The Mountain Hiking Trail along the Southern Silk Road (Qionglai Section) in Sichuan joined the IMTA International Model Mountain Hiking Routes in 2023. Situated in Qionglai City, Chengdu, Sichuan, it is constructed on the basis of core relics of the ancient Southern Silk Road. Featuring "a thousand years of Silk Road culture combined with the ecological wonders of western Sichuan", it is a cultural hiking route that integrates profound historical heritage with natural experiences, and also serves as a benchmark section of Qionglai’s global outdoor hiking network.

The core section is the cross-country trail from Chuanwang to Tongle, Huaqiu and Mayanba, covering around 18 kilometers and taking 4–5 hours to finish with moderate difficulty and gentle altitude changes. The trail is built strictly in accordance with the concept of "handcrafted trails". Abandoning modern materials such as cement and steel plates, it is paved with local logs and gravel, achieving ecological harmony that embodies the philosophy of "man-made yet seemingly natural". The trail feels as if it has grown naturally from the mountains, retaining the original ecological hiking experience to the maximum extent. Along the way, it connects key attractions including Tiantai Mountain Forest, relics of the Ancient Tea Horse Road and Sichuan-style forest clusters. In spring, hikers can enjoy cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers blooming all over the mountains; in summer, the forest is lush and green; in autumn, the foliage turns into a riot of colors, presenting distinct scenery in each season.

The cultural experience is deeply immersive. Once an important part of the ancient Southern Silk Road, the trail witnessed the prosperity of ancient trade. Historical relics such as ancient post stations and old bridges are preserved along the way. Hikers pass through traditional western Sichuan villages like Huaqiu Village, where ancient dwellings and tea-making workshops remain intact. Visitors can taste local specialties such as Qionglai dark tea and experience the folk culture of western Sichuan. In terms of supporting facilities, the trail complements the leisure routes of Pingle Ancient Town and the cultural loop of Jinhua Mountain, forming a three-dimensional hiking system. Ecological rest pavilions and cultural interpretation boards are set up along the way, and ecological parking lots and tourist service points are available at both the start and end points. As an IMTA model route, it also launches integrated industry products of "hiking + scenic spots + wineries + homestays", providing one-stop experience services for hikers.