Why This Wild Great Wall Hike is Beijing’s Best Kept Secret
If you’re dreaming of a truly wild Great Wall adventure, far from the crowds and full of ancient atmosphere, the hike from Gubeikou (Panlongshan) to Jinshanling is your golden ticket. This 6-hour trail blends raw history, epic mountain scenery, and just the right amount of challenge.
Unlike the touristy Badaling or Mutianyu sections, this route lets you walk on unrestored watchtowers, trek through a military detour, and finish at the majestic Jinshanling with a rewarding cable car descent.
Starting From Beijing: Early Departure is Key
To beat Beijing’s infamous morning traffic, we hit the road at 6:30 AM sharp. With the city slowly waking behind us, we head northeast toward the ancient Gubeikou section, arriving around 9:00 AM.
Panlongshan, the eastern segment of Gubeikou, marks the start of our journey. It’s tranquil, overgrown, and stunning, what the Great Wall looked like before renovations. The hike begins on unpaved trails and narrow wall sections, snaking along ridgelines with sweeping views.
Hiking to the Iconic “24-Eye Tower” (二十四眼楼)
After about 1.5 hours, we reach the legendary Ershi-Siyiánlóu (二十四眼楼), or “24-Eye Tower”, named for its once 24 window openings. Though weathered by time, this landmark still feels commanding. From here, however, the trail hits a restricted military zone.
No worries, you’ll still continue your hike.
Military Detour to Jinshanling’s West Gate
Since direct passage is blocked, we descend the wall and take a scenic countryside detour, passing through local villages and farmland. After about an hour, we arrive at the West Gate of Jinshanling, a beautifully preserved section of the Wall where restoration and wilderness coexist.
From Taochun Tower (桃春楼) to Xiaojinshan (小金山)
Back on the wall at Jinshanling, we pass by Taochun Tower, then hike eastward past iconic landmarks like Zhuanduokou, Dajinshan (Big Jinshan) and Xiaojinshan (Little Jinshan). The paths here offer excellent photo ops with watchtowers perched atop dramatic hills.
Around 4.5 hours into the hike, we take the cable car down to the middle gate exit, saving our knees and enjoying sweeping views as we descend.
Return to Beijing: Perfect Timing
By now, it’s approximately 3:00 PM. After a satisfying and scenic hike, we head back to the city, arriving at your hotel around 5:30 PM, just in time to relax and reflect on an unforgettable day.
Tips for Hikers
- Fitness Level: Moderate – includes uneven paths and steep climbs.
- Total Duration: ~6 hours hiking, 11-hour round trip.
- Gear: Hiking shoes, sunblock, water, snacks, layers.
- Best Season: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October).
- Pro Tip: Bring a lightweight trekking pole, especially for the Jinshanling descent.
Final Thoughts: A Bucket List Experience
This Great Wall hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling isn’t just a trek, it’s a journey through time. You’ll traverse untouched ruins, explore strategic passes, and leave the crowds far behind. Whether you’re a history lover, adventure seeker, or photographer, this route delivers on all fronts.
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