About
The Changkong Plank Walk, also known as the Sky Plank Walk or Cliffside Plank Road, is a narrow path of wooden planks fixed to the face of a cliff on Mount Huashan, near Huayin City in Shaanxi Province, China. It sits at over 2,000 meters above sea level, close to the East Peak of the mountain, and is found at the address East Peak, Mount Huashan, Huayin City, Shaanxi Province 714200.
The walk is one of the world's most dangerous hiking trails, and it is a visit for those who are comfortable with heights and with exposed ground. The planks are bolted directly to the rock, so the path hangs over a steep drop. Visitors are required to wear safety harnesses, and the route calls for extreme caution at every step.
What to expect
- A landmark of the mountain: the plank path is one of the most talked-about features of Mount Huashan, and it is the reason many hikers come to the area.
- Exposed, demanding terrain: the path is narrow and open, with wide views and a sheer drop beside you.
- Safety first: a harness is required, and it is wise to take the instructions on site seriously and to move slowly.
Planning your visit
Because the walk is high and exposed, it suits visitors who are physically fit and who are not troubled by vertigo. Anyone who feels unsure should think carefully before setting out, and it is worth travelling with a companion who can keep pace. Mount Huashan itself is the wider setting for the walk, so the path is best seen as one part of a day spent exploring the peaks and trails of the mountain.