Abstract: On the basis of the model and rocky desertification risk assessment index system，the rocky desertification risks of 50 counties in upstream and middle stream of Yangtze River were assessed. With the aid of the space analysis module of Arcview software, the rocky desertification risk ranking spatial differentiation status in this region was analyzed. The results demonstrate as follows: The rocky desertification risk grade of this area presents a trend of decrease from west to east. Serious rocky desertification risk regions are widespread in the southwest of Guizhou Province and east of Yunnan Province, thinly distributed in upstream of Jialing River in south-east of Gansu Province and part of Chongqing City. The middle degree areas of rocky desertification risk mainly are distributed in the south-east of Sichuan Province, the east of Sichuan Province, the west of Chongqing City, most part of Guizhou Province and a part of mid-and up-stream of Jialing River. The light regions of rocky desertification risk mainly are distributed in Sichuan basin and hilly mountain area, a part of south of Shaanxi province, the east of Chongqing City and west of Hunan and Hubei provinces. No rocky desertification risk regions mainly are distributed in the north and the east of Hubei Province and most part of Jiangxi Province. Results can be served as a basis for integrated rocky desertification control in up and middle stream of Yangtze River for the future.