Yolin Am, Canyon in Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Mongolia
Yolin Am is a narrow gorge cutting through the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains with walls that drop several hundred meters on either side. The canyon walls rise steeply, creating a confined space where sunlight barely reaches the rocky ground, which remains partly frozen during cooler months.
The gorge took its name from the Lammergeiers that traditionally nested in its cliff faces and were observed by nomads for generations. Over time, the location became a known landmark in the region where the movement of wildlife reflected seasonal changes in the Gobi.
The name comes from the Mongolian word for Lammergeiers, the vultures that nest in these cliffs. Visitors can still spot different bird species here today, including snowcocks and rare Mongolian finches that thrive in this harsh environment.
The best time to visit is from October through July when ice may form and paths remain passable. Bring warm clothing and sturdy hiking boots since the narrow gorge stays cool and surfaces can be slippery underfoot.
Despite sitting in a desert, this gorge keeps patches of ice year-round because the tall walls block out the sun. These frozen sections persist even during warmer months, creating a surprising pocket of cold in the middle of an arid landscape.
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