As one of humanity's most astounding architectural wonders, the Great Wall of China offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to embark on an unforgettable hike along its miles of poetic ridges and watchtowers. While the Wall stretches over 13,000 miles across northern China, some portions make for better trekking than others. This guide covers the prime sections to target based on accessibility, incredible scenery, and avoiding excessive crowds.
Jinshanling
Just two hours north of Beijing, the Jinshanling section provides one of the most enjoyable and scenic full day hikes along the Great Wall, at about 10 miles roundtrip. The challenging but rewarding path winds through restored yet authentic looking watchtowers and beacon towers, showcasing stunning mountain panoramas emerging on each turn.
While Jinshanling receives more visitors than remote spots, its sheer length prevents overcrowding. Come on a weekday to maximize peace and solitude. Crisscrossing the Wall here requires fitness and surefootedness, given the steep, broken steps - but provides a world-class workout and sense of achievement!
Jiankou
For daredevil adventurers seeking ruinous beauty, Jiankou fits the bill with its incredibly steep climbs over dilapidated yet photogenic ruins. The crumbling brick and jagged peaks cutting into the Wall here offer an atmospheric, romantic aura akin to something from Lord of the Rings.
Hardcore trekkers can attempt the dizzying "Eagle Flies Facing Upward" section, though climbing gear is recommended. Jiankou lies conveniently close to the more restored Mutianyu portion, so pairing the two in one trip is ideal. Just be prepared for complete remoteness without support services out here.
Simatai
Closed for controversial renovations until 2022, the extremely precipitous Simatai presents another strenuous but rewarding Great Wall conquest, known for its dramatic vistas. When it reopens, come prepared with gloves and sturdy shoes to scale sheer cliffside ascents and narrow "death-defying" ridges with mind-boggling drops.
Travel in small groups only, avoid visiting after rain, and exercise the utmost caution on precarious steps. While physically demanding, viewpoints like the Sky Bridge and Heavenly Ladder make it easy to see why Simatai is regarded as one of China's most vertiginous Wall treks.
Huanghuacheng
Surrounded by lush rural villages and Yanshan Mountain vistas, Huanghuacheng offers easier hiking along the Great Wall with far fewer tourists. A gondola ride can whisk you up to the Wall entrance here. From there, opt for scenic out-and-back walks or longer loops - left takes you to a serene lake section.
Don't miss the half-submerged wall stretching into the picturesque reservoir, creating mirrored reflections on calm days for stunning photography. With less steep inclines than other portions, Huanghuacheng appeals for a family-friendly introduction to the Great Wall.
Gubeikou
Adventurous trekkers are handsomely rewarded with memorable forested panoramas at Gubeikou, especially in fall when fiery red foliage blankets the mountainsides. Take the eastern route past Jinshanling on this remote section to soak up colorful views of the crumbling Great Wall remnants subsumed by nature. Keep eyes peeled for farmhouses and rural villages dotting the landscapes too.
Allow a full day to complete the 16 mile circuit through Gubeikou, and prepare for dicey terrain and some scrambling. The lack of handrails or cables and very few tourists ratchet up the degree of difficulty. But the scenery is arguably some of the Wall's most dramatic.
Mutianyu
While sections of Mutianyu have been restored almost to the point of commercialization, this portion still provides breathtaking vistas and enjoyable hiking only 90 minutes from Beijing. Ride a gondola up then stroll along the tree-framed stone walkways, admiring traditional watchtowers and snaking ridges stretching into distant mountains.
Descend via exhilarating toboggan ride for extra fun! With good trails and crowds that thin out past Tower 6, Mutianyu makes an accessible option for sampling the Great Wall's magnificence, especially for those short on time. Just aim to arrive early.
When it comes to trekking the Great Wall, each section provides uniquely commanding views and physical challenges. Avoid restored parts near big cities like Badaling for a true wilderness adventure in the hills. With smart preparation and timing, you’ll find the perfect portion matching your interests – gorgeous scenery, imposing ancient history, and a workout for the bucket list. Do you have a favorite Great Wall hike to recommend?
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