Songping Valley
松坪沟
High-mountain lakes formed by the Diexi earthquake. Changhai, Mohai, Bailahai and Wucai Pond string together along an emerald gorge.
Songping Valley lies on a tributary of the Min River, west of Diexi town. The 1933 earthquake triggered landslides that blocked the river and formed more than ten lakes, including Changhai, Mohai, Bailahai and Wucai Pond. The water reflects snowy peaks and forest, earning the valley the nickname 'Little Jiuzhaigou'. Within the valley are Qiang villages and viewing trails, and the autumn foliage is especially striking. Songping Valley and the Diexi Lakes together form the Diexi·Songping Valley Scenic Area. Ticket and sightseeing bus prices follow the scenic area's announcements. The valley is about 75 km from Maoxian county town on winding mountain roads, so it is best to drive or hire a car and visit the Diexi Lakes on the same day.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:30 (check scenic area notices)
Nearby sights
- Baila Qiang Village
- Diexi Lake
- Heihu Qiang Village
- Pingtou Qiang Village
- Yingpanshan Neolithic Site
- Ancient Qiang City
- Mutuo Qiang Village
- Taoping Qiang Village