Urumqi Glacier No. 1
Urumqi Glacier No. 1, located in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang, China, is Asia’s closest major glacier to a city (just 120 km from Urumqi). Known as the "Cradle of Ice," it is a critical research site for climate science and a haven for adventure seekers. Standing at 4,489 meters above sea level, the glacier features jagged crevasses, turquoise meltwater lakes, and panoramic views of the Tianshan peaks. Designated a "National Geological Park" in 2013, it merges alpine ecology, Tibetan-influenced culture, and extreme adventure, offering glacier treks, scientific observation stations, and stunning vistas of the Gobi Desert’s edge.
Historical Overview
1958: Chinese scientists established the first glacial research station here, studying climate change and water resources.
1980s: The glacier became a tourist attraction, with cable cars and trails constructed.
2000s: Declared a protected zone due to rapid retreat (shrank by 22% from 1962–2009).
2013: Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its unique high-altitude ecosystems.
2021: Restricted access imposed to preserve fragile ice; eco-tours now require guided permits.
Structural Layout
The park spans 25 km² and is divided into three zones:
- West Zone (Research & Adventure)
Glacier Observation Station: Interactive exhibits on climate science and glacial retreat.
Ice Crevasse Trail: A 1.5 km guided hike through icy tunnels (helmets/crampons provided).
Meltwater Lake: A turquoise pool fed by glacial runoff, surrounded by wild roses and edelweiss.
- Central Zone (Nature & Scenic)
Alpine Meadow: A 3 km boardwalk through pastures with yaks and Tibetan prayer flags.
Snow Leopard Viewpoint: Remote cameras sometimes capture endangered cats (rare sightings).
Skywalk Bridge: A 200m suspension bridge over a glacial valley (altitude 4,200m).
- East Zone (Cultural & Eco-Leisure)
Tibetan Nomad Camp: Visit yurts, taste yak butter tea, and learn traditional herding.
Herbal Garden: Tibetan medicinal plants like snow lotus and rhodiola.
Sunset Overlook: A 360° viewpoint of the Tianshan peaks and Gobi Desert horizon.
- Supporting Structures
Glacier Shuttle: A 4x4 bus to the base camp (4,080m; oxygen available for altitude sickness).
Research Café: Serves local qima (roasted barley tea) and glacier-themed desserts.
Emergency Shelter: For sudden weather changes (equipped with satellite phones).
Major Attractions
Glacier No. 1: Trek 2 km to touch the ice wall (150m thick in places).
Ice Cave: Explore a 30m-long natural tunnel (seasonal; closes in winter).
Tianshan Peak: Summit hike (5,289m) for advanced climbers (permit required).
Nomad Song Festival: Held in July, featuring traditional throat singing and horse races.
Suggested Itineraries
- Half-Day Glacier Adventure (4–5 hours)
Morning: Glacier Shuttle → Ice Crevasse Trail → Meltwater Lake → Lunch at Research Café (yak burgers).
Afternoon: Skywalk Bridge → Tibetan Nomad Camp → Sunset Overlook.
Highlights: Glacier trekking, alpine meadows, and cultural interactions.
- Full-Day Science & Nature Tour (7–9 hours)
Morning: Glacier Observation Station → Ice Cave → Tianshan Peak Viewpoint.
Afternoon: Herbal Garden Tour → Nomad Camp → Sunset Overlook.
Evening: Stargazing at the research station (telescopes provided).
Highlights: Climate science, herbalism, and night skies.
- Two-Day Summit Expedition
Day 1:
Morning: Base camp hike → Glacier trekking → Altitude acclimatization walk.
Afternoon: Tibetan medicine workshop → Lunch at Nomad Camp (yogurt soup).
Evening: Moonlit glacier photography.
Day 2:
Morning: Summit climb (guided) → Glacier ice sampling.
Afternoon: Research station tour → Astronomy session.
Evening: Campfire at base camp (Tibetan folk dances).
Highlights: Mountaineering, glacial research, and cultural immersion.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via WeChat (search "Urumqi Glacier Park") or Ctrip (7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at the base camp (queues peak 9 AM–12 PM).
- Prices:
Peak Season (June–September): Adults ¥280, Students/Seniors ¥180.
Glacier Shuttle: ¥150 round-trip.
Guided Trek: ¥300 (includes gear).
Off-Season (October–May): 50% discount (glacier access restricted).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and scientists (with ID).
Transportation
By Car: 2.5-hour drive from Urumqi (rental cars available at the airport).
By Bus: Take the "Glacier Express" from Urumqi South Station (¥50, 3 hours).
By Taxi: ¥400 one-way from Urumqi (negotiate return trip).
Departure: Exit via East Zone to Heavenly Lake (Tianshan) or West Zone to Gobi Desert tours.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–1 PM (tour groups); visit 8–10 AM or 4–6 PM.
Crowds: Weekends and Chinese holidays (e.g., National Day) are packed; weekdays are calmer.
Weather: Summer (June–August) is best for trekking; winter (December–February) for ice art festivals.
- Essentials:
Wear thermal layers and crampons (trails are icy).
Bring sunscreen (UV levels are high at altitude).
Photography allowed (no drones near research zones).
Prohibited Items: Open fires, plastic bottles, and drones.
Insider Tip: Combine a visit with Heavenly Lake (1-hour drive) for Tibetan monasteries or Turpan (3-hour drive) for ancient Silk Road ruins.
