[Objective] An ecological vulnerability assessment in Xiangxi Prefecture of Hu'nan Province was assessed to serve as a reference for upcoming "green" and sustainable development, and the research areas were classified into "suitable" or "restricted" for development zones.[Methods] Spatial-temporal characteristics of the evolution of ecological vulnerability in all counties were comprehensively analyzed using GIS and ecological environmental characteristics were considered using socioeconomic statistical data from 2015 to 2018, remote sensing imagery, and digital elevation models.[Results] ① The spatial patterns of ecological vulnerability indicated high vulnerability in the west and low vulnerability in the east. Moderately low and low vulnerability zones were mainly distributed in Yongshun and Guzhang counties in Western Hu'nan, and high and extremely high vulnerability zones were distributed in portions of western Longshan and Baojing counties and Jishou City. ② Overall ecological vulnerability trended toward high vulnerability, while the area of moderately-low vulnerability zones decreased sharply and that of extremely high vulnerability zones increased dramatically, indicating that the ecological environment has deteriorated over the study period.[Conclusion] Attention should be focused on the positive impact of human activities on the ecological system and on ensuring that environmental protection work is carried out according to actual ecological conditions while poverty alleviation work is strengthened.