Trudging up steep mountain paths, over 500 "hikers" from East China were kept busy. They split into multiple groups, all heading simultaneously toward the renowned mountain of western Zhejiang—Jinziping in Chun'an County, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. The journey was filled with breathtaking scenery, but the trails were rugged and treacherous.
Chun'an County has long been known as the "County of a Thousand Peaks," with over ten peaks within its borders towering at around 1,500 meters above sea level. These peaks vary in shape and offer diverse landscapes. Jinziping, also called Jinzhi Peak, is located at the border between Zuokou and Wangfu townships in Chun'an County, standing 1,450.8 meters above sea level. Surrounded by numerous peaks and covered with pine trees, it is hailed as the "Yellow Mountain of Western Zhejiang."
The mountainous region centered around Jinziping has developed several popular hiking routes.
It is reported that recently, multiple groups of hikers completed the ascent—and even "through-hikes"—along six different routes, taking between five to eight hours each. This outdoor hiking activity attracted over 500 hiking enthusiasts from cities such as Shanghai and Hangzhou.
Among them, the longest route, the "Big Loop," requires nearly eight hours of climbing. This route not only takes the most time but is also particularly challenging. Nevertheless, it drew many local hiking enthusiasts eager for adventure.
One 86-year-old man insisted on completing the full 8-hour "Big Loop." Smiling, he said, "Although I'm old, I’m still as sharp as ever—I can definitely keep up with the young guys."
The elderly man, whose hair had turned white, was dressed in professional hiking gear and carried a professional camera. His steps were remarkably steady. Even after trekking for over eight hours on the "Big Loop," he remained spirited and chatted animatedly with reporters.
An organizer from Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, told reporters that they had recently gathered hikers through online forums and microblogs. Once the message was released, it immediately attracted fifty to sixty participants. Many hikers, having heard about the stunning scenery and challenging trails, were eager to experience it for themselves.
Reporters learned that the hiking event has brought the "mountain element" of Chun'an’s natural resources back into the spotlight. Leveraging its mountain and water advantages, Chun'an—once impoverished due to the lake in the last century—has now overcome its difficulties.
"Events such as hiking festivals, cycling tours, and outdoor expansion activities have attracted countless hikers, including celebrity figures like Jack Ma and Chen Miaolin, influential business leaders in Zhejiang," said Yang Yifeng, Deputy Director of the Chun'an County Scenic Area Tourism Commission, who is optimistic about the intangible brand value behind these natural elements.