Awestruck by the Beauty of the Red Leaf Season in Formosan Sweetgum Forest - Quang Tri

The Formosan sweetgum forest is located in Huong Hoa mountainous district, Quang Tri province, specifically in Huong Linh, Huong Phung, Huong Tan, and Huong Son communes. This forest stretches along the Western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Highway, standing out particularly beside Rao Quan Hydropower Reservoir - one of the largest hydropower lakes in Central Vietnam. Located about 70 km from the center of Quang Tri's provincial capital, the sweetgum forest is an ideal destination for those who love nature and wish to discover untouched beauty.

The Formosan sweetgum tree, scientifically known as Liquidambar formosana Hance, is a large, light-loving timber tree species with strong regeneration capability, commonly growing in cool climate regions such as Cao Bang, Yen Bai, or Quang Tri. Especially at an altitude of over 500m above sea level in Huong Hoa, sweetgum trees thrive well, creating vibrant colorful forests when entering the leaf-changing season.

The red leaf season of the Formosan sweetgum forest in Quang Tri usually begins in November and lasts until January of the following year, when the cold weather in the Truong Son mountains stimulates the trees to shed and change leaves simultaneously. The progression of the foliage season can be divided into stages:

• Early November: Leaves begin turning from green to yellow.
• Mid to late December: The peak time, when the sweetgum forest is covered in a distinct and uniform red color.
• January: Leaves gradually fall, creating a natural carpet under the canopy.

Based on observations in recent years, in 2026, December continues to be rated as the most ideal period to visit and take photos of the red leaf season in Quang Tri's sweetgum forest.

The Formosan sweetgum forest in Quang Tri stands out with beauty that changes with the seasons, offering a unique visual experience. In spring, delicate young red leaves sprout, accentuating the smooth white trunks. In summer, the forest is covered in a fresh green canopy. As autumn approaches, the leaves turn dark green, then shift to yellow, orange, and finally bright red in late autumn and early winter—the period when the forest reaches its peak beauty, usually from December to January every year.

Seen from above, the sweetgum forest appears like a vibrant natural painting with a blend of yellow, orange, and red hues intermingled with the lush green of the Truong Son mountains and the clear blue waters of Rao Quan Lake. Under the morning sun or sunset rays, the leaves glow brightly, glistening on the water surface to create a poetic landscape, reminiscent of maple forests in Europe or South Korea.

To reach the red-leaved Formosan sweetgum forest in Quang Tri, you can start from the center of Khe Sanh town, Huong Hoa district. Below is a detailed guide:

• Travel to Khe Sanh: From Dong Ha City (the capital of Quang Tri province), follow National Route 9 for about 60 km to reach Khe Sanh town.
• Get to Rao Quan Hydropower Reservoir: From Khe Sanh, continue along National Route 14 or the Western branch of Ho Chi Minh Highway for about 5-10 km to reach Huong Phung commune, home to Rao Quan Hydropower Reservoir.
• Explore the sweetgum forest: To admire the panoramic view of the forest, you should rent a boat or paddle a SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) on Rao Quan Lake. Boat rental prices range around 300,000 VND per person for 60 minutes, allowing you to meander beneath the canopy and behold the scenery from a unique perspective.

Note that this area remains quite wild with limited tourism services. Therefore, you should prepare thoroughly, bringing drinking water, snacks, and essential items if you plan to camp or trek.

The red-leaved Formosan sweetgum forest in Quang Tri is not only a place for sightseeing but also offers many exciting experiences:

• Boating or SUP paddling on Rao Quan Lake: This is the best way to reach the forest and admire the reflection of sweetgum leaves on the water. You can rent boats from locals or guide groups like Mr. Nguyen Bon, a local native of Huong Hoa, who frequently assists tourists in exploring the area.
• Trekking and nature exploration: The forest trails are a great choice for hiking enthusiasts. You will immerse yourself in the cool green space, listen to rustling leaves, and feel the serenity of nature.
• Camping by the lake: A night of camping beside Rao Quan Lake, under the starlight and next to a campfire, is an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy an outdoor BBQ, watch the brilliant red sunset over the lake, and take in the fresh air.
• Check-in photography: With its romantic scenery, the sweetgum forest is an ideal destination for taking stunning photo ops. Shots taken from above or on the lake surface will yield impressive photos that attract great engagement on social media.

Tips for visiting Quang Tri's Formosan sweetgum forest during the red leaf season to ensure a safe and complete trip:

• Clothing and footwear: Prioritize non-slip trekking shoes and long-sleeved clothes to keep warm, as early mornings and late afternoons can be quite chilly.
• Personal items: Bring drinking water, snacks, and trash bags to help keep the forest environment clean.
• Local guide: It is recommended to contact a local guide for safety and to gain deeper insights into the sweetgum forest and local culture.
• Photography equipment: Prepare cameras, phones, and a power bank to capture moments during the red leaf season.
• Itinerary: If time permits, consider combining a 2-day 1-night tour with trekking and camping activities to fully experience the forest atmosphere.

The Formosan sweetgum forest contributes to promoting the beauty of Quang Tri – a land known not only for historical relics like Quang Tri Ancient Citadel or Vinh Moc Tunnels, but also for its unique natural landscapes. Exploring the sweetgum forest not only offers a travel experience but also helps visitors gain a better understanding of the culture and nature of this heroic land. This is an unmissable destination for nature lovers seeking a romantic, poetic setting. With its vibrant colors, untouched space, and unique experiences such as boating, trekking, or camping, this forest promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.