Why study geology at Fanjingshan
Fanjingshan is one of the older areas south of the Yellow River to rise from the sea, preserving strata and landforms formed roughly one billion to 1.4 billion years ago. Lone peaks, sheer cliffs and deep gorges make it a three-dimensional geology textbook.
The Golden Knife Gorge
The Golden Knife Gorge is a great fissure running from the summit of Red Cloud Golden Peak down to mid-height, like a knife-cut, splitting the pinnacle in two; its walls are sheer and only a sliver can be climbed, with a flying bridge joining the two tops. Its formation is closely tied to the well-developed vertical joints in the rock and long weathering and erosion.
Wanbao Rock
Wanbao Rock is a classic basal conglomerate: pebbles of many sizes and shapes, named for their treasure-like variety and the rich plants that grow on it. The angular unconformity between this conglomerate and the older strata below records Fanjingshan's long, complex geological history and is seen as a key marker of the ancient strata here.
What to look for
- Note the near-horizontal bedding and the well-developed vertical joints;
- See how top-heavy stones like Mushroom Rock and sheer lone peaks were carved by weathering and erosion;
- Along the way, read the gorges and waterfalls as the long work of water and structure.
Viewing note
Geological sights lie along the trails and on the summit — view within open areas, do not climb the rocks or chip off specimens, and leave this billion-year heritage for those who come after.
