[Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily]

The race attracted over 300 professional runners from home and abroad when it debuted last year.

Many returned to the park as visitors after the competition, Gao says.

Yumen has launched five themed routes to attract travelers this year.

They feature petroleum culture, outdoor activities and rafting experiences.

A 20 million yuan ($3 million) annual fund has been earmarked for cultural-tourism development.

Arrivals have increased since the city developed several national-level scenic spots.

Yumen recorded 1.4 million visits in the first six months of 2017, up nearly 18 percent year-on-year. Tourism income exceeded 1 billion yuan, up about 15 percent.

The city received 3 million visits last year, a roughly 27 percent increase over 2015. Tourism income grew 30 percent to 2.6 billion yuan.

Yumen will develop a sports town, and host rafting and auto races, Gao says.

Indeed, a growing number of travelers are discovering it truly is a place to enjoy great outdoor sports in the great outdoors.