Hiking in Bashang Grasslands, Datanzhen, China, July 26-28, 2024
Discover the natural beauty of the Bashang Grasslands, located just north of the Yanshan Mountains in Hebei Province, China. This breathtaking landscape offers rolling knobs and foothills, making it a hotspot for tourism, especially for those seeking an escape from Beijing's summer heat.
Whether you're a nature lover, an avid hiker, or a photography enthusiast, the Bashang Grasslands have something for everyone. Explore miles of hiking trails that wind through lush valleys, or experience the thrill of horseback riding, a popular activity among visitors. The surrounding valley is dotted with small farms cultivating rapeseed, cabbage, potatoes, wheat, and buckwheat. You'll also encounter pastoral scenes of cows, goats, and sheep grazing along the countryside.
The main city, Datanzhen, provides a quaint backdrop with its small population of around 11,000 people, adding to the area's rustic charm. For those in Beijing or visitors exploring Hebei Province, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Bashang Grasslands, and capture its essence through our curated photo gallery. Plan your visit and experience the untouched beauty of one of China's most picturesque regions.
I visited the area with a local hiking group, Beijing Hikers. The trip listing can be found here.
These pictures were taken with my iPhone and Fujifilm XT200. Light edits were made using Adobe Lightroom.
Farmland outside Datanzhen.
Sunshine pokes through the clouds highlighting wind turbines.
Sunlight breaks through the clouds.
Farmland to the north of the city.
Calf and Cow in the pasture.
This one had a gnarly horn.
The village drop off for the Day 1 hike.
Where are you from?
Down into the valley.
A brief glimpse of the 7th Ring Road.
Hills. Hills. And More Hills.
A verdant vista across the grasslands.
Looking west, a pit stop before a steep hike.
The steep hike before our destination at the top.
Stunning views as a reward.
Wow.
Horseback riding is very popular in the Grasslands.
Day 1 in finished. Bashang Grasslands kicked my ass.
Day 2 begins.
Stunning views across a wide flood plain.
Tiny houses among the knobs and farmlands.
More and more beautiful views.
Stunning views in Bashang Grasslands.
Clouds cast shadows across the valley.
Our trail off the ridgeline. Sheep down below.
A shepherd and his flock.
Sheep headed up the mountain.
Looking back from where we came.
Is that the old windows screen saver?
Clear skies and a VW.
Down the mountains, villages are lively.
Train rolls by overhead.
Yanqi Lake Dam in the hazy sunlight.