Qinglong Gorge is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Recommended activities include hiking along the gorge’s trails, exploring the waterfalls, and enjoying a boat ride through the river. Visitors can also enjoy photography, birdwatching, and experiencing the tranquil surroundings.

Qinglong Gorge, located 20 kilometers north of Huairou District , is a natural wonderland that combines verdant mountains, lush waters, and the ancient Great Wall. The scenic area covers 150 hectares, stretching approximately 10 li from north to south. The majestic reservoir dam divides the area into two parts.
The Qinglong Gorge is a high gorge and a flat lake. Visitors can enjoy the scenery along the winding waterways by dragon boat, pleasure boat, or speedboat. In summer, they can swim or play football, volleyball, or sunbathe on the beach. The east bank offers fitness and entertainment options such as bungee jumping, rock climbing, and rappelling. Beyond the dam lies a tranquil stream, where boating and bamboo rafting are available. The canyon is flanked by majestic mountains and lush vegetation. A well-preserved Ming Dynasty watchtower tower stands atop the mountain, attracting countless visitors.
You can take the cable car from the foot of the mountain, and slowly go up the mountain to the sound of melodious music, and the beautiful scenery of Qinglong Gorge will gradually come into your sight: thousands of miles to the east, the Miyun Reservoir is a vast expanse of blue water, and to the south, the vast Jingdong Plain has thousands of acres of fertile fields as far as the eye can see; to the west, the setting sun, the ancient city of Huairou is far away, with mountains and rivers between them; to the north, the peaks, the winding Great Wall is still silent under the smoke of war and the green cypresses.
Best for summer vacation
Recommended play time: about 1 day
54 yuan/person
Scenic spot development period: March- November
Monday - Friday: 8:00-17:00
Weekends: 8:00-17:30
Qinglong Gorge is a beautiful natural area in Beijing, famous for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The gorge is significant for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Qinglong Gorge is located in the northern part of Beijing. The easiest way to reach the gorge is by taxi or private car, though it is also accessible by public buses from Beijing city center. The nearest metro station is around 10 km away, so a taxi or bus is recommended for convenience.
Qinglong Gorge is open year-round, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for Qinglong Gorge is around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local Chinese booking platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is advisable during peak tourist seasons, such as the summer months or public holidays. It is best to book a few days ahead to secure tickets and avoid long waiting times.
A visit to Qinglong Gorge usually takes about 3-4 hours. If you plan to hike, take photos, and enjoy the views, allocate more time. For a more relaxed experience, 2-3 hours will suffice.
The must-see highlights include the picturesque waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, the tranquil hiking trails, and the lush greenery surrounding the gorge. There are also several scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but foreign language guides may be limited. Visitors can also explore the area independently, as the trails are well-marked.
The best photography spots are along the main trails, near the waterfalls, and at the viewing platforms that overlook the gorge and river. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting for photos.
The recommended itinerary is to start with a scenic walk along the river, then head toward the waterfalls for the best views. Afterward, explore the hiking trails, and end the visit with a boat ride or relaxing by the water.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Qinglong Gorge, as it is primarily a day-trip destination for hiking and nature exploration.
The gorge can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons like late autumn or winter.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and rest areas. There are a few food stands selling snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, you may need to bring your own food or visit nearby towns.
While there are accessible paths, some of the trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy the open spaces and easy trails, but certain areas may require adult supervision.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be as common, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or if mobile payments are not available.
There are a few small cafes and food vendors near the entrance to the gorge. For more dining options, visitors can head to nearby towns or Beijing city center, where a wide range of restaurants are available.
Vegetarian options are available at the food stands, though vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s a good idea to bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
Accommodation options are limited near Qinglong Gorge. Visitors can stay in Beijing city center or look for local guesthouses or inns in nearby towns.
Nearby attractions include the Badaling section of the Great Wall, the Ming Tombs, and the Sacred Way. These can easily be combined with a visit to Qinglong Gorge for a scenic day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase local crafts, postcards, and small trinkets to remember their visit.
Taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip after visiting Qinglong Gorge. Public buses are available but may require transfers. If traveling back to Beijing, taxis or ride-hailing services are the most convenient option.