Maozhai Nature Reserve

Maozhai Nature Reserve

Within Yao渡 Town in Qingchuan County — known as the “Cock Crows in Three Provinces” area — lies a vast forested region covering 14,150 hectares: the magical Maozhai Nature Reserve. Qingchuan sits on the northern edge of the Sichuan Basin, and Yao渡 Town borders Gansu to the north and Shaanxi to the east, often described as “a place where the crowing of a rooster can be heard across three provinces, startling five counties.” Maozhai quietly showcases its magic in this historically vibrant trading area.

Situated between the Micang and Daba Mountains of the Minshan Mountain Range along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, Maozhai Nature Reserve features undulating mountains and a landscape crisscrossed by gullies. Its towering peaks and steep terrain make one feel as if they’ve stepped into a realm shaped by fallen celestial beings. The terrain slopes from north to south, with the highest point being Yingzui Mountain at an elevation of 2,344.3 meters and the lowest being the Handao River Valley at 639 meters, resulting in an over 1,700-meter vertical drop and classifying it as mid-to-high mountain landform with deep dissection. The reserve enjoys moist soil and a mild climate, characteristic of a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with annual rainfall exceeding 1,000 mm. The unique geographical location and climatic conditions bestow upon Maozhai a richly diverse,

seasonally distinct landscape. In spring, melting snow blankets the forest in green, as rare and unique blossoms vie in a vibrant display of fragrance and color. In summer, the boundless blue sky shelters visitors under a canopy of towering trees that create a refreshing, carefree green haven. Autumn arrives with a painterly breeze that paints the forest in kaleidoscopic hues, while winter decks the area in layers of pristine white snow. The magic of Maozhai lies not only in its distinctive mountain forms and vivid seasonal scenes but, most importantly, in its abundant and rare wildlife. Surveys have found that the reserve is home to 292 species of vertebrates, spanning 85 families across 25 orders. Among them, 45 species are classified as Second-Class National Key Protected Animals, including golden snub-nosed monkeys, takins, leopards, Lady Amherst’s pheasants, Temminck’s tragopans, red pandas, and golden cats. Golden snub-nosed monkey populations are particularly robust, often spotted by patrol staff and nearby villagers freely climbing and playing in groups amid the forest. Historically, giant pandas also frequented the area — in May 2004, one was discovered at Pinghezi within the reserve. Thanks to the area's favorable climate and hydrothermal conditions, the vegetation is highly diverse, with many ancient plant lineages. To date, the reserve has recorded 1,002 species of higher plants across 158 families, including 12 species under national protection such as dove trees, ginkgoes, metasequoias, camphor trees, and nanmu.

Rivers within the Maozhai Reserve belong to the Bailong River basin of the Jialing River system, including the Liuja River, Tuan’e River, and Handao River. These trickling streams originate from various sources before converging into the mighty Bailong River. With ample water volume and crystal-clear flow, these rivers hold great potential for hydraulic development and also serve as fantastic destinations for eco-tourism. The reserve spans Yao渡 Town and the Maozhai Forest Farm in Qingchuan County, encompassing surrounding communities spread across 186.5 square kilometers and a population of 5,214 people, primarily engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry.

Due to previously limited transportation and economic challenges, residents traditionally relied heavily on firewood for daily fuel needs, which led to a certain degree of forest resource degradation. However, since the implementation of the national Natural Forest Conservation Program, forest management and nurturing efforts have intensified, and environmental awareness among local communities has grown steadily, fostering greater harmony between humans and nature. The abundant flora and fauna of Maozhai also provide excellent opportunities for scientific research and expeditions.

To date, the breathtaking natural scenery and rare wildlife of Maozhai Nature Reserve have not only captivated visitors but also drawn attention from numerous scientific researchers. This magical land of forests and waters, Maozhai, is bound to gain even more recognition for its superior ecological environment and ever-changing seasonal landscapes. As forest development and conservation progress continue, it will also serve as a vital natural green barrier for the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River, benefiting both people and the surrounding environment.

Yao渡 Town: Nestled in the golden tri-junction area where Sichuan, Gansu, and Shaanxi meet, Yao渡 Town in Qingchuan County lies adjacent to Wen County and Wudu in Gansu, as well as Kang County and Ningqiang in Shaanxi. It rests beautifully by the shores of Bailong Lake, surrounded by verdant mountains, murmuring streams, expansive farmlands, and abundant resources. Covering a total area of 213 square kilometers, the town governs 7 villages, 1 neighborhood committee, 1 provincial-level nature reserve, and is home to a rural population of 5,212 and 1,000 town residents.

Since the reform and opening-up, Yao渡 Town has capitalized on favorable timing, geographic advantages, and human resources, achieving continual growth in both material and spiritual civilization. The town’s infrastructure has gradually improved, offering convenient transportation—such as access to national highways... More detailed information about Yao渡 Town++