Shata | Crossing the Grassland Leads to the Glacier

| Crossing the grassland leads to the glacier. Shata Glacier Travel Guide **(Xinjiang · The Secret Corridor at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains)** **Shata** (also known as "Xiate") is located in Zhaosu County, Ili, Xinjiang. It is an epic canyon in the Tianshan Mountains, combining glaciers, snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands, and is praised as "one of China's most beautiful ancient trails." This is the place where Xuanzang traveled westward to obtain scriptures and a hiking paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. 🌄 1. Best Travel Time** ✅ **June to September** (Best season): - **June to July**: Wildflowers bloom across the grasslands, and the climate is cool. - **August to September**: Snow mountains are clearly visible, autumn colors begin to show, and hiking is most comfortable. **October to May (next year)**: - Winter sees heavy snow closing the mountains and the scenic area; spring thaw makes roads muddy. ⚠️ Note: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, bring rain gear. 🚗 2. How to Get There?** ### **1. Major Transportation** - **Plane/Train**: First arrive in Yining (capital of Ili Prefecture), then charter a car or take a bus to Zhaosu County (about 3 hours). - **Self-driving**: - Yining → Zhaosu (via "Yizhao Highway," accessible for vehicles under 7 seats, with stunning scenery). - Zhaosu → Shata Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours, good road conditions). 2. Transportation within the Scenic Area** - **Ticket + Shuttle Bus**: 80 RMB (includes the route from the scenic area entrance to the hot spring hotel). - **Electric Cart**: Hot spring hotel → Frog Spring (optional, 50 RMB/person). - **Hiking/Horse Riding**: Frog Spring → Glacier foot (one way about 12 km). 📸 3. Core Attractions & Activities** ### **1. Shata Canyon Easy Hike** - **Route**: Frog Spring → General’s Bridge → Flower Terrace → Glacier foot (round trip 6-8 hours). - **Highlights**: - **Flower Terrace**: Wildflowers everywhere in summer, with Muzart Snow Mountain as the backdrop. - **Glacier Terminus**: Get close to the millennia-old ice tongue (beware of falling rocks). 2. Muzart Snow Mountain** - One of the main peaks of the Tianshan Mountains (altitude 6,998 meters), a landmark of the Shata Ancient Trail, best photo spot at **General’s Bridge**. 3. Shata Ancient Trail (Adventure Level)** - 120 km long, running through the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, requires professional guides and equipment (casual tourists are advised to only experience a small part). ### **4. Hot Spring Hotel** - Natural hot springs under the snow mountains, the top choice for relaxation after hiking (reservation required). 🏠 4. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Inside the Scenic Area**: - Hot Spring Hotel (the only official accommodation, about 400 RMB/night, includes hot springs). - Nomad Yurt (near Frog Spring, about 150 RMB/person, experience nomadic life). - **Zhaosu County**: Better facilities, suitable for non-hiking visitors (e.g., Zhaosu Hotel). 🍖 5. Food Recommendations** - **Must-try**: Hand-pulled lamb, roasted buns, big plate chicken, yogurt dumplings. - **Hidden Delicacy**: "Horse Meat Naren" at Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park (local specialty noodle dish). ⚠️ 6. Precautions** 1. **Safety First**: - Glacier areas are prone to falling rocks, do not climb without permission. - Bring enough water and snacks for hiking; no supply points inside the scenic area. 2. **Unpredictable Weather**: - Daily temperature difference can reach 20°C, bring a windbreaker and sun protection. 3. **Environmental Protection**: - Take all trash with you, protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. 4. **Border Pass**: - If planning to go deep into the ancient trail, apply for a pass at your place of residence (destination fill in "Zhaosu County"). 🗺️ 7. Itinerary Suggestions** **Classic 2 days 1 night**: - **Day 1**: Yining → Zhaosu → Shata Scenic Area (stay at hot spring hotel/yurt). - **Day 2**: Easy hike to the glacier → return to Zhaosu. **In-depth 3 days 2 nights**: Add Qiongkushitai or Kalajun Grassland for a combined trip. Shata is a "geometric symphony of snow mountains and grasslands," perfect for travelers who love off-the-beaten-path wilderness. If your stamina is limited, take the electric cart to Frog Spring to experience the essence of the scenery. Be sure to check the weather before departure! 🏔️