The colorful forest in Songpinggou is igniting Western Sichuan! The red and yellow leaves cover the mountains like fire—miss it and wait another 365 days

A must-visit in golden autumn! The colorful forest in Songpinggou, Maoxian County, is so stunning it leaves you speechless. The red and yellow leaves all over the mountains look like a spilled palette. If you miss this, you'll really have to wait another year!

🚩 Highlights at a glance
• Little Jiuzhaigou of Western Sichuan: a perfect combo of colorful forest and lakes
• Best viewing period: mid-October to early November (now is just right!)
• Top photo spots: Mo Lake, Baishi Lake, Five-Color Pool
• Hidden gem: The cultural shock of the Diexi earthquake ruins

📸 Must-visit photo spots guide
1. Mo Lake Viewing Platform
The highest altitude lake, perfect for reflection shots! Recommended to arrive before 9 AM when the morning mist creates the best photos.
2. Baishi Lake Boardwalk
A 270° lakeside trail with golden larch trees and turquoise water in the same frame (Navigation: Songping Township, Yanwo Village)
3. Five-Color Pool Viewing Platform
The 4 PM sunlight makes the pool water appear dreamy blue-green. Remember to wear white or red clothes for a more striking look.

🚗 Transportation guide
Self-drive: 3.5 hours from Chengdu (Navigate to "Diexi Songpinggou Scenic Area," all paved roads)
Bus: From Chadianzi Station → Maoxian (54 RMB/person) → charter a car to the scenic area (about 80 RMB)
Tickets: 80 RMB/person, sightseeing bus 70 RMB (recommended to buy a combo ticket to save energy)

🍂 Colorful forest viewing route
Morning: Scenic area entrance → Mo Lake → Pearl Waterfall (1.5-hour hike)
Afternoon: Baishi Lake → Five-Color Pool → Lover’s Beach (by sightseeing bus + walking)
Evening: Watch the sunset at Diexi Ancient City ruins (free attraction)

⚠️ Notes
• Altitude around 2800 meters, avoid strenuous exercise
• Big temperature difference between morning and evening, bring down jacket + scarf
• Only simple snacks available inside the scenic area, bring your own food
• Drones must be registered in advance (register at the entrance)

🍁 Colorful forest exclusive foods
• Tibetan hotpot (Recommended: Songpinggou Renjia, yak meat is super tender)
• Highland barley cake (freshly baked at the scenic area entrance, 5 RMB each)
• Sea buckthorn juice (10 RMB/bottle, sweet and sour to refresh)

🏡 Accommodation recommendations
• Songpinggou Hot Spring Hotel (the only one with floor heating)
• Baishi Lake Inn (lake view right outside the window)
• Maoxian County hotels (better value for money)