Beijing Hikers - Hiking in the hills around Beijing since 2001

Hiking photos - Intelligence Valley, 2011/01/16

Intelligence Valley is a very popular route for people looking for a hike that is a little more relaxed than some of our tougher routes. This accessibility and the stream running down the valley made it a top candidate for our Seasons Series. In the winter, the stream freezes over, which makes for slippery – but fun – walking.

As water continued to trickle and freeze on top of itself, the stream expanded beyond its normal banks; much of the valley floor was covered in ice. Although we had to be careful walking on the ice, we didn’t have to worry about getting our feet wet! Looking into the cliffs and ravines above us, we could see where beautiful ice falls had formed.

After finishing the hike, we enjoyed a warm meal at a local guesthouse. Once we’d eaten our fill, we took a quick jaunt up to a nearby section of the Great Wall to appreciate the Ming-era structure. It was a great day, and we look forward to doing this hike again in the spring, summer, and autumn!

The hike starts at a village, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

The hike starts at a village, and then follows a stream through a canyon.

Setting out, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Setting out.

The group moves, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

The group moves into the valley.

The stream was frozen, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

The stream was frozen, so we had to move carefully over the ice.

Plants, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Plants poking out of the ice.

Gingerly crossing the frozen stream, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Gingerly crossing the frozen stream.

By the  interestingly-formed rock, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

We usually take a break by this interestingly-formed rock.

The stream , Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Since the stream was frozen, we could walk over it and explore behind the rock.

Taking a break, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Taking a break.

Making our way down the valley, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

Making our way down the valley.

The little cascade, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

The little cascade by the Dragon Pool was frozen.

After lunch, Beijing Hikers Intelligence Valley, January 16, 2011

After lunch at a local restaurant, we took a little stroll up a nearby section of the Great Wall to enjoy the fresh air, the views, and the blues.

More photos from hikes in the news section; more hikes on the upcoming hikes page.

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