In the northern part of Beijing Municipal, there are hundreds of mountains and the biggest lake-like water body, the Miyun Reservoir. After visiting the city center area too much, I am currently focusing on the other areas where many places are scattered among them; many are like gems-like stars in the dark sky. Today, I am going to talk about my recent hiking to another mountain range in the Dashishan Forest Park. In my previous posts, I have written my Ynmeng mountains hiking, if you love natural beauty and mountains, then check them, and I hope you will love them.
Though Beijing is a huge city, but most of areas of it is not like other megacities. Most of the interesting parts of the Great Wall can be found in this northern area due to having these mountains range, which is also where most tourists, especially foreigners don't visit due to long distance. and in the tourists criterion these mountains have more to offer to the Beijing citizens.
I am going to write in details about my hiking trip to the mountains park called "大石山森林公园," which in English Dashishan Forest Park. You can walk in this park for free, but to get to the top view point where I want end my climbing needs to pay 10 RMB for the watch tower. The watchtower is a greta arrangement to such high mountain for exploring the surrounding area in very smooth process. This is because the basement was made by some local people at this level of the mountains which is a very tough task.
Getting to the top of the mountains is really hard because there aren't any natural or easy hiking trails. The only way to get there is on a road that people have made by themselves without hand railing or ropes. Luckily, I found a faster way that I used to get down because that way was from a different side than the one I used.
In addition, the view from the top is stunning, with a full 360-degree view of the area. On one side, the largest lake in the Beijing by the Mountains series is truly breathtaking. Also, on the other side of the lake, there are hundreds of beautiful mountains. They look even more beautiful now that the trees are getting new leaves and flowers.
As preparation, I started my journey in the early morning as early as possible to have sufficient time to cover all the trails in these parks as it has several mountains with several peaks to explore. A day at Dashishan Forest Park is a chance to get some fresh air after the long office hour working inside the concrete, see beautiful views, and face some challenges to keep my health fit.
As in recent months, I have gain some weight, so walking or hiking is a great chance for me to make my heart stronger with more flexible blood circulation in the body. As a walker who loves to explore new trails, I can't say no to myself from such opportunity. That's why I knew I had to check out Dashishan Forest Park, which is in the Miyun area 110 kilometers northeast of Beijing. It was too good to pass up the chance to get in for free, feel the outdoors, and see the Miyun Reservoir from above.
Let me tell you somethingabout the Dashishan which is not like typical park that i have visited so many in China. To get to the top of the peak, you need to be in good shape and be careful as there is no safety measures here as it is a free hiking track from the govtside as a public spot. To climb the the last peak which is the top peak is a hard one to scramble over loose rocks and rough ground, not for the weak of heart I can say.
I met a Chinese child who was noticing me like he has never seen any foreigner ore very interest on me. So, I tried to talk with him with my very naive level of Chinese. And I have taken some photo with him also on his mother's mobile and taken this selfie on my phone. He was so curious about foreigners as in this far area very few foreigners can be seen.
You can feel the energizing power of nature as soon as you step onto the trail. There is a lot of lush greenery all around you, especially in May when the leaves are the brightest. There is a strong, fresh wind that smells like the forest. It's nice to get away from the polluted air of the city.
As you walk along the rocky path, you can hear the chirping from birds and sounds from the beez during this spring season. The full loop with all the hills takes a whole day, but the scenery changes all the time, so you don't get bored to explore the views from different angles and sides.
Getting to the different peaks is like collecting some beautiful seashells on the beach. At the top of each mountain, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the area. The best thing about it, though, is the view from the top. As you stand on the peak, the wind is blowing through your hair, and you can see bright green mountains though my bad luck with shorted far sight due to the air pollution at such far distance.
Exploring each of the peak are just an achievement an passing your higher level of stamina. The last part is a difficult climb over loose rocks and rough ground. It's not for people who are scared of heights or can't keep their balance. But for people who are ready to push themselves, the prize is like nothing else.
I will definitely suggest that don't be over confident at this last climb as it is really hard. Make sure you have good hiking boots that stick well, and be extra careful on the rough rock. If the ground is too rough for you, it's best to enjoy the view from a lower peak and the rest of the trail.
Overall, hiking in Dashishan Forest Park is a unique and enjoyable activity. A great way to get away from the noise and chaos of the city, it gives you a chance to connect with nature and push your body. I can give some more ttips and suggestions you should know about your trip to Dashishan Forest Park as follows.
On weekends, the park can get very busy, so get there early. Try to get there early to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful time. Initial areas are more busier than the deeper sections.
You should bring sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, and lots of water. Don't forget to bring snacks with you on your walk. I had finished my all of the 3 bottles of water just after the top peak climbing and I was feeling, I should not finish them so fast and so early!
Wear clothes that are easy to breathe in and out and strong climbing boots that support your ankles.
Do not leave any traces and take out all of your trash.The mountain weather can change quickly. Check the weather report ahead of time and plan properly.
Do not go too far out of your comfort zone, especially when you are climbing the last few steps. Take sufficient intervals and rest during the climbing up.
Dashishan Forest Park should be on your list if you want a difficult but satisfying walk with beautiful views and a bit of excitement. Remember that it's not just a walk in the park; it's a trip that will make you feel proud of your stamina and make you connected to nature.
I hope you like my tour of such a fantastic place with great exploration. It was amazing to have such tours to a fantastic place like this, with the discovery of natural beauty, to enjoy and lose myself away from my busy life! If you have any queries, let me know in the comments, and I will try my best to answer them.
Thanks a lot for your time and attention. I will catch up with you at the next one.
Wish you a great day!