How to Explore Shandan Military Horse Ranch Like a Pro

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding across vast Chinese grasslands with snow-capped mountains in the distance, Shandan Military Horse Ranch is the place for you. Yet, 99% of travelers make avoidable mistakes that cost both time and money. Here’s a complete, first-hand guide to exploring the ranch efficiently, enjoying horseback riding safely, and capturing Instagram-worthy photos without missing a single must-see spot.

Shandan Military Horse Field

Getting There: Zhangye West to Shandan Horse Ranch

Step 1: High-Speed Train to Shandan Horse Ranch Station

The easiest way to reach the ranch is by taking a high-speed train from Zhangye West (Zhangye Xi) Station to Shandan Horse Ranch Station.

Tips for selecting seats:

Always aim for A-side window seats. The A-side faces the most scenic part of the grasslands along the route.
Avoid seats labeled DF, which face the opposite side and provide minimal views.
For example, on my journey, I left Zhangye West at 9:09 AM and arrived at Shandan Horse Ranch Station at 10:01 AM. The second-class ticket costs 36.5 RMB, and the ride takes less than an hour.

Step 2: From Station to the Ranch

Once you exit the train:

Do not panic. Right outside the station, you can find shared cars heading directly to the ranch.
A shared car costs about 50 RMB per person. If you cannot find a group, a single-person taxi also costs roughly the same.
Save the driver’s number for your return trip; it can be difficult to find a ride otherwise.
Travel time to the ranch is about 20–30 minutes.

Pro tip: If you’re driving yourself, navigating to “Shandan Royal Horse Ranch” is crucial. Avoid accidentally entering “Shandan Military Horse General Ranch,” which is a completely different location.

Shandan Military Horse Field

Entry and Tickets

At the ranch entrance:

Left window: Purchase ranch entry tickets and sightseeing bus tickets. Showing your train ticket often gives a discount.
- Entry ticket: 34 RMB/person
- Sightseeing bus: 20 RMB/person
Right window: Horse riding tickets, with four routes available. Choose based on your stamina and interest. Caution: riding can be bumpy, especially for those with back issues.

Insider tip: If you plan to visit Huaixi Town, ask at the vicinity of the General Biaoqi Statue. You can share a car for 100 RMB. Avoid electric bikes—they are slow, frequently cut off, and not worth the hassle.

Horse Riding Routes

The ranch has four horse riding routes, numbered 1–4:

Route 1: Shortest, outside the main scenic area. Ideal for first-timers or families. Duration: 20–30 minutes, price: 100 RMB.
Route 2: Medium length, outside the main area. Similar pricing.
Route 3 & 4: Longer routes, inside the scenic area, requiring both the entry ticket and horse ticket. Provides a more immersive grassland experience.

Strategy: Start with Route 1 to get a feel for horseback riding. If you feel confident, continue to Route 3 or 4 for a deeper experience.

Riding Tips

Independent Riding:
- Beginners often worry about controlling the horse. You can ride independently; no need for someone to lead unless it’s a child.
- Controls:
  - Forward: Kick lightly on the horse’s side
  - Brake: Pull both reins back
  - Turn left: Pull left rein
  - Turn right: Pull right rein
- Always hold onto the saddle rings for balance and safety.
Horse Behavior:
- Horses can speed up if handlers are rushing for the next ride. Respect the horse, and ride at a comfortable pace.
- Local horses are “Adan” breed: a cross between Shandan horses and Arabian horses, known for being calm and sturdy.
Children:
- Children can ride with a horse handler walking alongside and holding the reins. Ensure the child grips the saddle ring.
Clothing and Gear:
- Wear long pants or a skirt suitable for riding, sturdy shoes, hat, and sunglasses.
- Light clothing works for midday sun; layer up later as temperatures drop.

Shandan Military Horse Field

Scenic Highlights

General Biaoqi Camp:
- Central hub for horseback routes.
- Stop to observe thousands of horses drinking—the most iconic ranch experience. Best time: around 4:50–5:10 PM.
- Optional: Try longer horse routes to Luan Bird Lake Observation Deck for breathtaking views of the Qilian Mountains.
Luan Bird Lake Observation Deck:
- Stunning views of snow-capped peaks reflected in the lake.
- Afternoon light enhances colors.
Kulong Gorge (Kulongxia):
- Rare terrain with historical ruins. Perfect for hiking and photography.
Grassland Landscapes:
- Summer: green fields dotted with wildflowers
- Autumn: golden hues
- Winter: snow-covered plains and hills
Huaixi Town:
- Small scenic town accessible by shared car. Great for exploring if you have extra time and energy.

Ranch Transportation

Sightseeing Bus: Loops between main entrance, General Biaoqi Camp, and Luan Bird Lake Observation Deck. Stops at major attractions and horse riding zones.
Electric carts inside the park are slow and not recommended.

Tip: If you have a vehicle that fits 5 people, paying for self-drive inside the ranch may be more efficient than multiple sightseeing bus tickets.

Food Recommendations

Shandan Lamb: Try hand-pulled lamb and braised lamb dishes.
Chao Bola: Stir-fried local offal with unique flavors from Hexi Corridor.
Grass Shoots Chicken: Local free-range chicken cooked with leeks and noodles; light and savory.

Accommodation Options

Huaixi Town Resort: Snow-capped mountain backdrop, quiet in off-season. Self-drive recommended.
Shandan Ranch Hotels:
- Shandan Military Horse Ranch Hotel
- “Herdsman’s House” Lodges
- Affordable, convenient for early morning photography or horseback riding

Shandan Military Horse Field

Safety and Practical Tips

Altitude: The ranch is at 2,700 meters. Winter can be very cold; summer days are warm, nights are chilly.
Tickets: Ranch entry is free; horse rides, sightseeing buses, and special areas require tickets.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen are essential.
Riding Safety: Follow handlers’ instructions. Do not feed horses randomly.
Best Season:
- June–August: Lush green grasslands
- October: Golden autumn fields
- Winter: Snow-covered landscape, minimal tourists

Photo Tips

Clothing: Bright colors or Western-style outfits. Cowboy hats are highly photogenic.
Best Photo Spots:
- Luan Bird Lake reflection
- Huaixi Town with snow-capped mountains
- Horses drinking water in the late afternoon
Timing: Sunset or mid-afternoon for best light. Early morning for minimal crowds.

Quick Recap for a Smooth Day

Take the train from Zhangye West, sit on the A-side window seat for maximum views.
Share a car to the ranch; keep the driver’s number.
Purchase entry and bus tickets at the left window. Horse riding tickets at the right.
Begin with Route 1 horseback ride; extend to Route 3 if desired.
Visit General Biaoqi Camp for horse-drinking spectacle.
Optional: sightseeing bus or hike to Luan Bird Lake.
Enjoy local lamb dishes or river chicken.
Stay overnight in Huaixi Town resort or ranch hotel if planning an early morning shoot.
Dress in layers and bring a hat/sunglasses for comfort and style.