Golmud Populus Euphratica Forest
格尔木胡杨林
Said to be the highest populus euphratica forest in the world, located about 50–60 km west of the city along the Tuolahai River. The whole forest turns golden in autumn.
The Golmud Populus Euphratica Forest lies in the Tuolahai area, about 2,800 metres above sea level, west of the city. It is Qinghai's only natural populus euphratica forest and is said to be the highest in the world. It is a provincial-level nature reserve. The seasonal Tuolahai River winds through the sand, with populus euphratica growing alongside tamarisk and saxaul. From late September to mid-October, the leaves turn golden, and the scenery is best in backlight and at dawn and dusk. Facilities are basic, and the open areas are generally free. Visitors need to drive or hire a vehicle to get there, a journey of about one hour. Inside the reserve, do not light fires or break branches, and take care to avoid getting stuck on sandy stretches.
Opening hours
All day