The word "stunning" doesn't even do this place justice

Xia Ta (also known as Qiapu Canyon) was one of our favorite destinations during our Xinjiang trip. Imagine hiking through cool mountain valleys with vast stretches of wildflowers blanketing the riverbanks, traversing forests and stepping across grasslands, while the Xue Lian Peak snow-capped mountain range silently towers before you. If nature had superpowers, I believe it would be this kind of soul-healing energy. Located in Zhaosu County, Ili, Xinjiang near the Tianshan Mountain range, Xia Ta once served as an ancient transportation post between Ili and Aksu. The scenic route in Xia Ta is divided into three sections. The first section takes you from the main gate to Hot Spring Hotel via shuttle bus (round-trip ticket including entrance fee: 80 RMB/person, about 50 minutes ride) with stops at three scenic spots: Turtle Rock, Lovers' Valley, and Quicksand Waterfall. The second section is the 7km flat forest trail from Hot Spring Hotel to General's Bridge - we recommend taking the electric cart (one-way 15-20 minutes, round-trip 30 RMB/person). The third section is the 4km hiking route from General's Bridge to Flower Terrace, which is the absolute highlight of Xia Ta. Along this path, you'll pass four numbered Kala houses before reaching the breathtaking Flower Terrace. At General's Bridge, don't miss taking that perfect shot of snow-capped mountains, forests, and streams in one frame. From here, you'll start walking on dirt paths. After passing Kala House No. 2, you'll lose phone signal - a perfect opportunity to put away your device and fully immerse in the scenery. The trail will lead you through woods, fallen logs, streams, and meadows, revealing the refreshing summer beauty of this lush green valley.