With the dim, cold winter on the horizon, now is as good a time as any to get outside and run in Beijing. However, looking for a good running route in the capital can be tough. Even a simple jog can turn into a real-life game of frogger—dodging smoke-coughing cars, bicycles, unyielding pedestrians, and dozens of jianbing carts. Then there’s the air quality. Not always stellar, to say the least. But before you pack up hope and head indoors to pound away on a treadmill, here are five places in Beijing where running is a pleasant experience.

1. Olympic Forest Park (奥林匹克森林公园)

For the serious runner who wants to escape the bustle and fumes of the city, the Olympic Forest Park, Beijing’s largest park, is a welcome retreat. It’s perhaps the only in Beijing with marked off paths for walkers, runners, and bicyclists, with a concrete trail extending 3k, 5k, and 10k. Because vehicles are banned from entering, and the trees and greenery soak up some of the surrounding air pollution, even on heavily polluted days in Beijing the environment is more enjoyable here. There are artificial hills, lakes, and some of the strangest modern artwork in Beijing. It’s free to enter, no awkward stopping to pull a wad of bills out of your running tights. Even on weekends its traffic is light enough to enjoy running without tripping over anyone.

Entry: Free

Opening Hours: Daily, 06:00-20:00

Tel: 86 10 8497 2647

Add: Anli Road, North of the Bird Nest, Chaoyang District, Beijing

北京朝阳区安立路(鸟巢北侧)

How to get there: take Line 8 to South Gate of Forest Park Station, Exit D