Qilian Mountain National Park became the pilot area of China National Park System Pilot Project in June 2017. This article provides a basic description of Qilian Mountain National Park System Pilot Area from the aspects of the important natural resources, key ecological functions, and important historical and cultural values. It explores, analyzes the construction path and effect of Qilian Mountain National Park System Pilot Area in management and operation, policy, ecological conversation and restoration, natural resources supervision and community. It has been concluded that the construction of Qilian Mountain National Park System Pilot Area has sound effect of ecological restoration, economic and social development and park governance capacity. © 2020 Elsevier B.V.