There are many wonderful mountains within easy reach of Beijing. But very few, if any, that are blessed with the stature, beauty, ecosystem and accessibility of Wuling Mountains.

Located at the border of Miyun County of Beijing and Xinglong County of Hebei, the mountain is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the centre of Beijing.

It's a place that satisfies the appetite of many kinds of visitors - mountain climbers, rock climbers, waterfall lovers, botanists, zoologists and bird watchers.

A State-level nature reserve, the area boasts over 1,800 plant species including its ''very own'' species of bellower. It is also home to leopards, gold eagles and other precious wildlife species.

Covering more than 180 square kilometres, the reserve is accessible from three directions - north, west, and south (the main entrance). Access via the South Gate is particularly appealing because it is there that you will find the very well maintained paved road that connects to the hotels and to the summit.

Along the way to the summit, people will see how biodiversity works here, as the habitat consists of mixed forests, steep cliffs, and luxuriant vegetation. There are hidden waterfalls to pleasantly surprise you in the lush forests.

Named Waitao Peak, the summit can be reached by a 40 minute drive up a winding, but generously wide paved road, followed by a 5-minute gentle walk. It is the highest point in Hebei and part of Beijing's majestic Yanshan Mountains range.

A trek of five to six hours from the west gate to the north gate along beautiful forest pathways is arduous but rewarding, because hiking lets you enjoy every fantastic corner of the mountains, accompanied with the musical chirping of birds.

Travel tips:

It is very cool in summer, so thick long-sleeve clothes are a must.

A ticket costs 70 yuan (US$8.47).

How to get there (with map):

Take a long-distance bus to Miyun from Dongzhimen Bus Terminal. At Miyun change to the Wuling Mountains National Forest Park bus.

By car: drive along the Beijing-Chengde Highway directly to Miyun, turn right at Songshuyu, turn onto Caojia Road and continue for about 2 kilometres.

Telephone: 010-81022403

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