Buzz
Perched majestically in the heart of the primeval forests of Trạm Tấu district, Yên Bái, Tà Xùa mountain rises to an approximate altitude of 2,600m, culminating in its highest peak adorned with a mystical stainless steel summit marker proudly stating its elevation of 2,865m. This summit is likened to a kingdom ruled by the enchanting moss species.
The Moss Kingdom atop Tà Xùa Peak
This peak ranks among the top 20 highest mountains in Vietnam, boasting spectacular natural landscapes, particularly the fairytale-like and mystical moss-covered forest. The Tà Xùa region not only captivates local tourists but also serves as a gathering point for many professional mountain climbers.
Adventure Amidst the Primeval Forest
Despite being summer, the weather in the Tà Xùa mountainous region remains pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 18-25°C. We followed a trail leading up the mountain, guided by a local Mông youth from Tà Xùa (Bản Công, Trạm Tấu). This path, formed by the indigenous Mông people who regularly climb the mountain for bamboo shoots, firewood, and more recently, for herding goats and horses.
Ascending to varying altitudes, one encounters diverse landscapes – sometimes the vast expanse of the majestic azure sky and golden sunshine, and at other times, immersion in a veil of lingering mist throughout. From an elevation of 2,000m above sea level, the towering ancient tree trunks densely populate the scene, seemingly hugging the sky. By late afternoon, amateur mountain climbers like us begin to feel the strain in our muscles and the fatigue in our limbs.
Sleeping under the pre-erected shelter of the Mông people for a night, we woke up very early the next morning to witness the ethereal sea of floating clouds, embracing the entire range of mountains known as the 'Dinosaur Backbone' with awe-inspiring grandeur. The geological shifts over millions of years have sculpted the Tà Xùa mountain range, elevating it with three remarkably impressive peaks.
The path atop the mountain range has only a narrow trail, with the vast green expanse of ancient forests on both sides. At an altitude of about 2,500m above sea level, we experienced an indescribable sense of buoyancy, enjoying the harmonious symphony of numerous bird species amidst the deserted forest. As noon approached, the mist became denser. The air became moist, and we had to put on the raincoats from our backpacks to protect our equipment.
Exploring the Moss Kingdom
Venturing through a series of rugged mountain paths, reaching an altitude of approximately 2,600m above sea level, we encountered the enchanting sight of a mysteriously vast forest. An expansive forest covering hundreds of hectares unfolded before our eyes, adorned with green moss and lush vegetation clinging to tree trunks, branches, and leaves.
Right beneath our feet were soft moss carpets, still adorned with tiny dewdrops. Walking on this special moss carpet provided us with intriguing sensations. Green moss species, then golden-yellow moss, reigned supreme everywhere. Moss-covered tree trunks had transformed into giant green cotton candy. First-time visitors were wide-eyed, gaping in fascination and delight.
Beneath the emerald-green canopy, the tree branches gracefully arch like a mesmerizing hammock, prompting Mr. Nguyen Duy, hailing from Thai Binh, a member of our group, to yield to his emotions and promptly sit and recline for a moment. With a simple gesture of his raised thumb, Mr. Duy conveyed the sheer magnificence and delight he experienced.
Occasionally, we stumble upon ancient giant trees stretching horizontally above us, resembling a bridge adorned with lush moss. When fatigue sets in, our group ascends this natural wooden bridge to rest and capture the enchanting scenery. The ethereal mist, cool and refreshing, adds an extra touch of mystique to the mossy forest scene.
Sections of vibrant moss cling tightly to the soft-barked trees, intertwined with climbing vines, creating a truly impressive spectacle. It feels as though we've wandered into the primeval carpet of vegetation, adorned with stunning clusters of yellow and red azalea flowers.
Now and then, wisps of mist drift by, allowing the sunlight to shine through. In these moments, the red azaleas become even more radiant than ever. The late-season azaleas gracefully blanket the pathway, complemented by the golden-hued moss.
Descending along a forest trail, we discover a small, crystal-clear stream with invigoratingly cold water. Following the stream, we unveil a majestic waterfall cascading from a height of 40-50 meters down the mountain ravine. The local H'Mong people liken the beauty of the waterfall to the flowing hair of Northwest Vietnamese maidens in their youthful spring.
Some tips for exploring the mossy forests of Mount Ta Xua
– Prioritize physical fitness with exercises like walking and hill climbing before embarking on the journey.
– It is mandatory to have a knowledgeable guide familiar with weather conditions and terrain.
– Essential gear includes hiking boots, a jacket, raincoat, gloves, sleeping bag, flashlight, insect repellent, bandages, necessary medications, water, food, navigation equipment, and more.
Eco-tourism Route to Ta Xua Unveiled
Based on our exploration, the mossy forest here represents a unique form of epiphytic vegetation. Moss species, ferns, and a few orchids parasitize on tree trunks and rocks. In Vietnam, only a few high-altitude, temperate climate mountains like Ta Xua (Yen Bai), Ta Lien (Lai Chau), boast such impressive ecosystems of epiphytic vegetation.
As per Resolution 35 of Yen Bai province, from 2020 to 2025, the Department of Culture and Information in Tram Tau district will plan and develop an eco-tourism route, integrating exploration with resort experiences and community engagement in the Ta Xua mountainous region. This tourism route is part of the Northwest tourist area, connecting with local attractions and landmarks.
Source: Hai Duong/Youth
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJune 7, 2019
