Foreword
Ancient trails refer to roads once used by our ancestors and still retaining part or all of their original features.These precious linear cultural heritages carry the imprints of our ancestors' civilization development, the hardships of human life, the rise and fall of merchants, the richness of culture, and the changes of history. They showcase the local natural ecology, local customs, and human history, and also serve as an important medium for our sense of nostalgia.
2014Year6Month22Day, two renowned ancient trails — the Silk Road and the Grand Canal — were officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as linear cultural heritage sites. The national Belt and Road Initiative, namely the joint construction of the“Silk Road Economic Belt”and the“2121st Century Maritime Silk Road,”has been incorporated into national policy. To this end, the China National Tourism Administration designated the development theme for both the2015year and2016year as the“Year of Silk Road Tourism,”ushering in a new chapter in the exploration and preservation of China’s and even the world’s linear cultural heritage.
To further promote the protection of ancient trails and implement concepts such as national fitness, Green Field Network, as one of the organizers, together with Beijing Civilization Road Hiking Center and professional media outlets such as Traveler and Lonely Planet, will launch a10yearly series of10major ancient trail systems, i.e., a total of100of the best ancient trail systems for society (with an estimated collection of over10000trails), and collaborate with more than 100 outdoor associations, travel agencies, and outdoor clubs to jointly organize China's "Millions Walking Ancient Trails" campaign. This aims to engage outdoor sports enthusiasts who care about Chinese civilization (including Chinese people worldwide and friends from other countries who love Chinese history and culture) to explore ancient trails across the country, and fully discover and preserve the historical and cultural resources embedded in these trails.
The "Millions Walking Ancient Trails" campaign in China is the first step in guiding the international series event "10Billion People Walking Ancient Trails."
I. The Significance of Walking Ancient Trails
Ancient trails are a highly valuable outdoor resource. For anyone who loves life and enjoys outdoor activities, walking ancient trails is an excellent way to engage in outdoor recreation, offering many benefits.
Firstly, ancient trails carry a long history. Walking them allows us to learn a great deal and be immersed in culture. Over the centuries, countless people have walked these paths, leaving behind a variety of stories. Ancient trails are usually surrounded by numerous historical relics. By exploring the stories behind these relics while walking, we can broaden our horizons and gain knowledge in history, geography, culture, and more.
Secondly, hiking on ancient trails is a very good form of exercise. It requires no special equipment or conditions, nor does it involve high costs, making it suitable for people of all ages. Visiting ancient trails in the suburbs of the city, away from noise and pollution, allows one to enjoy fresh air and a relaxed state of mind. Regularly walking ancient trails is very beneficial to health.
Additionally, ancient trails were once major transportation routes. Thanks to long-term maintenance, their conditions are generally relatively good. Even though some of these roads are no longer in extensive use and have gradually faded into the wilderness, they still offer a much higher level of safety compared to ordinary mountain trails. Safety is paramount in outdoor activities, and walking ancient trails is relatively safer.
Moreover, well-preserved ancient trails are usually located in the wilderness where the natural environment remains largely intact, with beautiful scenery along the way. Rolling mountains, lush forests, murmuring streams, vast deserts, tranquil lakes, and towering snow-capped peaks……always spark endless imagination and leave lasting impressions. Walking ancient trails allows one to fully appreciate the beauty of nature, bringing a refreshing and uplifting experience.
Lastly, it should be mentioned that the regions traversed by ancient trails, due to relatively underdeveloped transportation, still retain relatively primitive and simple folk customs. Moreover, along these ancient trails, there are also some ethnic minority settlements. While traveling these trails, we can explore the unique local customs, participate in distinctive activities, and fully enjoy the region’s special cuisine.
II. Guidelines for Hiking Ancient Trails
Ancient trails are extremely valuable cultural heritages. There are numerous ancient trails across China. In addition to well-known routes such as the Silk Road, the Ancient Tea Horse Road, and the Beijing-West Ancient Trail, every region, city, and even town has many valuable ancient trail resources that need our collective protection. When hiking these trails, we should possess environmental awareness and a spirit of civility, understand and accept the International Ancient Trail Civilization Convention and the International Ancient Trail Environmental Protection Convention, and commit to earnestly implementing them, actively promoting them—these are the basic principles we must follow.
III.Exploration of Ancient Trail Resources
The exploration of resources for each ancient trail includes the following20aspects:
1. Difficulty: Assessment of the difficulty level for hiking through the trail
2. Length: Assessment of the length of both transportation and hiking routes
3. Scenery: Evaluation of the grade of surrounding landscapes
4. Transportation: Assessment of the accessibility and departure methods
5. Food: Evaluation of dining options-Local Characteristics: Assessment of regional features
6. Features: Evaluation of the value of famous cultural relics and scenic spots
7. Historic Sites: Assessment of the value of ancient remains
8. Events: Evaluation of the impact of historical events
9. Historical Figures: Evaluation of the influence of notable historical personalities
10.Friendliness: Assessment of the attitude of local residents toward outsiders
11.Costs: Assessment of potential expenses for reaching and traversing the trail
12.Ethnic Groups: Evaluation of specific customs of local ethnic minorities
13.Hazards: Assessment of potential dangers in the area
14.Flora and Fauna: Evaluation of the presence of unique local plants and animals
15.Experts: Assessment of the status of local researchers or conservationists
16.Best Seasons: Evaluation of the optimal or characteristic activity seasons
17.Conservation: Assessment of current preservation or degradation conditions
18.Photos: Evaluation of the value of related photographs, paintings, and other materials
19.Books: Evaluation of published related books and their influence
20.Media Coverage: Evaluation of the influence of newspaper and online reports
In addition to the above20evaluation system, outdoor travelers may also conduct a comprehensive assessment of whether a specific ancient trail is suitable for their trip based on the trail’s specific conditions, using four coefficients: intensity, difficulty, risk level, and scenic value.
We welcome assistance from all sectors of society to jointly advance this initiative.
IV. Welcome to join the “Millions Walking Ancient Trails” series of events
“Most activities in the “Millions Walking Ancient Trails” seriesare open to everyone, can be joined at any time, and pose no physical threats to human health or life as seen in traditional competitions, nor do they carry the health risks associated with urban pollution. It represents a new model for getting close to nature, showcasing oneself, and participating in outdoor activities that are scientific, safe, eco-friendly, civilized, and enjoyable.
Currently, featured activities include ancient trail marathons and mountain trail runs held on various ancient trails, as well as cycling and self-driving tours along the Silk Road and the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Qualified participants will receive certificates, commemorative pins, medals, and more upon completion—definitely worth the attention of outdoor enthusiasts.
For specific participation methods, please refer to the activities posted on eachGreen Fieldwebsite.The official Green Field website will release relevant routes according to event schedules, and team leaders are welcome to actively organize groups and sign up to participate.