Hiking the Great Wall: An Unforgettable Experience
Hiking the Great Wall is a bucket-list experience — walking along a structure that has guarded China's northern border for over 2,000 years. But with 21,000+ km of wall across China, choosing the right section is crucial. Here's our complete guide to the best Great Wall hiking routes.
Best Sections for Hiking
Mutianyu (Recommended for Most Hikers)
Mutianyu is the best all-around section: well-restored, less crowded than Badaling, and surrounded by beautiful forest. The wall here climbs steeply over wooded mountains — the views are spectacular. Difficulty: Moderate. Hiking time: 2-4 hours (one way). Access: Cable car up, toboggan down (a highlight!). Tip: Walk from Tower 14 to Tower 20 for the most scenic stretch without crowds.
Jinshanling (Best for Serious Hikers)
Jinshanling offers the perfect mix of restored and unrestored wall — wild enough to feel authentic, safe enough to hike without a guide. Watchtowers every 100-200 meters, steep climbs, and fewer tourists. Difficulty: Moderate-Hard. Hiking time: 3-5 hours. Distance: 10.5 km one way. The Jinshanling hiking tour includes transport from Beijing.
Simatai (Most Dramatic)
Simatai is the only section open for night visits and is famous for its steep, unrestored stretches. The wall here clings to knife-edge ridges — it's the most dramatic Great Wall experience. Connected to the Gubei Water Town resort area. Difficulty: Hard. Hiking time: 2-3 hours.
Great Wall Traverse: Jinshanling to Simatai
The ultimate Great Wall hike — a 10 km traverse from Jinshanling to Simatai, crossing both restored and wild sections. This takes 4-6 hours and requires reasonable fitness. Our Great Wall hiking tour covers this route with an expert guide.
What to Bring
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support (the steps are uneven)
- Water: At least 1.5 liters per person (there are no vendors on remote sections)
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, nuts
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Layers: Weather changes quickly at elevation
When to Hike
Best months: April-May and September-October (mild weather, clear views). Avoid: July-August (extreme heat), Chinese Golden Week (Oct 1-7, massive crowds), and winter (ice and snow make remote sections dangerous).
Mutianyu vs. Badaling
Badaling is the most famous and most accessible — but also the most crowded. Mutianyu is our recommendation for all visitors: it's just as impressive, far less crowded, and offers better facilities (cable car, toboggan, restaurants).
Book a Great Wall Hiking Tour
Our Great Wall hiking tour includes private transport, an expert guide, and the best routes. For the ultimate experience, combine hiking with a Beijing city tour.
