Excellence knows no bounds, and we press forward with the wind at our backs. As the "Leaves Accompany My Journey" – 2012 Lafuma Hiking Season continues, the completed climbs at Beijing’s Lingshan and Jilin’s Changbai Mountain have left a deep impression, while anticipation builds for the August journey to Shaanxi’s Taibai Mountain. From August 10–12, 2012, the northwestern leg of the "Leaves Accompany My Journey" – 2012 Lafuma Hiking Season officially kicked off at Taibai Mountain Scenic Area in Shaanxi, unveiling its mysteries to outdoor enthusiasts. Organized by the renowned French outdoor brand Lafuma and hosted by the Lingdong Shanshui Marketing Consultants, this leg featured more challenging routes, stunning geological landscapes, and a richer competition format than other regions, propelling the "Leaves Accompany My Journey" – 2012 Lafuma Hiking Season to new heights. On the day of the event, 30 top outdoor athletes from the northwestern region competed fiercely, tackling the classic Taibai climbing route—walking plank roads, crossing stone seas, navigating dense forests, camping at Dàbái Hǎi (Big White Sea), singing together, and collecting environmental pledges in "wish bottles." They spent a romantic, thrilling, and eco-friendly adventure in Taibai.
Among the best, the bravest triumph when paths cross.
As the third stop of the event, the participants of the Taibai Mountain climb were carefully selected, seasoned adventurers, making the venue a gathering of elites with an exceptionally lively atmosphere. Competitors came from across the country, including outdoor beauty "Chóngzǐ Shìnō" from the northwest, founder of Sulu Outdoor, Sichuan Mountaineering Association high-altitude support staff "Dà Jiǎoyāzi," deputy captain of the Xi’an Earthquake Disaster Rescue Team "Hēi Dàshuài," and many more. The event also included well-known clubs like the Outdoor Alliance, Perfect Life, and Red Ant Outdoor. The athletes bonded instantly, as if they had known each other for years. "I really love this kind of event—it gives me the chance to connect and compete with outdoor enthusiasts nationwide. This will be an unforgettable experience," an excited Beijing-based hiker shared.
Over the two-day event, participants traversed the classic Taibai Mountain route—from Tāngyù to Báxiān Tái (Peak of the Immortals)—immersing themselves in serene, deep forests, scaling perilous mountain paths littered with stone seas, exploring mysterious and rugged valleys, and reaching the summit of Báxiān Tái to witness the breathtaking sea of clouds. Alongside, a mid-level ridge hiking race was held between Xiǎowén Gōng Miào (Small Wen Gong Temple) and Dàwén Gōng Miào (Large Wen Gong Temple), where the vast stone seas and rugged trails added to the challenge. The competition was intense, with top athletes starting from Xiǎowén Gōng Miào, racing neck-and-neck... The entire event was gripping, fueled by the fierce rivalry among elite participants.
Beyond the hiking competitions, the organizers arranged a variety of engaging activities, including a green environmental initiative—"Care for Every Inch of Land"—and a photo contest titled "The Most Beautiful Leaf in My Eyes." These activities combined Taibai Mountain’s beauty with environmental awareness, encouraging participants to enjoy hiking while committing to outdoor conservation. The creative formats sparked enthusiasm, with many joining in. The crystal-clear waters of Dàbái Hǎi were carefully bottled in exquisite "eco-wish bottles," their azure hues adorned with colorful ribbons symbolizing love, carrying the athletes’ environmental pledges and good wishes. "Environmental protection is no small matter. Caring for nature and the Earth starts with small actions. I hope my efforts can highlight the importance of outdoor conservation. This event, full of love and commitment, is truly meaningful, and the ‘wish bottles’ are beautifully made. I’ll keep mine and continue promoting green outdoor practices," a female athlete told reporters with a smile.
