Yellow Dragon Cave Park (Huanglong Cave)
Explore the subterranean wonders of Crystal Cave, a marble solutional cave with stunning calcite formations and an underground river.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Yellow Dragon Cave Park (Huanglong Cave)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the subterranean wonders of Crystal Cave, a marble solutional cave with stunning calcite formations and an underground river.
"A must-see natural wonder with breathtaking formations and informative tours!"
🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Book your Crystal Cave tickets online well in advance to guarantee your spot.
🚗 Arrive Early
Give yourself at least 30-45 mins before your tour for parking and entry. Don't be late!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Formations
Inside the cave
Marvel at the stunning and intricate calcite formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that have formed over millennia.
Underground River
Within the cave system
Witness the gentle flow of an underground river that adds to the cave's mystical atmosphere and geological significance.
Unique Ecosystem
Cave environment
Discover the specialized flora and fauna adapted to the cool, dark, and humid conditions of this subterranean world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allow Ample Travel Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Book your Crystal Cave tickets online well in advance to guarantee your spot.
🚗 Arrive Early
Give yourself at least 30-45 mins before your tour for parking and entry. Don't be late!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floor can be uneven and damp. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Cave temperatures are consistently cool, around 45°F (7°C), year-round. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead Online
Tours sell out fast! Book your Crystal Cave tickets online well in advance to guarantee your spot.
🚗 Arrive Early
Give yourself at least 30-45 mins before your tour for parking and entry. Don't be late!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The cave floor can be uneven and damp. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
🧥 Bring a Light Jacket
Cave temperatures are consistently cool, around 45°F (7°C), year-round. :cloud:
📸 Camera Ready
Capture the stunning formations, but be mindful of lighting conditions and any photography restrictions. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Crystal Cave for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations. The guided tours are informative and enhance the experience. However, some find the booking process and access logistics a bit challenging, emphasizing the need for advance planning and early arrival.
"Small beautiful garden/temple with a little pond and beautiful little waterfall."
shayan
"Nice tranquil place where locals hang out playing hacky sack, dancing, doing tai chi, and singing."
Agent Doppleganger
"It's beautiful. You started from here, climbed the hill, and finally you reached the West Lake!"
Wenjie Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crystal Cave is located off Generals Highway in Sequoia National Park. Access requires driving through the park, which has an entrance fee. The road to the cave is narrow and winding, so allow ample time for travel.
Yes, there is a parking area near the cave entrance. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and weekends. Arriving early is crucial.
Currently, there is no public transportation directly to Crystal Cave. Access is primarily by private vehicle.
The road to Crystal Cave is paved but narrow and winding, with some steep grades. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers.
During the operating season, a shuttle service may be available from designated parking areas within Sequoia National Park to the cave entrance. Check the park's official website for current shuttle information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Sequoia National Park, and then a separate fee for the Crystal Cave tour. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Sequoia National Park website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Crystal Cave tour tickets online in advance, as they often sell out. You can purchase them through the park's official concessionaire or website.
Crystal Cave typically operates seasonally, usually from late spring through early fall. Hours can vary, so consult the Sequoia National Park website for the exact operating dates and times.
While some tickets might be available at the cave entrance on rare occasions, it is not reliable. Booking in advance online is the only way to guarantee entry.
The cave tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Visitors with mobility issues, heart conditions, or claustrophobia should consult with park staff before booking. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour of Crystal Cave typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, covering a mile of paved trails within the cave.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction as the cave floor can be damp and uneven. Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the cave temperature is a constant 45°F (7°C).
Crystal Cave is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to the uneven terrain and stairs within the cave.
Photography is generally allowed inside Crystal Cave, but tripods and flash photography may be restricted to protect the formations and other visitors. Always check for posted signs or ask your guide. :camerawithflash:
Restrooms are available near the Crystal Cave entrance and parking area. There are no restrooms inside the cave itself. :toilet:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly at Crystal Cave. You'll need to bring your own snacks and water or plan to eat at facilities located in other areas of Sequoia National Park, such as Lodgepole or Grant Grove. :forkandknife:
Food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the cave to help preserve its delicate environment. It's best to consume them before or after your tour. :noentrysign:
Yes, there are dining options within Sequoia National Park, such as the Lodgepole Market & Deli and the Wuksachi Lodge Dining Room. These are located a drive away from Crystal Cave. :restaurant:
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn in Crystal Cave offers a unique photographic opportunity, from grand chambers to delicate formations. Focus on capturing the scale and intricate details of the calcite deposits. :camerawithflash:
Flash photography is often prohibited inside Crystal Cave to protect the delicate cave formations from heat and light damage. Always check for signage or ask your guide. :no_flash:
Due to low light, use a tripod if permitted, a wider aperture, and a higher ISO. Experiment with long exposures to capture the cave's ambiance. :iphone:
Drones are prohibited within Sequoia National Park, including at Crystal Cave, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. :drone:
Selfie sticks may be restricted inside the cave to ensure the safety of other visitors and the cave formations. It's best to avoid them or check park regulations. :manraisinghand:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Book tickets well in advance as tours fill up quickly. Ensure children wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the cave floor can be slippery. Bring a light jacket for everyone, as the cave is consistently cool. While photography is usually allowed, avoid flash to protect the formations and other visitors.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Consider combining your cave visit with other hikes in the park. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. Check the park's website for trail conditions and other points of interest near Crystal Cave.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Geology of Crystal Cave
Visitors are guided through a mile of the cave's accessible passages, revealing a diverse array of formations. These include draperies, soda straws, and flowstones, each with its unique shape and texture. The cave's environment is remarkably stable, with a constant temperature of around 45°F (7°C) and high humidity, which are crucial for the continued growth and preservation of these natural wonders.
Sequoia National Park's geology is complex, and Crystal Cave is a prime example of its subterranean beauty. The cave was discovered in 1918 and has been a popular destination for guided tours since the 1920s, offering a glimpse into a world shaped by water and time. The reopening after a four-year closure due to fire damage was a significant event for the park.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Beyond ticketing, allow ample travel time. The drive to the cave within Sequoia National Park can be lengthy due to winding roads and potential traffic. Visitors recommend arriving at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled tour to account for parking and the walk to the cave entrance.
While inside the cave, remember that photography is usually permitted but tripods and flash may be restricted. Respect the delicate formations and follow your guide's instructions. The experience is about appreciating the natural beauty, so be present and soak it all in.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit