Autumn Colors Hike

If there is one thing we miss more than anything else, it’s autumn and all the attendant beauty. But for all those pining for the crisp air, the glorious colors and the crystalline blue skies, Beijing Hikers makes a special overnight hike in the Songshan Nature Preserve northwest of Beijing on October 4-5.

Past the massive Yanqing reservoir, Songshan straddles the border with Hebei province. And in the middle of the preserve stands Haituo Mountain. At 2,300 meters, it’s the second tallest peak in the area and also the goal of the hike.

The first day, however, start with a brisk two-hour hike through the countryside to get the juices flowing. That night stay in a clean and comfortable local nongjiayuan. Expect a feast of local cuisine, a bonfire to keep warm (yes, it will be chilly at night—be prepared) and the Hikers’ patented get-to-know-you games. The next day get up early for a run at Haituo.

The hike starts halfway up Haituo and, in total, lasts seven hours. It is a strenuous hike recommended for advanced hikers and is not recommended for families.

The trail winds gradually up along a high ridge. At the top, you’ll find something completely unexpected: instead of a precipitous cliff, you get a serenely rolling grassland, much like something you’d find in Inner Mongolia. Word is the Chinese army used to use the plateau as a helicopter landing pad. On a clear day, you can see the Yanqing Reservoir in the distance.

The hike down is where you get an eyeful of the fall foliage action. Scrub pines mix with birch forests in the valley below. All around natural springs flow. If you’re lucky, catch sight of wild deer.

This hike had been scheduled for September, but was delayed because of the Olympics. Lucky for us though: in October, the leaves should be well on their way to an autumn riot.

What: Beijing Hikers
When: Sat.-Sun., Oct. 4-5
Contact: 139-1002-5516
How Much: ￥650