A Romantic Camping Night: An Unforgettable Celebration
As dusk fell, after a day of trekking, the most relaxing moment arrived—camping at Dàbái Hǎi. Once tents were pitched, the weary adventurers immersed themselves in the surrounding beauty. Dàbái Hǎi, a round, crystal-clear pool, is hailed as the "Pearl of Taibai Mountain." At this hour, it lay serene and tranquil, its surface shimmering like a dream world detached from reality. The legends surrounding it added an air of mystery. The campsite was nearby, with the gentle lake water within arm’s reach. The evening breeze rippled the surface, lulling everyone into a blissful trance.
As night deepened, fatigue faded, and the romantic camping—"Invitation to Sing"—unfolded in a lighthearted, joyful atmosphere. Gathered around a bonfire, participants sang passionately. The men were dashing, the women graceful, while the cool night breeze carried the faint scent of grass and earth. The audience was captivated by this dreamlike scene. Everyone also showcased their talents—songs, jokes, and dance performances were dazzling. Athlete "Dà Chóng" (Big Bug) performed an authentic Shaanxi folk song, sending the crowd into raptures with his powerful voice. The female adventurers weren’t to be outdone; Guān Guān’s rendition of "The Outside World" with her delicate, sweet voice tugged at everyone’s heartstrings. "Everyone’s so talented—singing under the stars, what a bold and hearty spirit we have here in the northwest. We had an amazing time!" an exhilarated hiker exclaimed.
Additionally, the winners of the mid-level ridge hiking race were announced amid cheers. Beijing’s "Lǎotóuzi" (Old Man) claimed first place with an outstanding time of 42 minutes and 10 seconds, receiving an honorary certificate and a Lafuma hiking backpack worth 2,000 yuan from the organizers. "Làng Wá" (Wave Kid) and "Hóngshāo Niúròu Mǐxiàn" (Red Braised Beef Noodles) secured second and third places, respectively, with all attendees congratulating the winners. Other awards—Helping Hands Award, Best Team Member Award, Best Club Representative Award, Best Charm Award, and Best Public Welfare Award—will be announced soon, with top Lafuma gear up for grabs. Stay tuned.
Before dawn on August 12, before sunrise, the athletes eagerly awaited the spectacle of Taibai Mountain’s sea of clouds and sunrise. Though thick fog shrouded the mountain, some persisted in climbing to Báxiān Tái. Their perseverance paid off—around 7 a.m., the fog began to lift, and sunlight pierced through the clouds. Bathed in golden rays, the undulating mountains and peaks emerged vividly, while the rolling sea of clouds created a fairy-tale ambiance. Some even glimpsed the rare Buddhist halo, the biggest "surprise" of the trip. Everyone was thrilled—this was the beginning and continuation of hope, whose power never ceases to amaze. The group took a collective summit photo to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime view.
With the conclusion of the northwestern leg—Taibai Mountain in Shaanxi—of the "Leaves Accompany My Journey" – 2012 Lafuma Hiking Season, the competitors now enter the intense final stage. Participants can upload their travel journals, photos, and videos on the official website to share and rally votes from friends and fans. Final rankings, including the northwestern division champion, will be determined by expert judges’ online scores, with winners receiving luxurious trips to "The Homeland of Leaves"—a romantic seven-day tour of France—and exclusive Lafuma prizes. Who will take home the honors? Stay tuned.
Appendix: Winners of the Mid-Level Ridge Hiking Race – Northwestern Leg of the "Leaves Accompany My Journey" – 2012 Lafuma Hiking Season
Mid-Level Ridge Hiking Race
First Place: No. 17 ID: Lǎotóuzi (Old Man)
Race Time: 42 minutes, 10 seconds
Second Place: No. 23 ID: Làng Wá (Wave Kid)
Race Time: 47 minutes, 46 seconds
Third Place: No. 10 ID: Hóngshāo Niúròu Mǐxiàn (Red Braised Beef Noodles)
Race Time: 48 minutes, 17 seconds