Walk or Hike The GREAT WALL

The Great Wall is one of the premier sites that people want to visit in China. There are several places to visit for just a short walk or hikes that can be moderate to more difficult. I will try to give you a view of several sections. Badaling section is where the group tours go as it is the closest section to Beijing and buses go there on the freeway. Easy walks and light hiking can be done at this area. Mutainyu is my favorite section with few if any buses, much less crowded and a good place for walking or a light hike with a cable car to take you up onto the Wall. The Simatai section is a favorite section for hikers for moderate hiking with some sections not repaired. You can hike from Simatai to Jinshanling which takes about 3 to 4 hours and is about 40 miles north of Beijing. If you are into more difficult hiking near the same area there is a 3 to 4 hour loop of hiking from Huanghua to Zhuangdaokou Guar that is considered a Wild Section which has not ever been repaired but only experienced hikers should attempt this hike. Good sturdy walking or hiking shoes should be worn and it tends to be windy and cooler than in the city. A good day pack with snacks and water is a good idea too. For more information on visiting the Great Wall, email me at interlak@eskimo.com