Less Crowded, More Beauty｜Hike the Maling Ancient Road During the Rainy Season

Explore Maling Ancient Road: The Perfect Choice for Rainy Season Hiking
The Maling Ancient Road, an ancient passage brimming with historical and natural beauty, was built during the Yuan Dynasty and served as a vital route for official document delivery and goods transportation. It not only carries historical memories but also offers modern-day travelers an excellent hiking route. During the rainy season, the Maling Ancient Road reveals a unique charm, with fresh air, lush vegetation, and murmuring streams weaving together to create a beautiful picture, attracting numerous visitors.

Historical Background of the Maling Ancient Road
The history of the Maling Ancient Road dates back to the Yuan Dynasty. As a crucial link connecting six counties—Pujiang, Yiwu, Dongyang, Lanxi, Jiande, and Tonglu—it witnessed countless merchants and the changing lives of the people. The bluestone paved roads on both sides of the ancient road still retain their former appearance, as if narrating those distant stories. The ancient villages along the way still maintain traditional lifestyles, allowing visitors to seemingly travel through time and experience the lives of ancient people.

The Best Choice for Hiking
Route Recommendation
For hiking enthusiasts, the Maling Ancient Road is undoubtedly an ideal choice. Here's a detailed route recommendation:

- Starting and Ending Points: Shishe Village to Luci Village
- Route: Shishe Village → Maoping Village → Xiekengkou → Baibustreet → Luci Village
- Distance: The entire journey is approximately 12 km, with a total elevation gain of only 102m. It's mostly flat and suitable for all levels of hikers.
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours, suitable for families and friends traveling together.

Self-Driving Guide
If you choose to drive, you can navigate to Luci Village, Tonglu County, Zhejiang Province, where parking is plentiful and free. After parking, you can take a taxi to the starting point, Shishe Village, and begin your hike. The picturesque scenery along the way is worth savoring.

Unique Charm of the Rainy Season
The Maling Ancient Road during the rainy season offers a unique experience. Rain nourishes the earth, filling the air with the fresh scent of soil, making the trees more verdant, and causing flowers to bloom in abundance. The gentle flow of streams along the way, accompanied by birdsong, adds a melodic touch to your journey.

Natural Scenery
On the Maling Ancient Road, you can admire the rich natural scenery. Wildflowers bloom in vibrant colors along both sides of the ancient road, attracting various insects. The tall trees appear even more majestic under the nourishment of the rain, and sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, creating a serene and beautiful atmosphere.

Local Culture
The villages along the way, such as Maoping Village and Luci Village, retain strong local characteristics. You can see traditional farmhouses in the villages and experience the warm hospitality of the local residents. Chatting with the villagers about their lives and tasting authentic local cuisine will enrich your journey.

Important Notes
While enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Maling Ancient Road, visitors should also pay attention to the following:

1. Weather Changes: The weather during the rainy season is unpredictable. Please check the weather forecast before traveling and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
2. Equipment Preparation: It is recommended to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring rain gear and non-slip equipment to cope with wet road surfaces.
3. Environmental Awareness: Please protect the environment during your visit, do not litter, and maintain the original appearance of the ancient road.

The Maling Ancient Road is not only an ancient passage but also a link between history and nature. Under the baptism of the rainy season, it reveals a unique charm, attracting countless visitors. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or seeking inner peace, the Maling Ancient Road can offer you an unforgettable journey. Let us experience the profound history and natural beauty on this ancient road and create our own stories.