Autumn 2011


Caravan Trail Explorer

South Silk Road to the Sacred Mountain 

 

October 2-7 

Cost: US$750/RMB4,900

For a full trip dossier, please write to info@redrocktrek.com


Join our caravan for a new exploration of a long-forgotten section of the South Silk Road. We begin by following the unusually well-preserved ancient road over the mountains southwest of Midu, passing through a region inhabited by traditional Yi communities. On the second day, the trail leads into the old town of Weishan. The main route of the Tea & Horse Trail also passed through here, and [for the moment] mule teams are still welcome to tread the wonderful Ming-era high street.    

 

After showering and refueling with local delicacies, we have an easy day's hike to a beautiful campsite by a reservoir at the foot of Weibaoshan, which has served as a Taoist retreat since the early years of the Tang Dynasty in the seventh century. The following day, we will make a lengthy, but leisurely trek via some of the many temples nestled on the mountain, camping higher up to enjoy the beautiful views. After breakfast the next morning, we will hike out to the main road, where vehicles await to ferry us to Xiaguan/Dali.  

 

For less experienced trekkers, this is an ideal entry-level event. The trails are well graded and with our mule caravan to carry all camping and personal gear, this adventure should be accessible to anyone in reasonably good physical condition.  

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Accessible, four-day caravan trek through diverse mountain and valley terrain, including remote, traditional Yi communities
  • Rare, stone-paved caravan trail over historic Niaodao Xiongguan
  • Weishan Old City, featuring superbly preserved examples of Ming Dynasty architecture
  • The beautiful Taoist sacred mountain of Weibaoshan
MAP    A rough route map can be seen here: http://www.umapper.com/maps/view/id/103427/