Chongqing's best autumn walks

Tieshanping Forest Park. [Photo by Zhou Shuman]

With autumn's arrival, Chongqing unveils its most picturesque season for walks. From captivating forest trails to lively urban strolls, here are eight must-visit routes that showcase the city's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry.

Built along the dramatic cliffs of Tongluo Gorge, the 5-kilometer Tieshanping trail offers breathtaking river views and is perfect for family outings, with a nearby children's park. Visitors can also savor the local specialty, Sichuan pepper chicken.

Visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk alongside babbling streams and through serene pine forests on the 5-km Yufeng Mountain route.

Huobite Forest trail, which stretches approximately 8 km, is renowned for its dawn redwood forests, ancient stone bridges, canals, reed marshes, and picturesque countryside views. The trail is particularly photogenic when the dawn redwood forests turn red from November to December.

The Wulao Mountain trail, about 10 km long, combines lush forest and rural landscapes, with stone paths and roads and scenic lakeside views.

A 3-km path in Jiuqu River Wetland Park offers sweeping views of the Jialing River's landscape and is especially striking at sunset.

Zhaomu Mountain Forest Park's 8-km path has dense forest cover and easy access, offering a refreshing, relaxing escape.

From the bustling Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street to the artistic Beicang Cultural Street and Taping community, this 2-km route blends urban vitality with artistic charm, with unique shops and cozy cafes.

Beibin Road, approximately 4 km, features the Raffles City complex. Both daytime and nighttime offer beautiful scenery, making it ideal for a leisurely walk.

Autumn scenery at Jiuqu River Wetland Park. [Photo by Hu Yifan]