Bai Wang Shan Forest Park: Red All About It (1/7)

Wang Xiang Pavillion is a popular fall photo destination at Bai Wang Shan Forest Park. Photo taken Oct. 24th, 2013. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com/William Wang]

Fragrant Hills is the park that seems to get all the attention, partly because it boasts a history that dates back to 1186. But it also attracts plenty of queues and bustling crowds. For those who want to take a quieter hike with similar landscapes, flora and fauna, then Bai Wang Shan Forest Park is a pleasant nearby alternative: the fiery fall hues of its Pine Cyprus forest are no less majestic than that of Fragrant Hills.

Bai Wang Shan Park only dates back to 1992, so it doesn't pull in the history buffs, but the now orange and gold blanket of trees over the mountain slopes are as beautiful as they ever were.

Temples, pavilions, and lookouts are scattered about the park. When the Beijing air quality is reasonably clear, the park's highest point (210 meters) offers lovely views of the surrounding autumn foliage, as well as a panorama of Beijing suburbia opposite.

Bai Wang Shan Forest Park

Getting there: From subway line 4's Beigongmen station, take bus 697, 384 or 330.

Entrance fee: 6 yuan