Route map
Schematic route · not to scale
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 · Beijing-Gubeikou-Jinshanling
Meet at your Beijing hotel at approximately 9:30 AM and drive to Gubeikou. The first walk links its old mountain defenses with Jinshanling, covering roughly ten kilometers. Stop to compare tower construction and the changing masonry. After a local dinner, the planned overnight is a watchtower camp with equipment supplied, subject to permission.
The 3AM opening day 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 · Simatai West
Wake early for the morning light, then explore the Jinshanling ridge toward the area commonly called West Simatai. The three-hour walk gives you time to inspect barrier walls and the contrast between older and repaired surfaces. Afterwards, transfer to the farm-style inn specified for the night. Vegetarian meals can be requested before departure.
Walking distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles. Walking time: 3 hours. Overnight: Great Wall Farmotel. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled drinking water is provided.
Day 3 · Mutianyu
Finish at Mutianyu, where restored ramparts and substantial towers offer a different walking experience from the previous days. Explore the section at a pace suited to your group and pause for views over the forested valleys. Walk down or choose an available paid descent option, then have lunch before returning to your Beijing hotel.
Walking distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles. Walking time: 3.5 hours. Meals: Breakfast and lunch. Bottled drinking water is provided.
Planning your visit
This version finishes at Mutianyu without requiring the Jiankou approach. Confirm the overnight inn, daily distances, guide language and any optional descent tickets in your quote.