The dropping temperature sends out a signal heralding the retreat from outdoor activities to venues under a roof.

Although such change is gradual, it is also inevitable to see outdoor activities reduced to a minimum. Active people can cope with it, prolonging the process with a shift to walking which helps them enjoy outdoor exercise as well as the golden scenery available before the real chill sets in.

Mountain climbing or walking has been an activity traditionally undertaken by Beijingers during autumn, with the emphasis on recreation rather than fitness, the purpose being to view seas of red leaves.

People pour into mountains in search of vast areas of burning red leaves, with Fragrant Hills being the number one destination.

Fragrant Hills was the perfect place to carry out climbing exercise while enjoying the autumn leaves. However, the increasing popularity of the area as a hot spot for tourists is now a problem, with an overflow of people at weekends during the golden season.

It is now a given that visitors will have to fight their way through swarms of people, "enjoying" the view of the backs of people's heads as opposed to the glory of the fall. Any serious attempt at exercise would be futile as even the fittest visitors are reduced to shuffling pace.

There is however a solution to this problem: Go elsewhere.

Beijing boasts a rich resource of mountains on the outskirts of its downtown area, among which many less well-known mountains also offer quality paths that run through swathes of red leaves. Baiwangshan Mountain is just one of the alternatives within striking distance.

A forest park covering an area of 133 hectares, Baiwangshan Mountain is the closest park to Beijing with a convenient location just three kilometres north of the Summer Palace. The mountain peak is 210 metres high and forest coverage is 95 per cent, earning it a reputation as the oxygen source for Beijing.

With quality facilities and less visitors, the mountain is a hidden treasure for fitness fanatics to enjoy exercise and red leaves to their heart's content. The paths in the park are well paved and comparatively flat with a gradual rise in degree, making them ideal for runners or walkers of different abilities.

The paths begin to fork at a small courtyard-style construction containing historical relics and a forest of stone tablets emblazoned with calligraphy. There is tiny difference between the two paths with one leading you through a scenic yet dusty route running through a small forest. The path's condition is fairly good and you can get off the beaten track to wander around in the woods.

The paths re-join after the detour into the small wood. It will take two hours at most for an ordinary person to complete the route. However, there is no need to feel discouraged if you think it is too easy for a fitness veteran like yourself. By simply increasing your pace from walking to running, the route is much more challenging and can yield fruitful exercise.

Preparation for Baiwangshan Mountain walking is quite simple. You are suggested to wear layers that can be easily folded or tied around your waist when you begin to sweat. Don't forget a warm top though, because as you approach the summit the wind can be strong and temperatures low. You do not need to wear your trail shoes as a good pair of quality running shoes should suffice. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water, you are about to embark on a pleasant day of exercise day which will leave you tired but refreshed.

Ticket: 6 yuan (US$0.74)

Tel: 6287-0640

Bus: T4, T6, 330, 933, 716, 718,752 and 968

(China Daily 11/03/2005 page10)