November 10, 2025

This Autumn, Discover Hidden Hiking Gems in Fangshan Beijing

Fangshan District in Beijing is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s truly a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. With dramatic karst landscapes, deep canyons, ancient temples, and unique geological wonders, Fangshan offers a range of hiking opportunities that will appeal to both geologists and adventurers. Whether you’re seeking serenity or adventure, Fangshan is the perfect destination for an autumn hiking escape. Best of all, these spots aren’t in Lonely Planet, so you’ll have them to yourself. Go on, check their website pages—see for yourself!

So, let’s explore some of the top hiking spots in Fangshan District. These sites are categorized by difficulty and experience, ensuring there’s something for every type of hiker.

Top‑Tier: Must‑Visit Hikes in Fangshan

1. Shangfang Mountain National Forest Park (上方山国家森林公园)

📍Eastern Section, Shengshuiyu Cun, Hancunhe, Fangshan, Beijing (near Dongshan)

  • The Vibe: This classic Buddhist mountain offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure. It’s often referred to as “a landscape of lush forests and bizarre peaks.”
  • What to expect:
    • The Cloud Water Cave (云水洞), a massive limestone cave complex with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. It provides a cool, refreshing escape from the heat.
    • The hike up to Tiankeng (天坑), a large sinkhole, along with visits to ancient temples like Dizi Convent (兜率寺), perched on the mountainside.
    • The famous Vine Bell Rope Path (云梯), a thrilling 262-step climb up the cliff face, assisted by iron chains and handholds.
  • Hike difficulty: Moderate to strenuous—this path requires both physical fitness and a good head for heights, especially when navigating the rope path.
  • Best time to visit: Spring for blossoms and Autumn for vibrant foliage. Summer is also great for enjoying lush forests and cool caves.

2. Shidu Scenic Area (十渡风景区) Fangshan

📍9 Jiudu Dajie, ShiduZhen, Fangshan District, Beijing

  • The Vibe: Known for its “mini‑Guilin” karst peaks, Shidu is a sprawling scenic area along the Juma River that offers a variety of hiking and river activities.
  • What to expect:
    • Guanjing Temple (天池山•风景区): A challenging climb leading to a natural rock bridge formation, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.
    • Lonely Village (东湖港): This scenic area features suspension bridges, waterfalls, and mountain trails, all surrounded by striking natural beauty.
    • For those who prefer less strenuous activities, the area also offers glass walkways and cable cars that allow you to enjoy heart-pounding views without the climb.
  • Hike difficulty: The difficulty ranges from easy (riverside walks) to strenuous (peak climbs).
  • Best time to visit: Late spring, summer, and early autumn are ideal. Summer is great for combining hiking with water activities such as rafting.

Adventurous & Unique Hikes

3. Baihua Mountain (百花山) – Fangshan Side

📍Baihuashan National Nature Reserve – East Gate (Southeast Side) – TEMPORARILY CLOSED – Fangshan, Beijing

  • The Vibe: This high‑altitude meadow hike offers breathtaking, panoramic views, making it especially stunning in late summer and autumn.
  • What to expect:
    • High‑Altitude Grasslands: As you hike through forests, the trail gradually opens up to lush meadows at the summit. In summer, these meadows are carpeted with colorful wildflowers, creating a picturesque setting.
    • On a clear day, the 360-degree views from the top are unrivaled. You’ll feel as if you’re on top of the world, with layers of rolling mountains stretching into the distance.
  • Hike difficulty: Strenuous—this hike requires endurance due to the long, steady climb. The trail is more rugged and less developed than the Mentougou side of Baihua Mountain.
  • Best time to visit: July to September for wildflowers and late September‑October for golden grasslands and crisp air.

4. ShengLian Mountain (圣莲山)

📍Liulinshui cun, Shijiaying Xiang, – TEMPORARILY CLOSED – Fangshan District, Beijing

  • The Vibe: Serene & awe-inspiring blend of dramatic karst landscapes, ancient temples, and the giant Lao Tze statue.
  • What to expect:
    • A Mix of Nature & Culture: Expect stunning karst landscapes seamlessly integrated with ancient temples, shrines, and pavilions built into the cliffs.
    • Tourist Infrastructure: The site is well-developed with a cable car, paved paths, stone stairways, and cliff-side plank walks. It’s managed and requires an entrance fee.
    • The Iconic Sights: The massive Lao Tze statue and the view from the summit are the main highlights.
    • Significant Walking: Be prepared for a lot of stairs and walking, even if you take the cable car to reduce the climb.
  • Hike difficulty: Moderate. Lots of stairs, but a cable car cuts the major climb.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn for mild weather and beautiful scenery.

💡Essential Tips for Hiking in Fangshan

  • Food & Water: Bring enough water and snacks, especially for remote hikes like Baihua Mountain.
  • Navigation: Use reliable Chinese‑map apps like Baidu Maps or Amap, as Google Maps can be inaccurate in remote areas.
  • Transport: A car is the best way to reach these hiking spots.
  • Cash: Bring RMB for entrance tickets, parking fees, and local snacks.
  • Gear: Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes as karst rocks are sharp and slippery. Trek poles will help with steeper climbs.

🌿Why Fangshan Should Top Your List for Autumn Hiking

Fangshan offers a wide range of hiking experiences, from serene temple walks to exhilarating cliffside climbs. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage, seeking solitude, or looking for rugged terrain, Fangshan District has something for every adventurous spirit. So, if you’re looking for a truly unique hiking experience, look no further than Fangshan.

👉Discover your perfect hike in Fangshan – explore custom adventures with Our Beijing’s Wild Wall & Mountain hikes.

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