Location & Accessibility
Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit sits in the northern part of Chongqing, about 30 minutes by car from the city’s central areas. It’s nestled near the Yubei Airport, making it super convenient for travelers arriving by plane. If you’re coming from downtown, take Metro Line 3 to Huilai Station and switch to a local bus—locals often use apps like Didi (China’s Uber) for direct rides. The park is surrounded by hills, so expect a scenic drive with twists and turns!
Getting There: Transport Tips
For visitors staying in Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit’s vicinity, self-driving is easiest. Parking is free and plentiful. Public transport users can take Bus 685 from Jiefangbei (downtown) to the park’s entrance. Taxis are affordable too, but tell the driver to navigate via the park’s main road—some GPS routes might send you through narrow village paths!
Natural Wonders: The Pit’s Magic
The heart of Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit is its massive, bowl-shaped mine. Once a limestone quarry, it’s now a lush amphitheater of cliffs and greenery. Walk along the rim for bird’s-eye views of the pit’s layers, or descend spiral stairs to the lake below. In spring, wildflowers blanket the slopes, while winter mornings might gift you fog swirling around the pit’s edges. Sunset here? Absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Human Stories: From Mine to Park
This spot wasn’t always a tourist haven. Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit was once a busy mining site, supplying stones for Chongqing’s skyscrapers. Abandoned equipment, like rusty cranes and drills, are intentionally left as art pieces. A small museum inside the park shows black-and-white photos of workers, giving context to the area’s gritty past. It’s a cool mix of rugged history and nature’s revenge—vines choking old machinery, literally.
Practical Stuff: What’s On Site?
The park is surprisingly tourist-friendly. Near Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit’s entrance, you’ll find cafes serving Sichuan-style snacks (try the spicy noodles!) and clean restrooms. Rent a bike to loop around the park’s 5km trail, or grab a map from the visitor center. There’s even a kids’ play area with rope bridges and climbing nets—perfect for families. Just bring cash; not all vendors take cards.
The Experience: What to Do
Start at the observation deck for a panoramic shot of Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit’s depth. Then hike down to the lake—it’s steep but worth it. Kayaking on the calm waters feels surreal, surrounded by towering rock walls. At night, the park lights up the pit’s rim with colorful LEDs, turning it into a giant, glowing cave. For adrenaline junkies, there’s a zip line that sends you flying over the pit’s edge. Wear comfy shoes; those steps aren’t kind to heels!
Final Tips: Make the Most of It
Go early! Morning light softens the pit’s shadows, and you’ll beat the crowds. Bring sunscreen (even in winter) and water—there’s no shade on the upper trails. If you’re short on time, focus on the lake and observation deck; they pack the biggest punch. And yes, Yubei Mining Park No. 11 Pit is still a hidden gem, so enjoy it before everyone catches on!