Northern Xinjiang · 喀纳斯与阿勒泰

Kanas & Altay

Forested slopes wrap around an alpine lake in the Altay Mountains.

Dark open water curves past snow-covered pines and mountains at Kanas Lake. — Kanas & AltayOpen water and snow-covered forest meet at Kanas Lake in the Altay Mountains.

Kanas Lake, the river bends and the villages of northern Altay.

Kanas & Altay through the year

March–May

Spring

Moon Bay, Kanas River

Start at Moon Bay for an overlook of the river winding through the forest. Thaw comes late in these mountains, and the high ridges can still hold snow in May.

The turquoise Kanas River curves through a steep valley of green conifers. — Moon Bay, Kanas RiverLate spring at Moon Bay, where the Kanas River turns between forested slopes.

June–August

Summer

Kanas Lake

Go toward the water in late afternoon. When it is calm, the dark water reflects the sunlit slope and the line of trees along the shore.

September–November

Autumn

Altay river valley

Look for the turning leaves along the river in late September. The best colour can shift from one part of the valley to the next.

A pale green river winds between gold deciduous trees and dark conifers in Altay. — Altay river valleySun catches golden foliage around a winding river in Altay in late September.

December–February

Winter

Snowbound village in Altay

The village lights come on while the snow still holds the blue of dusk. Check road conditions before setting out after heavy snowfall.

Amber lights trace snow-covered roofs and lanes in an Altay village after dark. — Snowbound village in AltayAt dusk, warm lights pick out lanes and rooftops in a snow-covered village in Altay.