Autumn is arguably the most beautiful season in Beijing — and a perfect time for hiking on its mountains. With refreshing weather and breathtaking scenery, it's easy to capture that perfect once-in-a-lifetime photo. So, what are you waiting for? Don't miss these must-visit autumn trails on the outskirts of Beijing!

Yanqi Lake's West Mountain Trail

Winding along the mountainside, the trail stretches for about 8 kilometers. With multiple entrances and viewing platforms, and with gentle inclines and lush greenery along the way, it is suitable for hikers of all ages.

Ascend, for example, to the Viewing Platform No. 3, and you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Bathed in the rich hues of autumn, the scenery unfolds like a magnificent oil painting everywhere you look.

Note: The trail might be temporarily closed for forest fire prevention and other safety reasons. Please follow the WeChat account "Yanqi Lake - International Convention Center" (雁栖湖国际会都) for the latest updates on opening and closing times.

Yudu Mountain's Leisure Trail

Located in Yanqing District, the trail is about 2 kilometers long, with a width of 2.4 meters, a total elevation gain of 180 meters and a maximum slope of 10 degrees. The entire hike takes roughly 1 hour. Its nearly flat, circuitous part is perfect for leisurely walks, while the slightly steeper sections are ideal for fitness hiking. It is also an excellent choice for enjoying the beauty of autumn.

Recommended Experiences

1. Alpine Meadow Viewing:

Here, you can breathe in the fresh mountain air while immersing yourself in the picturesque autumn scenery of lakes and hills.

2. Hiking Route for Autumn Foliage:

From the alpine meadow, head north for about 1 kilometer to reach the route. The best viewing period for autumn foliage is from late September to mid-to-late October, when the leaves gradually turn from yellow to fiery red, painting the landscape in brilliant colors. Along the way, a gentle stream accompanies your trip, adding a touch of serenity to the experience.

Jinhai Lake's Mountain Hiking Trail

Within Jinhai Lake Scenic Area, Juchiya Park features a 6.1-kilometer hiking trail that winds gracefully through the mountains. Visitors can follow the path upward to marvel at the tranquil beauty of red autumn leaves up close, or look out from higher vantage points to take in the sweeping autumn panorama of Jinhai Lake in all its seasonal splendor.

Qianshan Waterfront National Hiking Trail

The Wucai Qianshan area is home to a forest with colorful foliage spanning tens and thousands of mu (1 mu equals about 666.67 square meters). The colorful leaves there reach their peak viewing season in late October. The trail undulates along the mountain slopes, and at every turn, visitors encounter a new surprise of autumn beauty. It is one of the most rewarding and accessible free destinations around Beijing for admiring the fall foliage.

The core section of the trail starts in the east at the southern side of Anlilong Villa, Longwantun Town, Shunyi District, and extends westward to the western side of the dam of Tangzhishan Reservoir in Mulin Town. The entire route covers 125 kilometers in total, including an 80-kilometer main trail and 45 kilometers of branch routes.

Shixia Village's Great Wall Forest Trail

Located in Badaling Town, Yanqing District, this trail has a total length of 11.7 kilometers. Currently, a 2.5-kilometer demonstration section has been officially opened to the public and is free of charge.

Walking leisurely along the gravel path, visitors pass through vibrant wild forests adorned in shades of gold and crimson before reaching the viewing platform. From there, one can enjoy sweeping views of multiple Great Wall sections — including the Shixiaguan section, the section built in the Northern Qi Dynasty, the Badaling section, and the Shuiguan section — as well as the remains of Chadaocheng Fortress and the Nanshan roadside wall section. In autumn, the majestic Great Wall set against the colorful mountain forests presents a truly spectacular sight.

Gujiang Village's Mountain Hiking Trail

The trail, located in Gujiang Village, Changping District, offers a natural and rustic charm throughout its route and is open to the public free of charge. Following the mountain path upward to the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire village below.

So, which one would you most like to visit this autumn?

(Source: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism)