A Few Hikes to Take Around Beijing

Beijing is a city that has no shortage of scenic trails. The leaves are changing and temperatures are dropping, and fall will be gone before you know it.  For folks who are looking to spend some time in nature without leaving the capital, here are some places you can go.

Dongling Mountain, aka East Side of Ling Mountain

Located in the west of Beijing, this spot is a bit confusing as it's got a few names. The mountain itself is known as 灵山 língshān, aka Ling Mountain, but hikers should head specifically to 东灵山 dōnglíngshān - the eastern side of this massive peak. The trails found on Dongling can be quite challenging, but the experience is definitely worth it once you reach the top.

Dongling Mountain 灵山风景区
Qingshuizhen, Mentougou District
门头沟区清水镇洪水口村89号

Badaling Ancient Great Wall

The Badaling Ancient Great Wall (not to be confused with the usual tourist-congested Badaling section) serves up some fantastic views, and fall is the perfect season to enjoy them. Visitors will able to relive China's past glory as they hike up the walls and watchtowers.

Jingxi Ancient Road

If you're an experienced hiker who is looking for a trek in the wilderness, you may want to tackle a section of the Jingxi Ancient Road. Expect some steep climbs and winding routes as you make your way through the trails. A highlight of the journey is the hoofprints along the trail, which are indentations left in the rock by horses and donkeys carrying coal for trade. 

Heituo Mountain

If you're up for a real challenge on a trail that is less marked and maintained, a hike up to the peak of Heituo Mountain is a good choice. The trail is as challenging as it can be and it'll also allow you to peep into the Jiankou Great Wall as you get higher. If you get lucky, you might even encounter some other brave souls who dare to make their way to the top.

All through October, Beijing Hikers, a hiking organization that aims to bring avid hikers together, will be leading treks to the aforementioned spots. Scan the QR code below for more information.

Bolitai

One place that's perfect for autumn hiking is 玻璃台 bōlítái -- aka glass table. Located in the eastern outskirts of Beijing in Pinggu District, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Bolitai is also notable as it has plenty of trail options, with routes designed for everyone from beginners to experienced climbers.

Beijing Boxer Hash, part of the Beijing Hash House Harriers, will be leading a running and walking hash around the Bolitai area this Saturday (Oct 15). Who are the Beijing Hash House Harriers? They're a friendly, social, beer-motivated runnning club that do mountain runs as well as city runs (with mountain runs taking place on the second or third Saturday of every month). Scan this code below to take part.

Bolitai 玻璃台
Bolitai South Road, Pinggu District
平谷区玻璃台南路

Yudu Mountain

This area is another less frequented place located in the remote mountains of Yanqing District. Encircled by a meandering stream, Yudu Mountain is famous for its incredible natural beauty. It is an easy hike and there is also a large meadow at the peak, which offers plenty of space for a picnic with friends and family.

Yudu Mountain 玉渡山
North to Yuhuangmiaocun, Zhangshanyingzhen, Yanqing district
延庆区张山营镇玉皇庙村东

The Lakeside Great Wall

The Lakeside Great Wall, located in Jiuduhe town in Huairou district, is a perfect spot for those who are looking for hiking places that are suitable for all ability levels. Not only will you be able to enjoy a hike with beautiful waterside scenery, but you'll also get a glimpse of the historic relics of the Wall.

The Lakeside Great Wall 黄花城水长城
Xishuiyucun, Jiuduhezhen, Huairou district
怀柔区九渡河镇西水峪村

Baihua Mountain

If you haven't been to Baihua Mountain, now is a good time to visit. You can enjoy large quantities of exotic flowers and rare plants without having to endure all that summer heat. The hiking distance is about 12km and is beginner-friendly.

Baihua Mountain 百花山
Qingshuizhen Baihua Mountain Forest Farm, Mentougou District
门头沟区009县道百花山林场

READ: Camp on the Great Wall for a True Addition to Your Beijing Bucket List

Images: Miss_pan, Courtesy of Beijing Hikers, Claire Li, Beijing Hash