Yading scenic spot offers tracks running 29 kilometers through sprawling mountains and forests, giving those walking or running on them the chance not only to lap up the pristine nature but also to test theirphysical strength.[Photo by Wei Xueyan/ China Daily]

"I want to keep running and use it to teach my two daughters the value of persistence."

The pristine natural scenery is also drawing many tourists from far and wide.

"The number of tourists coming here in April rose by a nearly 70 percent," says He Rui, deputy head of the Yading scenic spot.

Easier transport, including the opening of an airport in Yading in 2013 and better roads linking the town to Kangding in Sichuan province have fueled the growth in tourism boom, he says, adding that most visitors travel there by car.

Last year, more than 400,000 tourists visited the scenic spot.

"Most come for the hiking and enjoy the high altitude and the different kind of scenery that this offers."

In an effort to lure tourists the local authority has offered a concession that allows visitors to spread their visit to the area over two days, being admitted free the second day and paying 40 percent less for bus transport to the scenic spot on the second day.

The pyramid-shaped snow mountain, lake, meadow, multi-layered forest are a sure-fire draw for nature lovers, especially photographers, He says.

If you go

Fly to Chengdu and then transfer to Daocheng Yading Airport.