Route map
Route illustration. Your guide will confirm the final trail, access and travel times before departure.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 · Jinshanling to West Simatai
Start on the Jinshanling and West Simatai ridge. The day follows tower-lined stretches where restored steps and older masonry appear close together. Take time to examine the construction details and look back along the line of hills. The planned first night is camping, with the actual site and permission arranged for your travel date.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: Planned Great Wall camp, subject to permission.
Day 2 · Gubeikou to Jinshanling
Turn to the Gubeikou–Jinshanling route for a different view of the same frontier. Gubeikou’s surviving defenses command an important mountain corridor, and their weathered condition contrasts with the larger towers nearer Jinshanling. Your guide explains the area’s history during the walk. The final itinerary identifies the second night’s lodging and transfer.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 3 · Jiankou to Mutianyu
Cross from Jiankou toward Mutianyu on the route suitable for the day’s conditions. The approach and unrestored stretches require steady footing, while repaired ramparts provide a clear change later in the walk. Descend at the agreed point and continue to the countryside inn listed for the night before the lakeside stage.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: Good Fortune Inn.
Day 4 · Huanghuacheng to Xishuiyu
Walk from Huanghuacheng toward Xishuiyu, following ridge sections and paths above the reservoir. The view of stone defenses dropping toward the water provides the journey’s final contrast. Pause where the line of the Wall and shoreline can be seen together, then descend for lunch and the return arrangements confirmed for Beijing.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch.
Planning your visit
The Jiankou day is the most demanding part for many walkers. The overnight base on Day 2, camping location and exact descent options should be settled in your written plan.