The park's wildlife includes species adapted to arid mountain environments. Common mammals include blue sheep, red fox, and various rodent species. The area is also home to several bird species, including eagles, falcons, and the common redstart. Reptiles such as toad-headed agamas and various lizard species are frequently spotted among the rocks. The park serves as an important habitat for several endangered species and plays a crucial role in regional biodiversity conservation efforts.
Despite the arid climate, the park supports a diverse range of plant life adapted to the harsh conditions. The vegetation is primarily composed of drought-resistant species including various types of shrubs, grasses, and small trees. Common plants include Artemisia species, Nitraria tangutorum, and several types of desert-adapted wildflowers that bloom briefly after rain. The lower slopes feature patches of hardy grasses and scattered juniper trees, while higher elevations support small stands of spruce and pine in protected areas.
The colorful rock formations of Zhangye Danxia were created through a process spanning over 24 million years. During the Cretaceous period, the area was occupied by lakes and rivers that deposited mineral-rich sediments. These deposits, containing varying levels of iron and other minerals, created distinct layers of different colored sandstone and mudstone. Subsequent tectonic activity lifted these horizontal strata, while wind and water erosion carved them into the present-day spectacular formations. The distinctive red coloration comes from iron oxide deposits, while other colors result from different mineral contents including quartzite, calcium, and sandstone.
The Danxia landforms have been known to local inhabitants for centuries, but the area gained national recognition in the 1980s when geologists began studying its unique formations. The site was designated as a national geopark in 2011 and has since become internationally renowned for its extraordinary landscape. The region historically served as part of the ancient Silk Road, with numerous cultural relics and archaeological sites in the surrounding area testifying to its historical significance. Traditional Yugur and Tibetan communities have inhabited the region for generations, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.
The most spectacular feature is the 'Rainbow Mountains' section, where bands of red, yellow, blue, and green create stunning striped patterns across the landscape. The Seven-Colored Fan is particularly famous, displaying an extraordinary fan-shaped spectrum of colors. The Ice Cream Valley features cone-shaped formations resembling scoops of ice cream, while the Platform Mountain area offers panoramic views of the entire landscape. The viewing platforms at Scenic Area No. 4 provide the best photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors are most vibrant. The park also features unique wind-eroded formations known as 'chess pieces' due to their distinctive shapes.
The park experiences a temperate arid climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers (June-August) are mild with average temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December-February) are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for visiting, with moderate temperatures and clear skies. The region receives limited rainfall, averaging 200mm annually, mostly occurring during summer months. Due to the high altitude (around 2,000-3,000 meters), UV radiation is strong, and temperature differences between day and night can be significant.
China
38.9270°, 100.1370°
2011
322
Zhangye Danxia is famous for its colorful rock formations featuring extraordinary colors of red, yellow, orange, and green. The rainbow mountains were formed by deposits of sandstone and minerals over 24 million years. The area represents one of the most spectacular examples of Danxia landform in China, with unique patterns created by folding of layered rock strata.