"Autumn Exclusive! Arxan Forest Park 3-Day Check-in Guide"

When the autumn breeze sweeps across the Greater Khingan Range, Arxan National Forest Park sheds its lush greenery and dons a golden attire. From September to October, this place is like a palette favored by the gods—volcanic crater lakes reflecting colorful forests, streams flowing through woods, and misty hot springs, each scene naturally filtered like a movie. This newly compiled check-in guide covers core attractions, itinerary planning, and practical tips to help you unlock the ultimate romance of autumn in the northern lands. Key Preparations Before the Trip Best Viewing Period: Mid-September to early October is the golden period when leaf colors are most saturated, with the birch forests shining golden and the maple leaves contrasting beautifully with pine needles; Dressing Tips: The temperature difference between day and night can reach 20°C, so we recommend "onion-style dressing"—a moisture-wicking base layer, a sweater or fleece mid-layer, and a windproof, waterproof shell or light down jacket; wear non-slip hiking boots, paired with a warm scarf and gloves to cope with chilly mornings and trail walking. Essential Items: Signal is weak in the park, so download offline maps in advance; UV rays are strong, bring high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses; mosquitoes are still present, pack insect repellent; a thermos and energy snacks (chocolate, nuts) are must-haves for long hikes. Core Attractions Check-in Guide Must-Visit Natural Wonders Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): The iconic attraction of Arxan, a high-altitude lake formed by volcanic eruptions, shaped like a water droplet nestled in the forest sea. Climbing to the top requires ascending 998 steps, which is somewhat challenging, but the panoramic view of the lake reflecting colorful forests and blue sky instantly heals all fatigue. It is recommended to arrive before 9 a.m. to avoid crowds and backlighting; wearing light-colored clothes makes photos more striking. Dujuan Lake (Rhododendron Lake): In autumn, Dujuan Lake sheds its spring flower sea and welcomes the tranquil beauty surrounded by colorful forests. Shitanglin (Stone Pond Forest): Known as the "Volcanic Geology Museum," it showcases Asia's largest volcanic lava landform. The black-brown basalt undulates like waves, with resilient pines and moss growing in the rock crevices, creating a unique "stone sea pine waves" landscape. The trail is 2 kilometers long; wearing hard-soled shoes is safer. You may encounter squirrels along the way—please be cautious when feeding them. Budong River (Non-freezing River): Even when autumn temperatures drop below zero, this river continues to flow gently. In the early morning, mist rises from the river surface, paired with golden birch trees on the banks and cattle feeding in the water, forming a fairy-tale ink painting. The best photo time is from 6:30 to 8:00 a.m.; be sure to wear heavy clothing to withstand the biting cold wind by the river. Santang Gorge: The upper canyon of the Haraha River, composed of Woniu Pool, Hushi Pool, and Yuexin Pool. The river water is crystal clear, flowing through rocks, with dense colorful forests on both sides. The plank road hike is 1.5 kilometers long, relatively easy, suitable for family outings. There are multiple viewing platforms along the way to capture panoramic views of the gorge and close-ups of the stream. 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary Plan Day 1: Volcanic Wonders Tour Arrive at the park in the morning, first check in at the Tianchi service area, drop off your luggage, then head straight to Tianchi to check in at the core attraction while the crowd is light and lighting is good; have lunch at the service area restaurant, recommended dishes include stir-fried mountain mushrooms with meat and homestyle tofu; in the afternoon, visit Shitanglin to explore volcanic lava landforms, then hike Santang Gorge to enjoy the stream; return to the service area in the evening, have dinner with iron pot stew—pork ribs, green beans, and corn cakes stewed together, warming both heart and stomach. On clear nights, go outside to admire the dazzling starry sky free from light pollution. Day 2: Lakes, Mountains, and Hot Spring Healing Depart at 6:30 a.m. to Budong River to photograph the morning mist wonderland; return to the service area around 8 a.m. for breakfast, then head to Dujuan Lake for a lakeside walk or a boat ride to enjoy the scenery; have lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring fresh fish soup; in the afternoon, drive to Arxan city and check in at a mountain-view guesthouse (rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows are recommended for mountain views), rest briefly, then visit the China Hot Spring Museum to soak in mineral-rich hot springs to relieve accumulated fatigue; for dinner, try the city specialty—Bo Li Ge ice-boiled lamb, made with Arxan spring water, served with sand chive dipping sauce, tender and free of gamey taste. Day 3: Cultural Experience and Return In the morning, go to Bailang Peak, climb to the top for a panoramic view of the forest sea, then visit Bailang Deer Park to interact and take photos with the deer; have lunch near the deer village, tasting hand-held meat—plain boiled grassland lamb dipped in chive flowers and fermented bean curd, experiencing authentic Inner Mongolian flavors; in the afternoon, go to Wuli Spring to collect mineral water, visit the "Arlu" cultural and creative store to buy souvenirs (recommended blueberry dried fruit and mushroom sauce), then check in at Arxan Railway Station to end the trip and return. Autumn in Arxan is brief and precious; every fallen leaf, every wisp of morning mist, every play of light and shadow is worth cherishing. Follow this guide to check in at popular spots and discover hidden gems, making this autumn journey an unforgettable travel memory in your heart.