Badaling National Forest Park: A Green Escape at the Foot of the Great Wall

A Symphony of History and Nature at Beijing’s Green Gateway

For travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Beijing, Badaling National Forest Park is an underrated treasure. Adjacent to the world-famous Badaling Great Wall, it offers a distinctly different “Great Wall experience” with ancient forests, thousand-year-old trees, and seasonal transformations. The park is not only a living witness to history but also a thriving ecosystem of Northern China.

History: A Millennial Dialogue Between the Wall and the Forest

The Ecological Shield of a Frontier Stronghold

Since the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), the Badaling section of the Great Wall served as a crucial military fortress, with the surrounding forest acting as a natural “second line of defense.” Drought-resistant pines, cypresses, and elms stabilized the terrain while providing timber and sustenance for the border guards. Today, over 300 ancient trees remain, including the thousand-year-old “Nine Dragon Pine” (Jiulong Song).

From Battlefield to Ecological Classroom

Designated a National Forest Park in 2004, Badaling National Forest Park is Beijing’s first national-level protected area themed “Great Wall + Forest.” Today, it is both a scenic retreat and a natural laboratory for researchers studying Northern mountain ecology.

Core Experience: History, Nature, and Spirit

1. Climbing the Wall: Touching the Pulse of History

The Badaling National Forest park’s Great Wall section is less crowded and more rustic than mainstream Badaling. Ascend North Tower No. 8 (888 m) amid whispering pine trees. For a concise history, visit the Great Wall Museum near the entrance.

2. Forest Strolls: The “Little Switzerland of the North”

Enjoy therapeutic forest trails with seasonal highlights:

• Spring: Wildflowers bloom across the hills.
• Summer: Pine shade lowers temperatures by 5–8°C.
• Autumn: Maples and Chinese sumac (Huanglu) paint the valley.
• Winter: Snow-laden branches create a fairy-tale setting.

Must-Visit:

• Red Leaf Ridge (Hongye Ling) — prime autumn foliage.
• Qinglong Gorge — secluded canyon for family adventures.

3. Visiting Ancient Trees: Listening to Nature’s Whisper

See clusters of ancient trees: “Nine Dragon Pine”, “Gazing at the Capital Pine” (Wangjing Song), and “Unity Pine” (Tuanjie Song), symbols of resilience and harmony. Locals tie red ribbons under these trees as blessings.

Interactive Tip: Sit quietly next to a tree for 10 minutes to experience the philosophy of “unity of Heaven and Humanity.”

Practical Travel Guide

• Getting There:
  • Driving: ~1 hour from Beijing center; parking ¥10/day.
  • Public Transit: Bus 919 Express to Badaling Great Wall Station + 10-minute walk.
• Tickets: ¥35 (combined Great Wall + Forest Park); student half-price.
• Opening Hours: 8:00–17:00 (extended to 18:00 in peak season).
• Accommodation:
  • Luxury: Commune by the Great Wall, artistic villas.
  • Budget: B&Bs in Badaling Town (¥100–¥200/person).
• Cuisine:
  • Rainbow Trout (Hongzunduyu), grilled or sashimi.
  • Farmhouse dishes, e.g., chicken with mushrooms, Tiebizi corn bread.

Why Visit Badaling National Forest Park

This park blends history, ecology, and cultural heritage, offering an experience distinct from crowded city landmarks. Visitors can hike, marvel at ancient trees, or enjoy tranquil forest walks. It provides a new lens on the Great Wall, revealing China’s philosophy of coexisting with nature.

Next stop, Badaling National Forest Park? 🌲🏯Interested in more green escapes near Beijing? Explore our Longqing Gorge Guide for full itineraries. Explore our Beijing Collection for curated itineraries, hidden gems, and detailed travel guides.