Yolyn Am, Canyon in Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, Mongolia.
Yolyn Am is a deep and narrow gorge cutting through the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains with vertical rock walls that rise hundreds of feet on both sides. The canyon stretches for several kilometers, creating a dramatic passage where the stone formations tower above the walking path below.
The gorge was carved by water erosion over millions of years as a river slowly cut through the rock. For centuries, it served as a passage route for nomadic groups and traders moving between different regions of Mongolia.
The name comes from the Lammergeier vultures that nest in the rock walls, and you can sometimes spot these large birds soaring above the gorge on clear days. This connection between the place and its wildlife shapes how local guides talk about the site.
Sturdy hiking boots are important because the ground is uneven and often wet, especially in the deeper sections. Bring warm clothing even in summer months, as the deep shadows keep temperatures low throughout the day.
Despite being located in the Gobi Desert, thick ice formations persist deep inside the gorge until mid-summer because the narrowness blocks direct sunlight. This unusual combination of a desert landscape with frozen sections creates a striking contrast during spring visits.
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