Route map
Schematic route · not to scale
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 · Beijing-Gubeikou-Jinshanling
Begin with the drive from Beijing to Gubeikou and a walk toward Jinshanling. The route covers roughly ten kilometers, combining weathered ramparts with the larger towers of the adjoining section. Pause for the landscape and construction details between climbs. A local dinner is followed by the planned camp, with the overnight site confirmed in advance.
The initial 3AA stage covers about 10 km (6.2 miles), allowing approximately 4.5 hours on foot. Overnight: Planned watchtower camp, subject to permission. Meals: Lunch and dinner. Bottled drinking water is provided.
Day 2 · Jiankou-Mutianyu
After the morning start, travel to the Jiankou–Mutianyu route. The walk connects rough mountain fortifications with repaired towers and walkways, providing a strong contrast within one day. Descend using the option agreed for your group. Continue toward Huanghuacheng and the countryside inn listed for the overnight stay.
Walking distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles. Walking time: 3.5 hours. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Overnight: Great Wall Farmotel. Bottled drinking water is provided.
Day 3 · Lakeside Huanghuacheng-Xishuiyu
Have breakfast at the inn, then follow the Huanghuacheng–Xishuiyu route above the reservoir. The lake changes the appearance of the defensive line, with surviving towers above the hills and lower sections disappearing toward the water. Finish the planned walk and lunch before returning to Beijing, with arrival generally planned for late afternoon.
Walking distance: 10 km / 6 miles. Walking time: 4.5 hours. Meals: Breakfast and lunch. Bottled drinking water is provided.
Planning your visit
This route includes one camping night and one inn stay, unlike the two-camp 3AB variation. Confirm the final accommodation, approximate hiking hours and any additional night listed after the return day.