Overview
Many visitors to the Great Wall lament the crowds. Let’s be honest, the Great Wall is one of the biggest attractions in China. Hundreds of thousands of visitors go daily. If you go to the sections that are most easily accessed from Beijing, yes, your part of the wall is likely to be quite crowded. However, there is a remedy for this.
If you have the time and skill, the Great Wall’s most visited areas are worth getting out of. While it may take longer to get to the starting point of the hike, having the Wall to yourself is a wonderful reward.
Some say that the walk between the Jinshanling and Simatai sections also gives the visitor a more “authentic” wall experience. My take is that any experience with the Wall is authentic, but if you are looking for breathtaking views in relative seclusion, combined with some exercise, this hike is definitely for you.
Location
Jinshanling is 87 miles (140 km) outside of Beijing. Simatai is 75 miles (120 km) outside of Beijing.
Story
See the Jinshanling and Simatai sections to see the stories of each part of the wall.
Characteristics
- 7.5 mile (12 km) hike
- Many watchtowers, including Watching Beijing Tower, where on a clear day you can see Beijing
- Very steep, rocky with loose stones at times
- Spectacular and impressive views.
Get there
You can certainly organize your own transportation to one of the sections. Check with your Beijing hotel about hiring a private car or taxi, or taking the public bus.
If you want adventure when you get there but not on the road (that is, you would rather not have to deal with transportation problems), there are a number of teams in Beijing who can organize a trip for you along with all the right equipment, a guide and transportation to and from Beijing. Two good tour operators that can take you for a walk on the Wall are:
- Excursionistas de Beijing
- Great Wall Adventure Tours
How much time to spend
If you plan to hike between these sections, you should plan the whole day around the hike. Leave Beijing early, wait at least 2 hours to reach your starting point, 4-5 hours to walk and another 2 hours to return to Beijing.
When to go
Spring and fall will offer the best views. The most comfortable time to visit is spring and fall. These two seasons will also give you clearer air and good views. Summer time will be very hot and humid so you need to be very fit (and hydrated) to hike this season. Winter can be beautiful with snow in the mountains, but it can also be treacherous.
What to wear and carry
Obviously depending on the season you visit will determine your clothing options, but here is what you need in any weather:
- Sturdy Walking Boots or Walking Shoes – Don’t underestimate the value of climbing and trekking despite the fact that you are on a paved wall. Once you get away from the more renovated parts the rocks can be loose and the steps can be quite steep.
- Backpack – You’ll want to carry a backpack to store extra clothes and water.
- Solar equipment: there is practically no shade along the wall. You will need adequate sun protection.
- Trekking Poles – You might even want these if you think they will make the ascents and descents easier.
Photos
See step-by-step photos of traveler David Turner in his image gallery: Hike from Jinshanling to Simatai.
