Mountain landscapes can be breathtakingly beautiful for various reasons. We are usually charmed either by their lush green landscapes or their snowy peaks. But if you're seeking a mountain destination beyond the usual, look for unique geological formations. One great example is different spots that have been named "rainbow mountains" around the globe. These sites offer uniquely colourful views that are sure to amaze and delight. Discover some of them below:
Discover These Different "Rainbow Mountains" Around The Globe:
1. Vinicunca, Peru
High in the Peruvian Andes, just a few hours from Cusco, lies Vinicunca. The term "Rainbow Mountain" is most popularly associated with this spot. It is also called Montana de Siete Colores (literally, "Mountain of Seven Colours"). Hikers love to go to Vinicunca to feast their eyes on its awe-inspiring landscape painted in streaks of red, green, yellow, and purple. The colours are a result of ice reacting to various natural minerals in the ground, which happened after the melting of glacier caps in 2013. Since Vinicunca is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters, the trek is considered challenging but rewarding, especially if there are clear skies. It used to be considered a sacred mountain, and some local communities still believe the same.
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2. Zhangye Danxia, China
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The rocky hills in China's Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park stand out in vivid shades of crimson, tangerine, and ivory. Spread across Gansu Province, this landscape is the result of millions of years of sediment layering and geological as well as seismic processes. Visitors can take advantage of paved walkways and viewing platforms that make exploration easy. They can also choose to take scenic hikes along the ridges. While it doesn't have as many colours as Vinicunca, it is nevertheless cherished as a distinctively beautiful landform.
3. Rainbow Range, Canada
Deep in British Columbia's wilderness near Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, the Rainbow Range is a remote destination. These ancient volcanic mountains get their unique rust, gold, and mauve tones from mineral-rich lava flows. With no crowds and sweeping alpine views, it's ideal for those seeking solitude and rugged yet understated beauty. Hikers can cross various stunning landscape features on the trail towards the main section. The range used to be called Tsitsutl, which translates to "rainbow mountains" in a specific dialect of the Carrier language (spoken by indigenous people in the area). The name now refers to the highest peak.
4. Landmannalaugar, Iceland
Tucked within Iceland's Highlands, Landmannalaugar has pastel-colored rhyolite mountains set against black lava fields and steaming geothermal springs. Different sorts of hiking trails weave through hills replete with shades of yellows, greens, and pinks. The views are especially stunning under the soft Arctic light. It's a dream destination for trekkers looking for surreal landscapes. In the summer, visitors can enjoy Icelandic horse riding here.
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5. Painted Hills, USA
The Painted Hills of Oregon, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, offer an extraordinary sight: gently rolling hills striped in rich reds, golds, and blacks. Formed from ancient volcanic ash and time-weathered soils, the terrain looks like it's been airbrushed by nature itself. Short trails and viewpoints dot the area, allowing travellers to soak in all its glory. They may find that the colours vary, based on weather conditions, moisture in the area, as well as the effects of natural light.
Which of these colourful spots do you want to visit first?
