As the weather warms up, cycling through the suburbs of Beijing might be the most delightful way to travel. The annual pass offers numerous scenic spots and routes perfect for cycling, each with its own level of difficulty and unique views. Why not immerse yourself in nature this weekend, cycling up close and enjoying the spring sunshine?
Recommended Cycling Destinations
Beginner Level: Phoenix Ridge for Spring Outings and Flower Viewing
In April, Phoenix Ridge is in full bloom with apricot flowers. Cycling enthusiasts can set off from the city to this nearby paradise for spring outings and flower appreciation. Once you reach the foot of the mountain, you can start exploring. The best scenery is along the northern route, featuring peculiar peaks, strange rocks, secluded caves, ancient temples, pagodas, and apricot blossoms covering the mountains. Aside from sightseeing, you can also visit Longquan Temple. Originally built in the early years of the Liao Dynasty's Yingli era, the temple has a history of over a thousand years. In front of the mountain gate stand two robust cypresses over 600 years old, and inside the temple are two sturdy ginkgo trees and two ancient cypresses, all over a thousand years old.
Cycling Tip: It is recommended to take Beiqing Road, which has excellent road conditions, beautiful roadside flowers, and plenty of shade to block the sun—perfect for beginner cyclists.
Single Entry Ticket: 25 RMB
Intermediate Level: Jinhai Lake – Cycling Amidst Vast Blue Waters
Surrounded by mountains on three sides and featuring expansive waters, Jinhai Lake is 85 kilometers from the city center. Named after the nearby Dajinshan Mountain, it is one of Beijing’s three major reservoirs. It is also a hub for various water sports, with events like dragon boat racing and speedboat activities often held here. As you cycle along the journey—though the distance is considerable and fatigue may set in—the sight of these vast blue waters will surely invigorate you, bringing a sense of openness and immense pleasure.
Cycling Tip: Start cycling from Dongzhimen, follow Beijing-Shunyi Road to Kuliusu Roundabout, then ride down the tree-lined boulevard to Shunyi for a rest, and continue along Shunping Road to reach Pinggu. The route avoids steep slopes or sharp turns, taking you directly to Jinhai Lake.
Single Entry Ticket: 36 RMB
Advanced Level: Baihua Mountain – Exploring a Wonderland
The scenic resources of Baihua Mountain can be divided into four main areas: the Baihua Mountain Main Peak area, the Baihua Meadow area, the Wanghai Tower area, and the Baicao Pan area. Currently, the mountain enjoys a pleasant climate, with continuous peculiar peaks and murmuring streams. In spring, the thousand-acre Baihua Meadow at the mountain’s summit comes alive with birdsong and blooming flowers, leaving visitors in awe. Cycling through the mountain, you’ll encounter numerous captivating sights such as “Pine Waves on the Long Ridge,” “Birch Forest,” “Stone Forest Flower Path,” “Swallow Stream Waterfall,” and “Baihua Waterfall,” all of which are truly unforgettable.
Cycling Tip: Start from Fuchengmen heading west along Fushi Road to Sanjiadian Reservoir. Continue cycling along National Highway 109, pass Qingshui, then turn left at the Baihua Mountain intersection (16 km mark on National Highway 109), and ride approximately 16 km to reach Baihua Mountain.
Single Entry Ticket: 40 RMB
Recommended Cycling Routes
Zhangfang Ancient War Tunnel – Qinglong Lake Aquatic Amusement Park – Jietai Temple
The route features beautiful scenery and is suitable for leisure, though it is a bit long and requires a certain level of fitness and bike condition. However, beginners can choose to cycle the route in segments to reduce fatigue.
Total Single Entry Tickets: 20 RMB + 10 RMB + 45 RMB = 75 RMB
Dalengou Kiwi Valley – Beijing Ming Imperial Wax Museum at the Thirteen Tombs – Mangshan National Forest Park
The road from Changping to the Thirteen Tombs is undulating, and the path from the foot to the top of Mangshan Mountain is about 9 km of mountain road. Be cautious of bumpy sections when descending and avoid touching the central isolation signal devices to prevent accidents.
Total Single Entry Tickets: 20 RMB + 40 RMB + 20 RMB = 80 RMB
Xiaotangshan Modern Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Park – Yanshan Pagoda Forest – Hongluo Huiyuan Valley Ecological Scenic Area
The road leading to the Yanshan Pagoda Forest is a continuous hilly area, followed by a refreshing stretch of downhill—mind your cornering skills.
Total Single Entry Tickets: 30 RMB + 25 RMB + 25 RMB = 80 RMB
Badaling Ancient Great Wall – Ancient Cliff Dwellings – Kangxi Grassland
This is a longer route, suitable for a two- to three-day cycling trip. The mountainous sections are mainly between Nankou in Changping and Badaling. As you’ll pass through popular tourist areas, be extra cautious of pedestrians and vehicles.
Total Single Entry Tickets: 50 RMB + 40 RMB + 30 RMB = 120 RMB
Beijing Yunmeng Mountain Great Wall Ruins Park – Yunmeng Fairyland – Longtan Gully
Most of them are located near Yunmeng Mountain and are suitable for cycling tours. Along the way, you can overlook the Miyun Reservoir. The route mainly consists of S-shaped roads that go up and down, but the section from Miyun County to the Miyun Reservoir is mostly semi-urban road—wide and flat.
Total single-entry ticket price: 25 yuan + 30 yuan + 30 yuan = 85 yuan
Essential Cycling Tips
Seat Height: When sitting on the saddle, place your foot on the lowest pedal position. At this point, your leg should not be fully extended—slightly bent is ideal.
Gear System: It is highly recommended to use a geared bike for cycling. When cycling at high speed, use a large chainring with a small cog to achieve higher speed; when going uphill, use a small chainring with a large cog to make the climb easier.