Taiga Forest Corridor in Kanas Lake

Taiga Forest Corridor (泰加林廊道) is located along the eastern shore of Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖) within Kanas Scenic Area (喀纳斯景区), Burqin County (布尔津县). Stretching for approximately 4.5 kilometers, it is one of the most representative showcase areas of Siberian taiga forest in China.

The corridor begins at the Kanas Lake Cruise Pier (喀纳斯湖游船码头) and extends to the Tuluke Rock Paintings (吐鲁克岩画). A wooden boardwalk follows the lakeshore, with the ever-changing waters of Kanas Lake on one side and well-preserved pristine cold-temperate coniferous forest on the other.

The taiga forest here represents the Chinese extension of the vast coniferous forests of western Siberia. Dominant tree species include Siberian larch, spruce, fir, and Korean pine, with some species classified as nationally protected Grade III plants. Visitor density is relatively low compared with the main attractions of Kanas, making the corridor particularly suitable for quiet hiking and an immersive experience of the pristine ecosystem where ancient forest and alpine lake coexist.

Main Highlights

The King of the Taiga and Giant Root Sculpture

The King of the Taiga (泰加林之王) is one of the corridor’s signature sights. The ancient tree is exceptionally large and sturdy, requiring several people to stand together to encircle its trunk.

The Giant Root Sculpture Wall (巨型根雕墙) preserves the enormous root system of a fallen tree, providing an impressive visual demonstration of the remarkable resilience and vitality of forest trees.

Further along the trail, strands of old man's beard lichen hang from the branches, while thick moss covers the forest floor. The dense vegetation and fresh mountain air create a quiet woodland environment with abundant negative oxygen ions.

Kanas Lake and Forest Boardwalk

Several waterside viewing platforms are located along the boardwalk, offering close views of Kanas Lake. The color of the lake changes with the sunlight, shifting subtly between different shades of blue and green.

When sunlight passes through gaps in the forest canopy, it creates striking shafts of Tyndall light among the trees, adding to the peaceful and atmospheric character of the trail.

From around mid-to-late September, birch and larch trees gradually turn golden yellow. The colorful autumn forest reflected against the blue-green lake creates one of the most beautiful seasonal landscapes along the corridor.

Tuluke Rock Paintings and Wildlife

At the end of the corridor are the Tuluke Rock Paintings (吐鲁克岩画), ancient rock carvings left by early inhabitants of the region. The images record scenes associated with prehistoric hunting and pastoral life, adding an important layer of cultural heritage to the surrounding natural landscape.

Wildlife can occasionally be spotted along the forest trail, including squirrels and various species of waterbirds. Visitors should observe them quietly from a distance without disturbing their natural behavior.

Practical Information

The Taiga Forest Corridor is included in the Kanas Scenic Area admission package, so no separate ticket is required. Boat rides on Kanas Lake are additional paid experiences.

Opening hours follow the operating schedule of Kanas Scenic Area during its peak season. Allow approximately 2 hours for a visit. There is no need to walk the entire 4.5-kilometer corridor; even a shorter section provides a rewarding experience of the forest and lake scenery.

Private vehicles must be parked at Jiadengyu (贾登峪). From there, take the Kanas scenic shuttle bus to the Kanas Lake Cruise Pier, then walk from the pier into the corridor.

A recommended itinerary is to take a cruise on Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖), disembark and walk through the Taiga Forest Corridor, then continue to Guanyutai Viewing Platform (观鱼台) or explore the Three Bays—Fairy Bay (神仙湾), Moon Bay (月亮湾), and Wolong Bay (卧龙湾).

Carry your identification document with you when entering the scenic area.

Travel Tips

Temperatures around the lake and in the mountain forest can be relatively low, with significant differences between day and night, so bring a windproof jacket. Mosquitoes and other insects can be common in the forest, so use both sun protection and insect repellent.

Some sections of the boardwalk can be damp and slippery, so walk carefully and wear shoes with good grip. Visitors must remain within the designated wooden boardwalk area and are strictly prohibited from leaving the trail and entering the pristine forest.

The forest ecosystem is highly fragile. Do not pick plants, step on moss, or leave any rubbish behind. Wet rocks along the lakeshore can be slippery, so do not climb over railings or approach deep-water areas. Keep children under close supervision.

If you encounter wildlife, maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.