk in Black Valley with stairs, narrow passages and boardwalks. The gorge is cool and shaded, with damp rock and sometimes wet steps. Some activities, such as boat rides or glass walkways, may be offered at certain times, so ask about the options.
Making the most of it
Wear shoes with good grip and carry a light jacket, since the gorge is cooler than the stone forest. Bring water and snacks, and a small waterproof bag for your phone. Spring and autumn give the most comfortable temperatures, summer can be hot and wet, and winter is cool and misty.
Combine it sensibly
Wansheng is a full day on its own. If you have more time in the Chongqing region, compare it with Wulong or Jinfo Mountain, which are also nature day trips, and choose according to the kind of scenery you prefer.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day trip to an ancient limestone forest and a deep canyon, with transport arranged.
Best time
Spring and autumn for comfortable walking; summer is hot and wet.
How long
A full day, with a few hours of travel each way.
Tips
Wear shoes with good grip, carry a light jacket and bring water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature and geology lovers who want a quieter alternative to Wulong.
- Families
- Active families can enjoy the walks, though the stairs are tiring for small children.
- Couples
- Share a quiet canyon walk away from big crowds.
- Pair with
- Wulong or Jinfo Mountain on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What is the Wansheng Stone Forest?+
It is a field of ancient limestone pillars and odd rock formations, some containing marine fossils.
What is Black Valley?+
It is a deep, narrow canyon with cliffs, streams and walkways, cool and shaded even on warm days.
How far is Wansheng from Chongqing?+
It is a few hours by road, so the day trip starts early.
Is it crowded?+
It is less famous than Wulong, so it is generally quieter, though weekends and holidays attract more visitors.
Is it hard walking?+
There are stairs and uneven paths, and some wet sections in the gorge. Wear good shoes.