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Explore the vibrant colors of the hills, enjoy hiking trails, take a guided tour to learn about the geological formation, and engage in photography to capture the unique landscape. The area is also ideal for picnics and relaxation in nature.
The Wucai Shallow Mountain National Hiking Trail is located in the northeastern part of Shunyi District, within the mountainous region of the Yanshan Mountains. The first phase of the project spans 80 kilometers, with a 60-kilometer main route and a 20-kilometer branch route. It features waterfront, secluded forests, cultural heritage, expansive landscapes, and a pristine environment.
The Longwantun Trail Project consists of six sections: Section 1 is the Anlilong Scenic Area Leisure Trail, a leisure and fitness trail that blends rural and mountain environments. Section 2 is the Baimaoyu Scenic Area Parent-Child Trail, a trail primarily focused on family activities. Section 3 is the Yuemingjiangou Scenic Area Sports Trail, a trail focused on outdoor activities. Section 4 is the Jiaozhuanghu Scenic Area Scenic Trail, a trail themed on revolutionary education and historical culture. Section 5 is the Beidagou Scenic Area Science Trail, a trail focused on forest health and youth science education. Section 6 is the Longwanshanju Scenic Area Health Trail, a health trail designed to complement a high-end mountain resort.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate, suitable for travel year-round
2-3 hours
free
All day
Dancing Colorful Hills is known for its unique geological formations, where the rocks and hills display vibrant colors, resulting from natural mineral deposits. It's an important geological site and a stunning natural wonder of Beijing, attracting both nature lovers and photographers.
Located in the outskirts of Beijing, in the Mentougou District. You can take a bus or taxi from the city center. The nearest subway station is in the western part of Beijing, from where a bus can take you to the hills. It’s a scenic and peaceful area, so walking or cycling can also be enjoyable if you're nearby.
The site is open year-round, typically from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the colors of the hills are most vibrant. Avoid summer weekends, as it can get crowded.
The entrance fee is relatively affordable. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance or online through various travel booking platforms in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
It’s not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons (like national holidays). A few days in advance is ideal for guaranteed access during busy times.
You will need about 2-3 hours to fully explore the Dancing Colorful Hills, including a short hike and time for photography. If you plan to do a guided tour or explore the nearby areas, you might want to allocate more time.
The main attraction is the colorful hills themselves, along with the surrounding trails and lookout points. There are also some peaceful areas for resting and panoramic spots for capturing the beauty of the landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides in multiple languages are also offered at the entrance. These are particularly helpful for understanding the geology and history behind the colorful hills.
The best viewpoints are from the higher elevations, where you can capture the sweeping views of the colorful hills and the surrounding landscape. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography.
Start by walking through the entrance, follow the main trail towards the colorful hills, and take your time to enjoy the views from different angles. Stop at the designated lookout points for the best photographs. If you're short on time, a quick loop around the main trail will still give you a good experience.
Night visits are not typically available as the park closes in the evening. There are no light shows, but the colorful hills are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, making these the best times for photography.
The site can be crowded during weekends and holidays, particularly in the summer. The least crowded times are weekdays in the early mornings or later in the afternoon during the off-season (spring or autumn).
Basic facilities like toilets, water fountains, and rest areas are available. There are a few food stalls near the entrance, but there are no large restaurants. It’s advisable to bring your own snacks and water if you plan to explore for several hours.
The trails are relatively easy for families and children, but elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges may find some areas difficult due to uneven terrain and elevation changes. Accessible paths are limited.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted at the entrance and for purchases. Cash is rarely required, but it is advisable to carry some small change for minor purchases.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance to the site. For a wider selection, you can travel to the Mentougou District, where more options are available.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants near the park, though the selection might be limited. Halal food can be found in Beijing's larger districts, but not in immediate proximity to the Dancing Colorful Hills.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels available in the Mentougou District. For more luxury options, you can return to central Beijing, where a wide range of accommodations are available.
Nearby attractions include the Baihuashan National Forest Park and Juyongguan Great Wall. These can be easily combined in a day trip for those interested in nature and historical landmarks.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, selling items like local handicrafts, miniatures of the colorful hills, and traditional Chinese souvenirs like tea sets and silk products.
The best transportation options are to either return to Beijing by taxi or use public transportation (bus or subway). You can also rent a bicycle for a more scenic trip to nearby parks or attractions.
