A Driver’s Paradise: Cloud Prairie, the Poetry and Distance North of Beijing
The first time I heard the name "Cloud Prairie," the image that came to mind was probably a green fairyland floating in the clouds. When I actually drove to this hidden gem located in Fengning, Hebei, I understood that the name was no exaggeration—this high mountain prairie, at an altitude of 1,750 to 2,192 meters, is often accompanied by clouds and mist, making you feel as if you are standing in the clouds. Starting from Beijing and heading north, it takes about three hours by car to reach this magical land. As the scenery outside the car window gradually changes from tall buildings to open grasslands, my mood brightened accordingly.
What attracted me most to Cloud Prairie was its well-developed self-driving loop. The roads here have been improved over many years, with most sections paved, so even ordinary sedans can easily handle the drive. Driving along the winding mountain roads, on both sides are rolling grasslands, and occasionally you can see herds of cattle and sheep leisurely grazing. It’s surprising to see landscapes similar to the African savanna so close to Beijing. Sparse trees with large canopies cast mottled shadows on the prairie, creating a striking visual impact. Rolling down the window, the fresh highland air rushes in, mixed with the fragrance of grass and wildflowers.
"You must go to the East Mountain Peak of Cloud Prairie in Fengning Bashang to watch the sunset"—this is no exaggeration. As the second highest point in the Bashang Grassland, East Mountain Peak offers a 360-degree panoramic view. Standing on the summit and looking far into the distance, the vast grassland stretches like a green carpet to the horizon. The distant mountain ridges are soft and graceful in outline, huge wind turbines slowly rotate, and herds of cattle and sheep dot the green carpet like scattered pearls. As the sun gradually sets, the sky begins to perform a symphony of colors—from bright golden yellow to deep orange-red, finally turning into romantic purple-pink. The clouds are dyed fiery colors, forming a strong contrast with the silhouette of the prairie, creating a breathtaking scene.
As a photography enthusiast, I kept pressing the shutter, trying to capture this ever-changing beauty. But I soon realized that no camera could fully reproduce the shock seen by the naked eye. So I put down my equipment and quietly enjoyed this natural performance, letting my soul fully immerse in this brilliance.
The next morning, we went to the Birch Valley, known as the "Fairyland Dream Realm." Entering this birch forest, I was immediately struck by its extraordinary and refined aura. Mist lingered among the trees, and sunlight filtered through the gaps in the leaves, forming mysterious beams of light. Walking inside, the ground was soft with moss and fallen leaves, the ears filled with crisp bird songs and the rustling of leaves in the wind, as if stepping into a mythical fairy forest. There was no urban noise here, only the purest sounds and scents of nature, making people involuntarily slow down, take deep breaths, and fully relax body and mind.
"Forest-Grass Boundary" is an amazing scenic spot in Cloud Prairie. This is the natural dividing line between the forest and the alpine grassland. Standing on the viewing platform, you can clearly see two completely different ecosystems coexisting harmoniously. On one side is a dense, lush forest; on the other is a vast, open sparse forest grassland, broad and magnificent.
The winding river bends like a silver ribbon, drawing graceful curves on the prairie. In the distance, a few wisps of cooking smoke rise, and several fine horses graze leisurely, composing a vivid prairie landscape painting. This primitive and pure beauty reminds one of classic Western movie scenes, yet it is more real and moving than any screen image.
Hiking along the Yangchang River is an excellent way to understand the Cloud Prairie ecosystem. The river is crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and the flowers, grass, and trees on the banks. The riverbank is rich in aquatic plants and serves as a habitat for many bird species. We were lucky to observe several rare water birds and a wary wild rabbit darting through the grass.
Our guide told us that Cloud Prairie has extremely rich biodiversity, including wild birch, rowan, river willow, spruce, and many other plants, as well as wild animals such as roe deer, foxes, pheasants, and squirrels. The well-preserved ecological environment makes this a natural ecological classroom, especially suitable for bringing children to get close to nature and learn about ecology.
The two days at Cloud Prairie felt like a purification of body and mind. There was no urban noise or pressure here, only the tranquility and beauty of nature. Standing on East Mountain Peak watching the sunset, the vastness of heaven and earth and the smallness of the individual made me re-examine the troubles and attachments in life; walking in the birch forest, the pure natural sounds cleansed ears and soul long polluted by noise.
Cloud Prairie is not only a geographical grassland but also a spiritual home where city dwellers can find inner peace. As Tao Yuanming said, "After being trapped in the cage for a long time, one returns to nature." Here, we found the most authentic connection with nature and rediscovered the purest joy in our hearts.
Opening Hours:
May 30 - October 7, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
Adults 100 RMB/person, children/seniors/students half price, free for under 6 or over 70 years old
Recommended Route:
Cloud Prairie (Entrance/Exit) — Birch Bend — East Mountain Peak for Sunset — Liulan Valley — Yangxin Pond — Spruce Slope — Jinliantan — Forest-Grass Boundary — Nine-Bend Mountain Road — Sea of Clouds Sunrise — Colorful Forest Slope — Chrysanthemum Peak — Dome Spring Snow — Orchid Slope — Shennong Grass Slope — Yangchang River
Itinerary Suggestions:
If time is limited, focus on the three highlights: East Mountain Peak, Birch Valley, and Forest-Grass Boundary
Photography enthusiasts are advised to plan at least two days to capture the beauty under different lighting conditions
For those who enjoy in-depth travel, combine with nearby Baili Tian Road and Rentoudun Wetland for a 3-4 day trip
Food and Accommodation:
The scenic area and nearby Datan Town have inns and hotels such as Tianlu Station, offering accommodation and dining services, mainly local farmhouse dishes, Manchu flavors, and prairie cuisine. Reservations are required during holidays.
Notes:
The prairie weather is changeable; prepare windproof, rainproof, and sun protection gear
Some areas have weak or no mobile signal; download offline maps in advance
Respect local customs; do not climb on aobao (stone cairns) or move mani piles
Protect the environment; take all trash with you, do not pick wildflowers or disturb wildlife