Hiking the Great Wall of China near Beijing is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world. From fully restored sections with smooth stone steps to wild, crumbling walls snaking across dramatic mountain ridges, there’s a perfect trail for every level of adventurer. Whether you’re looking for easy scenic walks, photography hotspots, or challenging off-the-beaten-path treks, this guide to the top 10 Great Wall hiking routes in Beijing will help you plan the ultimate journey.
1. Mutianyu Great Wall Hiking Route
The Mutianyu Great Wall is one of the best Great Wall hiking routes for beginners and families. Located about 1.5 hours from Beijing, this beautifully restored section offers wide pathways, sturdy steps, and 23 watchtowers to explore. You can hike uphill for sweeping mountain views or take the cable car up and walk along the ridge. The scenery is stunning year-round, especially in autumn when the hills glow with red and gold leaves. If you want a scenic yet comfortable Great Wall hiking experience near Beijing, Mutianyu is a top choice.
2. Jinshanling to Simatai Hiking Route
The hike from Jinshanling Great Wall to Simatai Great Wall is often called the most beautiful Great Wall hiking route near Beijing. This 5–6 hour trek combines restored sections with rugged, partially wild stretches, offering dramatic views and fewer crowds. You’ll pass numerous watchtowers, climb steep staircases, and walk along breathtaking ridgelines. It’s moderately challenging, making it perfect for adventurous hikers who want iconic photos without the heavy tourist traffic. Start early for sunrise or stay for sunset at Simatai for an unforgettable Great Wall experience.
3. Jiankou to Mutianyu Wild Hike
For experienced hikers seeking a wild adventure, the Jiankou Great Wall to Mutianyu route is legendary. Jiankou is unrestored, steep, and rugged, with crumbling bricks and dramatic angles that make it one of the most photogenic sections near Beijing. The hike is physically demanding, involving scrambling and narrow paths, but the reward is jaw-dropping scenery. Many hikers combine the raw beauty of Jiankou with the safer, restored paths of Mutianyu for a balanced experience. If you crave adventure and don’t mind a challenge, this Great Wall hiking route is unforgettable.
4. Gubeikou Great Wall Route
The Gubeikou Great Wall is perfect for hikers who want fewer tourists and more authentic ruins. This largely unrestored section offers a true sense of history, with broken towers and overgrown pathways stretching across remote mountain ridges. The hike is moderately difficult and ideal for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings and panoramic views. Because it’s less commercialized, you’ll need to prepare well with water and proper footwear. For photographers and history lovers, Gubeikou is one of the best off-the-beaten-path Great Wall hiking routes near Beijing.
5. Huanghuacheng Lakeside Great Wall
The Huanghuacheng Great Wall is unique because parts of the wall meet a beautiful reservoir, creating stunning reflections. This hiking route offers a mix of restored and semi-wild sections, making it suitable for intermediate hikers. The lakeside scenery is especially gorgeous in summer, when wildflowers bloom along the hills. You can hike along the ridge and then relax by the water afterward. If you’re searching for a scenic and less crowded Great Wall hiking route near Beijing, Huanghuacheng provides a refreshing alternative to the busier sections.
6. Badaling North Section Challenge
While Badaling Great Wall is the most famous and busiest section near Beijing, the north route offers a surprisingly challenging hike. The steps are steep and frequent, giving you a solid workout along with sweeping mountain views. Facilities are well-developed, making it convenient for first-time visitors who still want a physical challenge. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer views. If accessibility and iconic status matter to you, the Badaling north section remains one of the most popular Great Wall hiking routes in Beijing.
7. Juyongguan Circular Route
The Juyongguan Great Wall offers a convenient circular hiking route close to central Beijing. This restored section loops around a mountain pass, allowing hikers to complete a full circuit without retracing steps. The climb can be steep, especially on the eastern side, but the pathway is well-maintained and safe. Because it’s closer to the city, it’s ideal for travelers short on time. If you want a manageable Great Wall hike near Beijing that still delivers scenic mountain views and historic architecture, Juyongguan is a solid option.
8. Huangyaguan Great Wall Trek
Located slightly farther from Beijing, the Huangyaguan Great Wall is famous for its steep climbs and annual marathon. This restored section offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with fewer crowds compared to Badaling. The stone steps can be intense, making it suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels. The panoramic mountain views are worth every drop of sweat. If you’re looking for a more athletic Great Wall hiking route near Beijing, Huangyaguan provides both history and a serious leg workout.
9. Xishuiyu Wild Great Wall
The Xishuiyu Great Wall is a quieter, semi-wild section ideal for hikers seeking solitude. Often combined with nearby Huanghuacheng, this route features crumbling towers, uneven steps, and scenic reservoir views. It’s less developed, so you’ll experience a more authentic and adventurous side of the Great Wall near Beijing. Proper hiking shoes are essential, as some areas can be slippery. If you prefer peaceful trails without large tour groups, Xishuiyu is a hidden gem worth exploring.
10. Laolongtou Extension Experience
Though farther from Beijing, Laolongtou, known as the “Old Dragon’s Head,” is where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea. It’s a relatively easy walking route, perfect for travelers who want a different perspective beyond mountain ridges. Watching waves crash beside the ancient wall is a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere. Many visitors combine it with the nearby Shanhaiguan Pass. If you’re extending your Great Wall hiking adventure beyond Beijing, Laolongtou offers a memorable coastal finale.
Conclusion
From restored pathways at Mutianyu to the wild ridgelines of Jiankou, the best Great Wall hiking routes in Beijing offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re chasing epic photos, challenging climbs, or peaceful historical ruins, these top 10 hiking trails guarantee an unforgettable journey. Plan ahead, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to make the most of your adventure. No matter which route you choose, hiking the Great Wall near Beijing is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.