Shennongjia is most practically reached from Yichang, the nearest large city with good rail connections. The road journey from Yichang to Muyu town at the southern reserve entrance takes three to four hours by car or bus; buses run daily. From Wuhan, allow five to six hours by a combination of high-speed rail to Yichang and onward bus or car.
A small airport at Shennongjia (Shennong Airport) has limited direct flights to Wuhan, Xi'an, and a few other cities — check schedules in advance as services are seasonal and infrequent. Renting a car in Yichang gives the most flexibility for exploring the reserve's different scenic areas; the mountain roads are good but winding.