This hidden gem of a hiking trail in Dujiangyan will leave you in awe!

🌿 The most frequently asked-about hiking route recently is none other than the ancient Songmao Trail tucked away in Dujiangyan! Not only does it boast breathtaking scenery, but it's also steeped in history. The best part? Right now, you'll be utterly mesmerized by vast fields of blooming white irises!🌸 This ancient trail served as the "lifeline" connecting the Chengdu Plain to Songpan and Maoxian counties, dating all the way back to the Three Kingdoms period! In ancient times, it was a bustling commercial artery where merchants on mules transported hides, tea, and medicinal herbs from Tibet in exchange for daily necessities. Hence its grand titles: "Tea-Horse Road" and "Southern Silk Road"!🛣️ Imagine walking this historic path, stepping on centuries-old footprints while surrounded by blooming flowers—pure magic! **🌳 Complete Hiking Guide (Choose Your Difficulty Level): Starting Point: Simply navigate to "Jianjian Tree, Dujiangyan"! Three route options to suit everyone: 1. **Leisure Mode (Beginner/Family-Friendly):** From the start, take the left uphill road into forest trails. Hike to the highest point—Yintai Temple (a small Taoist temple for rest), then return the same way. Easy and relaxing! 2. **Intermediate Challenge (Moderate Effort):** Follow Route 1 to Yintai Temple but continue downhill via farm roads. When you spot a wooden bridge on your left, turn left! This leads to stone-paved forest paths ascending to another temple (same as Yintai Temple), then return. 3. **Warrior Route (Strenuous):** Start by taking the right path along the river uphill to Yintai Temple. Like Route 2, descend to the wooden bridge, turn left onto stone paths to the temple, but return via forest trails. *💫 These routes form a scenic 9km loop, typically completed in 4 hours✅. Max elevation: 1,508m; total ascent: 751m. Choose based on your fitness level. **Trail Notes: Expect varied terrain—forest dirt paths, rocky trails, farm roads, and stone forest steps. Caution advised.** Strongly recommend anti-slip hiking shoes👟 and trekking poles for stability!** Some sections may have landslides—stay alert for safety⚠️. **👣 Pro Tips: 1️⃣ **Transport & Parking:** Navigate to "Jianjian Tree, Dujiangyan" (~1.5hr drive). Parking fee: ¥10—great value! 2️⃣ **Avoid Getting Lost:** Poor signal📶—download the offline 【Songmao Trail】 map on "Two Step" APP beforehand for guidance. 3️⃣ **Supplies:** No vendors en route💧—pack all food and water. 4️⃣ **Gear Checklist:** Trekking poles (stability!), sun hat (UV protection), windproof jacket (breezy up there), insect repellent (forest bugs) are must-haves🧰. 5️⃣ **Safety First:** Hike with a buddy for mutual support. **🎈 Bonus: Post-hike, stop by Zipingba Reservoir for stunning views—perfect photo ops📷! Don't miss capturing these moments. Blending history, nature, and adventure, the Songmao Trail is absolutely worth exploring! Gather your friends and experience it together!