The Rock Quarry, Chiang Mai

Those visiting or living in Chiang Mai and looking to get off the beaten track are sure to enjoy a day at the Hang Dong rock quarry. Tailored for both the adventurous dare-devil as well as those looking for a relaxing escape set amongst some of the most beautiful and peaceful surroundings the region has to offer, this abandoned quarry, which was once used for digging up minerals, has now been transformed into a breathtaking swim hole carved out of soft umber burnt clay  and home to the cleanest and warmest water  that nature has to offer. Upon entrance you will be greeted by a jaw dropping view with craggy and sloped rock formations mounted over  cool blue or emerald green waters (depending on the time of day you arrive, the sun and the sky play magical tricks when reflected off the earthy rock tones and clear, vibrant aquatics). Beyond this and stretching as far as the eye can see lay the wooly and picturesque forests of Chiang Mai province framed upon the horizon by Northern Thailand’s boastfully epic blue mountain ranges. Picture the Grand Canyon filled with Evian water, reflecting all that is beautiful upwards and back towards you as you screw up the courage to dive into the sublimity of it all.

And dive you may, as the perimeter boast no less than 6 daring jumping off points from where one can test their bravery and comfort with heights. Local estimates put the highest jump at an Olympic pool height of 15 meters,  and once you’ve taken the long walk along the rocky corridor and a short but challenging climb to meet the plateau in plain view of all to see, the worst challenge you may be faced with is the embarrassing prospect of turning around and climbing back down while being berated by your friends as ‘chicken.’  Those seeking a more mild hearted thrill can choose from the 10, 5, or even 2 meter jump strategically located at different points along the edges of the  ridge, or simply walk in at the lowest point and enjoy a delightful bathe amongst the soft and cool rocks.

One of the more delightful aspects of the trip may be the fact that is not congested with the noisy tourists that pop through Chiang Mai for a day or two to ride the elephants and trek the wilderness in droves of 20 or 30. Here local young Thai’s mix with respectful expats picnicking and reveling in a blessedly new experience after they had thought they’d seen all that the area had to offer. The traditional Thai restaurant overlooking the scene-scape, as well as the small hut inhabited by the accommodating and friendly elderly Thai man (be sure to offer him a beer or a token of gratitude, and above all else respect his surroundings) make the experience all the much more charming.

The Hang Dong rock quarry is about a 40 minute bike / songthaew drive  from Chiang Mai, heading  south along the canal road highway (Hwy 121) from Huay Kaew road and keep driving until you are about 10 minutes past Hang Dong. Keep your eye out for the green HANG DONG GOLF COURSE sign and turn right on the small bridge directly after the PT gas station on your left hand side. Follow the road until it forks, and be sure to take the left fork. Allow for at least five hours including the drive and full enjoyment of the day. Enjoy!