Alpine Emerald of the West: A Guide to Tulugou National Forest Park

1.The Hidden: Emerald of the Plateau Junction

2.Nestled in Liancheng: Town, Yongdeng County, under the jurisdiction of Lanzhou, Gansu Province, Tulugou National Forest Park is a breathtaking natural sanctuary. Located at the strategic intersection of the Loess Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it is often heralded as the "Emerald of the West" due to its lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems. The park covers an area of 58.47 square kilometers, with a remarkable forest coverage rate of 79.2%, offering a stark, refreshing contrast to the arid landscapes typical of Northwest China.

Geological Splendor and High-Altitude Landscapes

The park's terrain is characterized by high-altitude mountains and deep valleys, with elevations ranging from 1,998 to 3,165 meters. These dramatic heights create a "one mountain, four seasons" vertical ecosystem where alpine meadows, virgin forests, and rocky peaks coexist. The park is particularly famous for its unique rock formations and water features, which have been sculpted by millennia of wind and water erosion.

The Legend of the White Deer

According to local folklore, a beautiful white deer once roamed these mountains. Legend says the deer eventually transformed into the rugged peaks and its spirit into the flowing mountain springs to provide water for the parched land. This myth is immortalized in the "Bairongshi" (White Deer Rock), a natural formation that resembles a deer looking back at the valley. This spiritual connection to nature adds a layer of cultural depth to the park's physical beauty.

Natural Wonders of the Canyon

3.Visitors to: Tulugou can explore several distinct geological landmarks:

• 4.Tianheyuan (Source of the Sky River): A massive rock wall shaped like a giant sun, showcasing the power of natural erosion.
• 5.Santanboshui: A steep canyon section featuring a spectacular three-tiered waterfall system.
• 6.Tianmen (Sky Gate): A colossal natural rock archway that serves as a majestic "portal" at the canyon's exit.