ObjectiveTo elucidate the change trajectories of soil erosion intensity in Yunnan Province from 1990 to 2022, and analyze the types of changes and their driving factors, in order to provide a scientific foundation for effective soil erosion control strategies.MethodsSoil erosion intensity conditions in Yunnan Province was quantitatively assessed based on the RUSLE model, and the dynamic characteristics were captured by introducing interannual change rates. Soil erosion intensity change trajectory types were identified by combining change rates and frequencies using an improved Stability Mapping Method (STD). The contribution of driving factors were analyzed, and the characteristics of driving factors across different trajectory types were compared using the Random Forest model.ResultsThe interannual change trend of soil erosion in Yunnan Province was mainly stable, with significant changes observed in areas with substantial decrease and increase. Soil erosion intensity change trajectories exhibited significant spatial differentiation, with cyclical trajectories being the most prevalent (53.90%), followed by non-continuous stepwise (14.78%) and fluctuating types (14.08%). Precipitation, slope, population density, GDP, and vegetation cover were the main driving factors affecting soil erosion intensity trajectory changes, which contributed 17.92%, 14.56%, 12.52%, 12.67% and 9.41%, respectively. There were differences in driving factors across different trajectory types. Areas with cyclical and non-continuous stepwise trajectories had higher precipitation and greater slopes, while stepwise trajectory areas had higher farmland coverage and lower forest coverage.ConclusionThe characteristics of soil erosion intensity trajectory changes in Yunnan Province are significant, with spatial heterogeneity in driving mechanisms. Therefore, soil erosion control strategies should reflect regional differentiation and specificity, and adopt location-specific measures based on regional characteristics. The STD trajectory partitioning method based on change rates effectively captures the dynamic changes in soil erosion, and can provide new insights for monitoring, early warning, and partitioned control of soil erosion.