The Green Lungs of the Loess Plateau: Exploring the Ancient Qin Straight Road on Ziwu Ridge

1.The Great: Ecological Barrier of Northwest China

Ziwu Ridge is a vast mountain range spanning the border of Gansu and Shaanxi provinces. It stretches for approximately 400 kilometers and covers an area of over 23,000 square kilometers. The highest peak, Baishan, reaches an altitude of 1,687 meters. Known as the "green lungs" of the region, it is recognized as the largest natural secondary forest on the Loess Plateau. This mountain range provides a sharp visual contrast to the surrounding plateau, offering a dense canopy of ancient trees and vibrant greenery.

2.The Qin Straight Road: An Ancient Superhighway

The ridge is famously home to the ruins of the Qin Straight Road, a 2,000-year-old military highway. Constructed under the orders of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and supervised by General Meng Tian, the road originally spanned over 800 kilometers. It was built to connect the Qin capital with the northern frontiers, serving as a critical corridor for military movement and cultural exchange. Today, sections of this ancient "superhighway" remain clearly visible along the ridge, allowing travelers to walk the same paths as ancient cavalry.

A Sanctuary for Biodiversity and Culture

Beyond its historical significance, Ziwu Ridge is a haven for rare wildlife and ancient flora. It serves as a primary habitat for the North China Leopard and various protected bird species. The forest is a "living museum" containing thousands of years of ecological history, including millennium-old trees. Culturally, the ridge is deeply tied to the origins of the Chinese nation, with strong traditional connections to the legends of Fuxi and the Yellow Emperor. Scattered along its slopes are ancient grottoes and temple ruins, such as the Grotto Temple, which stand as silent witnesses to the region's spiritual evolution.