Autumn winds sweep across the northern foothills of the Qinling Mountains, painting mountain forests in rich, layered hues. Gurgling streams and melodious bird songs make it an ideal season to get close to nature.
Below are four well‑regulated scenic sites in the Qinling Mountains featuring spectacular views and complete supporting facilities. While feasting on mountain scenery, visitors can also protect local ecosystems and enjoy safe trips. Follow the colorful autumn foliage and set off for a pleasant rendezvous with the Qinling Mountains.
Taiping National Forest Park
Nestled in the Taipingyu Valley of Huyi District, Xi’an, Taiping National Forest Park has long been renowned for its picturesque landscapes, with a forest coverage rate as high as 96 percent.
At this time of year, valleys are draped in autumn foliage. Red maples and ginkgo trees show shifting shades of red, yellow, orange and green.
Waterfalls tumble down mountain cliffs, with the largest one dropping over 100 meters. Crystal‑clear pools lie beneath the waterfalls. When sunlight filters through water mist, visitors may catch sight of rainbows.
Hike along mountain trails amid the roar of falling water and rustling woods, surrounded by gorgeous fall foliage. You don’t need to travel far to enjoy Xi’an’s breathtaking red‑leaf views.
Taiping National Forest Park
Zhuque National Forest Park
Situated on the upper reaches of the Donglao River, Zhuque National Forest Park is one of the core components of the Qinling Zhongnanshan UNESCO Global Geopark and is widely known as a natural oxygen bar.
Broad‑leaved trees are tinted with warm autumn colors, with golden foliage spreading across gullies, while evergreen coniferous forests stand tall, creating striking color contrasts.
The park boasts well‑planned hiking trail systems. Wander along woodland paths and take in grand Qinling mountain vistas, immersing yourself in the tranquility and romance of the wilderness.
Zhuque National Forest Park
Nanwutai Scenic Area of Zhongnanshan Mountain
Located in Chang’an District and anciently named Taiyi Mountain, Nanwutai Scenic Area is a national AAAA‑rated tourist attraction. It derives its name from five peaks lined up along its summit.
Well‑trimmed stone forest steps are covered with colorful fallen leaves. As you climb uphill, golden ginkgoes and crimson maples come into view. Sunlight filters through tree branches, casting dappled shadows across the ground.
After rainfall clears up, visitors may witness the spectacular “Great Protective Array” — surging sea‑of‑clouds rolling over mountain ridges, rendering mountain vistas even more magnificent.
Nanwutai Scenic Area of Zhongnanshan Mountain
Cuihua Mountain National Geopark
A national AAAA‑rated scenic spot, Cuihua Mountain is famous for its rare rock‑avalanche landforms. Home to a host of distinctive geological sights, it is hailed as a “museum of geological landforms”.
As winter approaches, mountain trees don vibrant autumn finery. Red leaves blaze like flames, and yellow foliage shimmers under sunlight, creating poetic scenes in gentle breezes. The serene Tianchi Lake rests among mountains like a piece of jasper. The Wind Cave and Ice Cave, with their unique micro‑temperatures, herald the arrival of winter. Boulder seas piled with massive rocks and jagged remnant peaks recount millions of years of geological evolution of the Qinling Mountains.
Cuihua Mountain National Geopark
Every rock, plant and tree of the Qinling Mountains represents our shared ecological wealth. Such natural beauty deserves tender care from every visitor.
The Qinling Mountains constitute a solid ecological barrier for Xi’an, and protecting the mountains is our shared responsibility. Please engage with nature in a civilized, compliant and respectful manner. While admiring the splendid mountain scenery, let us fulfill our commitment to the harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.