A new Leave No Trace hiking and nature-learning program officially opened at Huangbaitang on Baima Mountain in Wulong on July 26, 2026. More than 100 hiking enthusiasts gathered in the mountain wilderness for the launch of this new outdoor tourism experience.

The Huangbaitang Leave No Trace hiking and nature-learning routes are officially launched. Photo/The Publicity Department of the CPC Wulong District Committee

Hidden deep within the Baima Mountain protected area, Huangbaitang is home to exceptional ecological resources. Rare subalpine sphagnum wetlands, primeval forests, and karst valleys form an interconnected landscape. Forests cover more than 90% of the area, while concentrations of negative oxygen ions can reach 60,000 per cubic centimeter. More than 2,000 species of wild plants and animals have been recorded.

These natural assets make Huangbaitang both a refreshing forest retreat and an ideal setting for immersive environmental education. The Baima Mountain Huangbaitang Nature Education Base incorporates Leave No Trace principles throughout its operations, encouraging responsible outdoor recreation and helping visitors protect the area’s pristine environment while enjoying its scenery.

Two hiking routes were launched to meet the needs of different visitor groups.The 6.2-kilometer Hidden Landscape Easy Hike includes off-road vehicle transfers, backpacks, first-aid supplies, energy snacks, farmhouse meals, and outdoor insurance. It is suitable for families with children, educational groups, and recreational hikers.The 10-kilometer Wilderness Adventure Hike follows largely undeveloped mountain trails and offers a more demanding outdoor experience for experienced hikers.

The first participants passed scenic locations, including Mandarin Duck Lake, Shuijingting, Yunqi Valley, and the Mountain Loop Trail.

The base has also introduced eight structured nature-learning courses covering the micro-world of alpine lakes, seed dispersal, flowers and pollination, sphagnum wetlands, alpine meadows, ecological observation on hiking trails, plant-specimen making, and the exploration of natural colors. Designed for students at different primary and secondary school levels, the courses integrate ecological research and hands-on learning into the journey, effectively turning the mountain forest into an outdoor classroom.

At the launch ceremony, professional outdoor instructors explained Leave No Trace principles, hiking safety, and forest-fire prevention. More than 100 participants then took a pledge to respect nature and hike responsibly. Following the official launch, both hiking routes and the accompanying nature-learning programs opened to the public.

Participants set out in two groups, passing through alpine wetlands, primeval forests, and karst valleys before receiving commemorative medals at the finish. A hiking rewards program was also launched. Visitors who share Huangbaitang’s scenery on social media can earn points and redeem cultural and creative products such as sun-protective jackets and souvenir magnets.

From July 25 to 31, admission to the Huangbaitang hiking routes is free. Visitors can make a real-name reservation through Wulong Scenic Area’s official WeChat mini-program. Admission is limited to 200 visitors per day, and reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Huangbaitang Nature Education Base will continue to upgrade its facilities, improve its hiking and educational programs, and refine its operating standards. It aims to become an influential high-end nature education destination in China while expanding Wulong’s outdoor tourism and ecological learning offerings.