Pilgrims have climbed Miaofeng Mountain for hundreds of years, in an attempt to reach the Goddess temple at its holy summit. Built during the Yuan Dynasty ( 1279 – 1368 ) the temple is now the premier destination for Beijing’s cyclists, as they take on the city’s most challenging climb, located just outside the western suburbs.

At the weekend, the main road to the summit is full with eager cyclists, all trying to conquer this very challenging climb. Whether it’s a climb for the first time rider, or it’s an experienced rider chasing the 1 hour summit marker, Miaofengshan is always a challenging ascent. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to take on this Beijing classic.