Long Shan Lake Scenic Area

The Long Shan Lake scenic area northwest of Baishan city occupies a river valley shaped by the same volcanic geology that created Changbaishan's Tianchi lake further northeast. The lake itself is large enough for boat trips and encircled by forest — pine, birch, and poplar that change colour dramatically in autumn. Hiking trails follow the lake shore and climb into the surrounding hills.

The area is significantly less visited than Changbaishan and the facilities are modest, which is part of its appeal for visitors who want volcanic landscape and forest without the crowds of the main park. A half-day or full day here makes a worthwhile excursion from Baishan, particularly in late September and October when the autumn colours peak. The Beishan Ski Field nearby extends the area's utility into winter months.

things to do sight
A story
Long Shan Lake was created by a volcanic eruption that blocked a river valley, trapping water behind a natural dam of lava rock. The result is a lake with peculiar geology: the volcanic substrate gives the water a distinctive clarity and the rocky shoreline has the rough, broken quality of solidified lava rather than smooth sedimentary stone.