The July 1st Glacier, lying in the Qilianshan Mountain Range, 130km southwest of Jiayuguan (the nearest of its kind in the world from a city), got its name because it was discovered on this date by a Sino-Soviet geological exploration team not long before the relationship between China and Soviet Russia deteriorated.
The glacier, extending from 4,300m to 5,150m above sea level, covers a total area of 5 square kilometers. The average thickness of the glacier is 78m with a maximum obliquity of less than 45 degrees, making it relatively easy for ordinary travelers to ascend. There is a well worn 5km trail that runs along the side of the glacier that is the best way to see this area, and get back in time for tea. There is also an epitaph here, of unknown origin, that the Chinese are quick to gather around for holiday snaps.
How to get there: To get to the glacier, it is possible to hire a taxi from town for about RMB600. Setting off early in the morning, you should get back to Jiayuguan in the afternoon. As an expensive alternative, CITS organizes a one-day trip, including a three-hour drive, followed by five hours hiking, and three hours driving back. The trip should cost a negotiable price of between RMB500 to RMB1,000 including a guide.
Opening hours: The attraction is open every day.
Cost: No entrance admission is charged.
Things to mind: Since the weather around the glacier is rather mercurial, you are advised to take with you an umbrella or a mackintosh, along with a thick overcoat.
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