How Long is the Tianmen Mountain Cableway?
The Tianmen Mountain Cableway, located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China, is a marvel of engineering and a breathtaking way to experience the stunning beauty of Tianmen Mountain. It holds the impressive title of the "longest passenger cableway of high mountains in the world." Let's delve deeper into the specifics of its length and other fascinating features.
Total Length and Ascent
The Tianmen Mountain Cableway stretches an impressive 7,455 meters (24,459 feet), making it a true engineering feat. To put this into perspective, that's roughly the equivalent of:
- Over 145 football fields
- About 4.6 miles
This extensive cableway doesn't just cover a vast distance; it also conquers a significant elevation change. During the ride, passengers ascend a staggering 1,279 meters (4,196 feet). To give you a comparison, that's:
- Taller than the Empire State Building (443 meters) and the Eiffel Tower (330 meters) combined
- Nearly 1.5 times the height of Burj Khalifa (828 meters)
Number of Cars and Gradient
The cableway system operates with 98 cars, ensuring a smooth flow of visitors to the summit. Each car can accommodate several passengers, allowing for breathtaking views to be shared among friends and family.
One of the most notable features of the Tianmen Mountain Cableway is its steep incline. At its steepest point, the cableway has a gradient of 37 degrees. This dramatic angle adds an element of thrill to the ride and offers passengers awe-inspiring panoramic vistas as they ascend the mountain.
Tianmen Mountain Cableway at a Glance
To summarize the key features of this record-breaking cableway:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 7,455 meters (24,459 feet) |
| Ascent | 1,279 meters (4,196 feet) |
| Number of Cars | 98 |
| Maximum Gradient | 37 degrees |
FAQs
Q1: How long does it take to ride the entire Tianmen Mountain Cableway? A1: The ride typically takes around 28-30 minutes one way.
Q2: Are there any age or health restrictions for riding the cableway? A2: While the cableway is generally safe for most people, there might be some age and health restrictions. It's always best to check with the official website or at the ticket counter for the most up-to-date information.
Q3: What are some of the things to see at the top of Tianmen Mountain after taking the cableway? A3: At the top, you'll find the breathtaking Tianmen Cave, the scenic "Heaven's Gate" stairway, stunning cliff-side walkways, and panoramic views of the surrounding park.