iscover the Mengkede Ancient Trail Trek: A Historic Hiking Route Through Xinjiang’s Mountain Valleys

Step into the footsteps of ancient nomads on the Mengkede Ancient Trail Trek, a breathtaking hiking route steeped in history and natural beauty. This trail traces the legendary migration path of the Wusun Tribe, an ancient nomadic group who fled pressure from the Xiongnu people in the Hexi Corridor. Forced to relocate westward, the Wusun navigated a little-known passage through the Tianshan Mountains into the fertile Ili River Valley, displacing the Yuezhi people (who had also been driven there by the Xiongnu). Here, the Wusun thrived, establishing the prosperous Wusun Kingdom—the largest of the 36 ancient states in the Western Regions.

Historians believe this very route—the Mengkede Ancient Trail Trek—was the gateway to their new homeland. In the 1970s, the trail gained modern significance when a military highway was constructed along its path, intended as part of the Duku Highway. However, harsh natural conditions led to its abandonment, leaving behind remnants of paved roads that now blend eerily into the wild landscape.

Today, the Mengkede Ancient Trail Trek offers hikers a moderately challenging yet rewarding adventure. The route winds through rugged terrain, crossing just one low-elevation mountain pass (Daban), making it accessible for most trekkers. Highlights include the Kuitun River Valley, where vast groves of populus laurifolia trees blaze with vivid golden hues in autumn, framed by the striking blue waters of Tianhu Lake. Beyond the pass, the trail opens into the lush alpine meadows of the Ili Valley, dotted with grazing livestock and carpeted in emerald green.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking awe-inspiring vistas without extreme difficulty, the Mengkede Ancient Trail Trek combines rich history, diverse ecosystems, and jaw-dropping scenery. Walk ancient paths, marvel at abandoned highway relics, and immerse yourself in landscapes that shift from golden forests to highland pastures—all on one unforgettable journey.

Note: The Duku Highway (Du-Ku Highway) is a modern engineering marvel traversing the Tianshan Mountains, renowned as one of China’s most scenic drives.

Highlights of the Mengkede Ancient Trail Expedition

Unforgettable Experiences

1. Tianshan Mountain Trekking: Traverse the legendary landscapes of the Tianshan Mountains.
2. Wilderness Picnics: Enjoy meals surrounded by pristine nature.
3. Stargazing Camping: Sleep under a canopy of stars in remote, unpolluted skies.

Historic & Scenic Landmarks

• Old Duku Highway: Built in the mid-1970s as a military supply route along the ancient trail, this road was abandoned due to extreme weather and rugged terrain. Today, its remnants remain visible, blending history with wilderness.
• Ulan Sadik Lake (2,500m): A mysterious glacial lake nestled between 3,500m peaks. Its still waters are dotted with ancient submerged trees, creating an eerie yet captivating atmosphere.
• Tangbula Grassland: Known as the “100-Mile Natural Gallery,” this world-class alpine meadow in Nileke County showcases the unparalleled beauty of the Ili region.
• Kuitun River Valley: Fed by snowmelt from the Yilianhabirga Mountains, this roaring river carves through giant boulders. In autumn, golden Populus diversifolia trees line the valley, creating a photographer’s paradise.
• Mengkede Dawan (3,500m): A challenging snow-covered pass in the Yilianhabirga Range, occasionally frequented by rare wildlife like snow leopards.

Included Services & Amenities

1. In-House Operations: Directly managed by our team for quality and safety.
2. Expert Guides: Led by seasoned outdoor professionals.
3. Complimentary Gear:
   • Buff-style multifunctional headwear
   • Two trekking poles
   • Professional camping equipment (tents, waterproof duffel bags)
4. Luggage Support: Dedicated packhorse team for hassle-free trekking.
5. Camp Comfort:
   • Camp chairs and tables
   • Prepared wilderness picnics
6. Local Flavors:
   • Traditional ethnic cuisine
   • Fresh seasonal Xinjiang fruits (e.g., Hami melons, grapes)
7. Safety First:
   • Complimentary off-road accident insurance
   • Emergency gear: First-aid kits, satellite phone, walkie-talkies

Why Choose This Adventure?
From the golden valleys of Kuitun to the haunting beauty of Ulan Sadik Lake, this journey combines adrenaline-pumping hikes with cultural immersion and top-tier logistics. Perfect for explorers seeking raw natural beauty without extreme technical challenges.

