With spring approaching, it's the ideal time to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Why not climb mountains to soak in the boundless scenery? Here are some suggestions for your adventure.

Fragrant Hills Park

[Photo via Beijing Municipal Forestry and Parks Bureau]

Located in the western suburb of Beijing, Fragrant Hills Park is a royal garden with mountain forest characteristics. The main peak of the scenic spot, Xianglu Peak, has an altitude of 575 meters.

South Route: Enter the east gate of the park – Jingcui Lake – (Go left at the Qinzheng Hall) Fragrant Hills Temple – Shuangqing Villa – Laiqingxuan – Baisong Pavilion – Yuxiang Pavilion – Xiyang'e – Yunchao Pavilion – Meishi – Yutaimen – Xianglu Peak

This route features a gentle slope but covers a considerable long distance, requiring about 2-3 hours to reach the summit.

Middle Route: Enter the east gate of the park – (Go right at the Qinzheng Hall) Zhiyuan Hall – Zhisong Garden – Yuhuaxiu – Xiangwu Hall – Yutaimen – Xianglu Peak.

This route boasts a gentle slope and a moderate distance, taking about 1-2 hours to reach the peak.

North Route: Enter the north gate of the park – Climb the steps along the route of the cableway – Xianglu Peak

The route has quite a lot of steps with a greater challenge, yet it is the shortest among the three options, taking roughly 1 hour to get to the top.

Baiwangshan Forest Park

[Photo via Baiwangshan Forest Park]

Located in Haidian District, this is the easternmost peak of the Taihang Mountains' range extending to the North China Plain, earning the reputation of "the first peak on the outpost of Taihang". The main peak stands at 210 meters above sea level, crowned by a hexagonal structure known as Wangjing Tower at its highest point.

If you prefer not to climb stairs, it is recommended to enter through the east gate and ascend via the Highway 1. Notably, 95 percent of this road comprises a winding cement path that runs along the mountain. The Highway 1 is lined with wooden benches for rest and numerous viewing platforms, making it particularly suitable for hikes with children or the elderly.

If you feel that Highway 1 is not challenging enough, you can choose Trail 111, which is a relatively steep route of stone steps. The trail eventually reconnects with the highway, allowing you to continue your ascent seamlessly.

Badachu Park

Located in the northern part of Shijingshan District, it is surrounded by Hutou Mountain, Cuiwei Mountain, and Qinglong Mountain, which are a part of the Taihang Mountains. The highest peak is 464 meters above sea level.

Friendly Reminder: The cableway and slideway have been temporarily closed for upgrades and reconstruction since October 28, 2024.

Beijing Fenghuangling Nature Park

Situated in the northwest of the Haidian District, it is fondly known as "a small version of Huangshan Mountain in western Beijing". The scenic area boasts over 40 sightseeing points along its northern, central, and southern routes.

Middle Route: Longquan Temple – Love Forest – Cave of the Immortals – Sanfo Cave – Xuanyuan Cave – Xiuxian Chair – Apricot Blossom Village

Middle Route to North Route: Longquan Temple – Cave of the Immortals – Sanfo Cave – Xuanyuan Cave – Xiuxian Chair – Baita Reservoir – Yinliang Pavilion – Cliff Inscriptions

North Route: Shenquan Spring – Jade Rabbit Pavilion – Taoyuan Taoist Temple – Sky Ladder – Sky Ladder Pavilion – Gongbao Stone Village – Flying Stone Pagoda

(Sources: Beijing Fabu, Beijing Daily)