Huairou- Sihai Heaven

Huairou, Beijing, China

Route Overview

Serk Cycling

Road Rides in Beijing

44 mi.
3,984 ft.

One of the best routes Beijing has to offer. Quiet back roads that snake through a stunning valley and up the side of a mountain to Dong Bei Kou. If you look carefully on mountain ridges on the route you will spot remains of the Great Wall.

Route Details

A fully paved route with one main climb which you tackle from both sides. The route is short but the climbs are hard so be prepared for some work. The road surface is in pristine condition and flows beautifully the whole length making every minute of this journey a pure pleasure on two wheels.

Route

  • Park in the designated carpark at the start point.
  • The ride starts with a short descent followed by a long sinuous downhill for 12km. At this point you turn left towards Sihai direction.
  • The main point of interest is the Dong Bei Kou summit point. Here is an excellent location to stop and take some panoramic photos.
  • The Dong Bei Kou Front Side climb (your first climb) is around 12km long. It starts out relatively easy with 2% grades and then about the 22km point it ramps up for a few switchbacks. The second half of the climb eases up slightly which is a welcome relief.
  • Dong Bei Kou Back Side climb is much tougher than the front side so save some energy for the climb back up.
  • The turn around point is a fuel station with an attached convenience store - buy your water and food supplies from here.
  • Sihai has a simple restaurant serving basic Chinese dishes. It's on the corner.
  • Look out for small rock falls on the descents particularly in this area.

Notes

  • The road is usually open all year round but mid winter is likely to have some snow. Best time of the year to ride it is Sept - Late October
  • For a bit of spice start the ride on the previous climb which will add about 18km, 400m more climbing and a gorgeous descent.
  • Compact crank recommended
  • Fitness level - Moderate level fitnes is required to enjoy this climb
  • There is limited food and water available on the route. Water, softdrinks etc can be purchased at the mid ride point.