Note: “Dawan” refers to a high-altitude mountain pass in Central Asia.

Cost Breakdown: Mengkede Ancient Trail Expedition

What’s Included

1. Accommodation
   • City Hotels: Standard twin rooms (double occupancy).
     • Night 1: Yining (Ili) hotel
     • Night 6: Urumqi hotel
   • Camping: Double-occupancy tents.
     • Nights 2–5: Camping at designated wilderness sites
2. Transportation
   • Private transfers: Yining city → trek starting point + trek endpoint → Urumqi.
3. Meals
   • Full-board coverage:
     • City meals: Local restaurant dining in Yining/Urumqi.
     • On the trail: Breakfast/dinner (camp meals) + lunch (packed trail snacks).
4. Packhorse Support
   • Packhorses and handlers to carry group gear (for lightweight trekking).
5. Expert Leadership
   • Professional guide fees (including their travel, accommodation, wages, and meal allowances).
6. Group Gear
   • Shared equipment:
     • 150L waterproof duffel bags (shared between two people).
     • Tents (double occupancy), foam sleeping pads (one per person).
     • Camp infrastructure: Dining tent, cookware, camp chairs (one per person), tables.
     • Emergency gear: Satellite phone, walkie-talkies, first-aid kits, fuel.
     • All trail food and cooking supplies.
7. Complimentary Services :
   • Hiking accident insurance.
   • Quick-dry buff/neck gaiter.
   • Welcome and farewell dinners.
   • Seasonal fruit tastings.

What’s Not Included

1. Major Transportation: Flights/trains to/from the expedition start/end points (Yining/Urumqi).
2. Single Room Supplement: CNY 1000/night for solo hotel room occupancy.
3. Early Evacuation: Costs due to personal withdrawal from the trek (e.g., medical evacuation).
4. Route Changes: Fees for alternate plans caused by local policy restrictions.
5. Taxes: Invoicing taxes (if requested) are paid by the participant.
6. Unforeseen Expenses: Any costs not explicitly listed in the itinerary.
7. Personal Horseback Riding: Optional horseback riding during the trek is self-funded. Participants assume all risks and costs.
8. Emergency Rescue Fees: Costs arising from personal negligence or force majeure events (e.g., natural disasters) are borne by the participant.

Mengkede Ancient Trail: Essential Gear Checklist
Prepare for your adventure with this comprehensive packing list tailored for the rugged beauty of the Mengkede Trail.

Luggage

1. 50L Duffel Bag/Suitcase (checked luggage, max 20kg/44lbs, for gear transported by packhorses).
2. 30L Daypack (to carry daily essentials like water, snacks, and layers during hikes).

Sleeping Gear

• Down Sleeping Bag (700–1000g fill, rated to -10°C/14°F).

Clothing Layers

1. Base Layers: Quick-dry thermal top and bottom (merino wool or synthetic).
2. Mid-Layers: Fleece jacket and pants.
3. Outer Layers:
   • Waterproof hardshell jacket and pants (or rain gear if not waterproof).
   • Lightweight down jacket (for camp warmth).
4. Extras:
   • Wide-brimmed sun hat + warm beanie.
   • Quick-dry gloves.
   • Knee braces (optional, for steep descents).

Footwear

• Mid/High-ankle Waterproof Hiking Boots (broken in!).
• 2 pairs of thick hiking socks (wool or synthetic).
• Crampons + Gaiters (essential for Sept/Oct snow conditions).

Accessories

• Waterproof Dry Bags (for organizing clothes/valuables).
• Trekking Poles (2 recommended; free rental available).
• 500ml Insulated Water Bottle (hydration is key!).
• Personal Bowl/Utensils (spork or reusable chopsticks).
• Headlamp/Flashlight (with extra batteries).

Sun & Weather Protection

• Sunglasses/Snow Goggles (UV400, polarized for glare/snow).
• Sunscreen (SPF50+, high-altitude sun is intense!).

Electronics & Extras

• Camera Gear (GoPro, DSLR, drone – capture those epic vistas!).
• Toiletry Kit (toothbrush, biodegradable soap, etc.).
• Personal Medications (e.g., altitude sickness pills, blister kits – optional).
• Energy Snacks (trail mix, bars – optional but wise).

Mandatory Documents

• ID Card (Chinese nationals).
• Passport + Visa (international travelers; check entry requirements).