Location & How to Get There
Ma Shan Geopark is located in Jiaozhou Bay’s Jimo District, just 7 kilometers west of the city center. The park spans four connected hills that resemble a horse’s saddle, earning it the nickname “Horseshoe Mountain.” The highest peak rises to 211 meters, making it a manageable hike for most visitors. To reach Ma Shan Geopark, drive along Blue Ridge Road (Lan’ao Lu) in Jimo—it’s about a 30-minute taxi ride from Qingdao’s downtown or take the local bus No. 2016 from Jimo City Bus Station. Parking is available near the entrance, and the area is marked clearly on maps.
Natural Wonders: Volcanic Rocks & Stone Forest
Ma Shan Geopark is famous for its andesitic lava rock, which dates back 100 million years. The rocks, colored in gray-green and brown, form steep cliffs and unusual formations. But the real showstopper is the “Stone Forest” on the southwest slope. Here, towering prism-shaped columns of rock stand like a military squad—each is about 1 meter wide and 30 meters tall. Unlike most stone forests made of basalt (which usually have 5-6 sides), Ma Shan’s columns are perfect squares, a rare geological oddity. Scientists love this spot, but you don’t need a PhD to marvel at the surreal, jungle-like rows of stone!
Hiking & Views: What to Expect
The trails at Ma Shan Geopark are well-marked and mostly flat, but bring comfy shoes—some paths get steep. A loop route takes about 1-2 hours, passing the Stone Forest, an observation deck, and a shady pavilion. On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views of Jiaozhou Bay and the Yellow Sea. For photography fans, morning light makes the red-tinged rocks glow, while sunset casts long shadows in the Stone Forest. Just watch out for bugs in summer—bring spray!
Facilities & Tips for Visitors
Ma Shan Geopark is family-friendly, with rest areas, clean bathrooms, and a small café near the entrance. Tickets cost around ¥30-50 (cheap!), and guides are available if you want deeper insight into the geology. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, especially in summer. The park gets busy on weekends, so weekdays are better if you hate crowds. If you’re staying in Qingdao, combine this with a trip to nearby Tianhou Palace or the Jimo Ancient County Tourist Area for a full day of adventure.
Why Ma Shan Stands Out
What makes Ma Shan Geopark special? It’s one of the few places worldwide where quadrilateral columnar joints (those square rock pillars) formed in andesitic rock. Most similar sites are in volcanic regions like Iceland or Hawaii, but Ma Shan’s accessibility and affordability make it a hidden gem. Even if you’re not into geology, the eerie beauty of the Stone Forest and the quiet trails feel like stepping into another world—all just an hour from Qingdao’s beaches.
So next time you’re in Shandong Province, skip the crowded mountains and head to Ma Shan Geopark. It’s not just rocks—it’s a chance to walk through Earth’s history, literally!
