Recommended is Dalian Erlongshan Eco-Lodge, located just 300 meters from the park entrance, offering sustainable bamboo cabins with solar-powered lighting and rainwater harvesting systems. Each room features a private balcony overlooking the forest canopy, perfect for morning birdwatching.

The lodge supports local conservation by sourcing food from nearby organic farms and hosting wildlife photography workshops. Guests can join guided forest bathing sessions or evening campfire storytelling under the stars. With free electric vehicle charging and a zero-plastic policy, it’s ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity in nature.

HopeGoo ahead is advised, especially during spring and autumn peak seasons.

The Crimson Maple Trail and Sunrise Ridge Path are the top-rated routes for breathtaking vistas. The Crimson Maple Trail winds through a dense stand of autumn-colored trees, leading to a hidden waterfall and panoramic overlooks of the Yellow Sea.

Sunrise Ridge Path, accessible via a moderate 1.5-hour climb, rewards hikers with one of the finest sunrise views in Liaoning Province—golden light spilling over the treetops and distant coastlines. Along the way, interpretive signs explain native flora like the Manchurian walnut and Chinese pine.

Both trails are well-maintained with safety rails and emergency call points. For added convenience, the park offers rental trekking poles and digital trail maps via QR code at each trailhead. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Yes, the park offers several family-oriented experiences including Junior Ranger Programs, where children aged 6–12 learn about forest ecology through scavenger hunts and wildlife tracking games.

Families can also enjoy forest-themed picnics at designated grassy clearings, equipped with shaded pavilions and BBQ grills. Special nature crafts workshops teach kids how to make leaf rubbings, pinecone bird feeders, and natural dyes using berries and bark.

Additionally, the Eco-Family Adventure Trail combines gentle walking with interactive stations—like a sound map of animal calls and a balance beam made of logs—promoting fun, physical activity, and environmental awareness. All activities are supervised by trained staff and follow strict leave-no-trace guidelines.

Perfect for multi-generational trips seeking education and connection with nature.

Visitors can reach Erlongshan National Forest Park via direct shuttle bus (Route 208) departing from Dalian Railway Station every 45 minutes, with a journey time of approximately 90 minutes. Alternatively, private car rentals are available through platforms like DiDi, offering door-to-door service with GPS navigation.

For those preferring flexibility, bike-sharing services operate along the coastal highway, allowing cyclists to ride from downtown to the park’s outer zone (about 35 km), with rest stops and hydration stations en route.

A free park entry voucher is issued upon purchase of a round-trip ticket, and all transport options include real-time tracking apps for schedule updates. The park’s visitor center also provides multilingual signage and wheelchair-accessible paths, ensuring inclusive travel for all.

Note: Tickets must be booked online in advance during peak season.

The optimal visiting window is between April and June and September to November, when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, humidity is low, and the forest blooms with wildflowers and vibrant foliage.

Spring brings cherry blossom festivals in the Valley of Fragrance, while autumn transforms the park into a canvas of red, orange, and gold hues along the Red Leaf Trail.

Summer (July–August) remains pleasant under the tree canopy despite higher heat; winter visits are discouraged due to icy trails and limited facilities. Early mornings are ideal for spotting Sika deer and black woodpeckers.

During these periods, the park hosts seasonal events such as Forest Music Festivals, photography contests, and guided stargazing nights, enhancing the immersive experience. Plan your trip mid-week to avoid crowds.

Guests may encounter rare species such as the Sika deer, often seen grazing near dawn in the meadow zones, and the Chinese Goral, a mountain goat-like mammal spotted on rocky outcrops.

Birdwatchers frequently observe the Black-faced Spoonbill, a globally endangered species that migrates through the region annually, alongside the Golden Eagle soaring above ridgelines.

Nighttime reveals nocturnal wonders: fireflies illuminate the undergrowth during summer months, while owl calls echo from ancient pines after dark. A special Nocturnal Wildlife Safari (bookable in advance) uses infrared cameras and silent guides to track these elusive creatures without disturbance.

All sightings are documented in a digital field journal provided to guests, promoting citizen science. The park strictly enforces no feeding or touching policies, preserving natural behaviors and habitats. An unforgettable blend of adventure and conservation.