As a travel writer with a passion for urban escapes, I embarked on a week-long hiking adventure in Beijing in May 2024. The city, often overshadowed by its bustling metropolis image, revealed itself as a paradise for nature lovers. My journey covered diverse trails—each offering unique landscapes, cultural insights, and moments of pure exhilaration. From serene parks to rugged mountains, Beijing’s hiking scene is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This diary captures my highs, lows, and everything in between, tailored for fellow adventurers from the US, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Why Beijing for Hiking? Many associate Beijing with the Great Wall or Forbidden City, but its surrounding trails blend history with untouched wilderness. I chose May for mild weather—averaging 20°C—perfect for long walks. Costs were reasonable: most park entries under ¥50 ($7), and public transport made it accessible. The real magic? Escaping crowds to find solitude in ancient forests and dramatic gorges. Over seven days, I trekked 50+ km, spending around ¥800 ($110) total, including food and transport. Now, let me walk you through my unforgettable routes.
Day 1: Yuandongjiaoye Park – The Urban Oasis
My adventure began at Yuandongjiaoye Park, a lush escape just a subway ride from downtown. I took Line 10 to the Summer Palace West Gate station, arriving by 9 AM. Entry was free—a pleasant surprise! The park felt like Beijing’s answer to Kyoto’s bamboo forests, with winding paths, stone bridges, and blooming flowers. Highlight: The poetic waterways, where I sat by a small cascade, listening to the gentle flow—pure serenity.
- Duration: 3 hours (easy pace).
- Cost: Free entry; metro fare ¥5 ($0.70).
- Highlights: Riverside trails, cherry blossoms, and photo ops at arched bridges.
- Pitfalls: Limited shade—bring a hat! Also, no vendors inside, so pack snacks.
- Emotional Takeaway: A peaceful start, recharging my soul amid city chaos.
Day 2: Nanshiyang Grand Canyon – Earth’s Sculpted Masterpiece
Next, I ventured to Nanshiyang Grand Canyon, a 2-hour drive from central Beijing. Entry cost ¥60 ($8.50), worth every yuan for its jaw-dropping cliffs and emerald pools. The canyon, carved by millennia, felt like hiking through a natural cathedral. I opted for the moderate route: a 12-km loop with 400m elevation gain. Must-see: The “One-Line Sky” section—narrow passages where sunlight filters through, creating ethereal beams. But beware: paths can be slippery; my hiking boots saved me from a tumble!
| Aspect | Details |
| Duration | 5 hours (including breaks) |
| Cost | Entry ¥60; shuttle bus ¥30 ($4.20 optional) |
| Highlights | Dramatic rock formations, waterfall views |
| Pitfalls | Crowded on weekends; wear non-slip shoes |
Personal Joy: At the canyon’s peak, I met a local shepherd who shared stories of the area’s folklore. His warmth turned a scenic spot into a cultural exchange—reminding me why travel connects us all.
Day 3: Lianquan Xianggu – Waterfalls and Whispers of History
Lianquan Xianggu, a hidden gem in Huairou District, stole my heart with its cascading waterfalls and ancient vibes. Entry was ¥28 ($4), and I arrived early to avoid crowds. The trail to Tian Gong Cave (a celebrity photo spot) was steep but rewarding—360° views of misty valleys. Pro tip: Take the east route for easier climbs; west is rugged. I spent 4 hours here, mesmerized by the symphony of rushing water.
- Duration: 4 hours (moderate difficulty).
- Cost: Entry ¥28; parking ¥20 ($2.80).
- Highlights: Waterfall hikes, cave explorations, and lush forests.
- Pitfalls: Only one restroom at the entrance; pack light.
Standing under the falls, I felt nature’s power wash away urban stress—a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss.
Day 4: Daqingshan – The Frontier Adventure
For a wilder experience, I headed to Daqingshan, 500 km from Beijing. A high-speed train to Chifeng (¥150/$21, 2.5 hours), then a bus to the trailhead. This 14-km hike featured grasslands, fissures (“Earth’s scars”), and surreal rock formations. Cost insight: Total ¥300 ($42) for transport and guide. The climb was gentle (400m ascent), but local herders can block paths—I started at dawn to avoid issues. Lesson learned: Always have a backup plan!
Emotional High: Watching sunrise over the grasslands, with wild horses grazing nearby, I felt a profound connection to Earth—raw and unfiltered.
Day 5: Matianling – Beijing’s Little Switzerland
Matianling in Zhangjiakou offered alpine meadows reminiscent of the Swiss Alps. Just 3.5 hours from Beijing, it was a day trip paradise. Entry free; I hiked 14 km with minimal ascent (240m). Pine forests and grazing cattle created a pastoral dream. Gear tip: Wear layers—it’s cooler here. I spent ¥200 ($28) on a guided group, which included transport.
- Duration: 6 hours (leisurely pace).
- Cost: Free entry; group fee ¥200.
- Highlights: Sweeping vistas, photo-friendly livestock.
- Pitfalls: Windy ridges; secure your hat!
Unexpected Joy: Sharing lunch with fellow hikers—a mix of locals and expats—we swapped stories under vast skies, embodying the spirit of adventure.
Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
Based on my week, here’s a quick guide: Best time: Spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for mild weather. Transport: Use subways and buses; apps like Baidu Maps help. Costs: Budget ¥500-1000 ($70-140) for a week, including food. Gear: Sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Pro caution: Some trails lack signage; download offline maps or join a group.
| Trail | Difficulty | Ideal For |
| Yuandongjiaoye Park | Easy | Families, beginners |
| Nanshiyang Canyon | Moderate | Adventure seekers |
| Daqingshan | Challenging | Experienced hikers |
Final Reflections: Beijing’s trails are more than walks—they’re journeys through time and terrain. From urban parks to remote peaks, each step brought joy, challenge, and cultural richness. To my global readers: Pack your bags, lace up, and discover Beijing’s wild side. It’s a story waiting to be written in your own footsteps.
Your Day 2 at Nanshiyang Canyon sounds epic! How slippery were the paths exactly? Would hiking poles be overkill? Planning my trip for September!
@TrailBlazerJen Great question! The “One-Line Sky” section had wet rocks – I’d rate it moderate slip risk. Poles would be smart! September is perfect, just avoid Chinese national holiday week (crowds!).
Only ¥800 for 7 days?! 😱 Did you cook your own meals? That shuttle bus fee at Nanshiyang – is it mandatory or walkable?
@BudgetWanderlust Pro tip: Street food is your friend! Jianbing (breakfast crepes) cost ¥6-8. Shuttle bus is optional but saves 40min dusty walk – worth the ¥30!
That Daqingshan sunrise photo gave me chills! ⛰️ How cold was it at dawn? My thermals are packed but now I’m second-guessing…
Visited Lianquan Xianggu after reading this! Waterfalls were majestic BUT restroom situation is still tragic 😂 Packing light = genius advice!
@AutumnHiker42 Haha glad you survived the restroom quest! Those waterfalls make it worth the struggle though, right?
PSA: Just did Matianling in October – bring WIND PROOF layers! Got nearly blown off the ridge 😅 Still 10/10 views though!