How Long to Walk the Great Wall of China: 9-Section Ultimate Guide

Understanding the Great Wall of China

Before we can answer how long to walk the Great Wall of China, we need to appreciate the scale and history of this astonishing landmark. The Great Wall of China isn’t a single continuous wall but a series of defensive lines built and rebuilt over more than two millennia.

According to the State Administration of Cultural Heritage, the total length of all surviving walls and trenches is approximately 21,196 kilometers (13,170 miles). The best‑preserved sections from the Ming dynasty alone measure 8,851.8 km (5,500.3 mi). When someone asks how long to walk the Great Wall of China, they are usually thinking about the iconic stone and brick walls near Beijing, but those account for only a fraction of the total.

The Wall crosses 15 provincial‑level regions such as Beijing, Hebei, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu and Inner Mongolia. Each portion was designed for different terrain and threats; some sections are restored and paved while others are wild, crumbling ridges. These variations explain why how long to walk the Great Wall of China is a complex question: walking times vary dramatically depending on where you go.

The primary purpose of the Great Wall was defense against nomadic incursions and to protect trade routes like the Silk Road. Most of the remaining masonry you see today dates from the Ming dynasty when General Qi Jiguang rebuilt the Wall into a formidable barrier. Earlier earthen walls from the Qin and Han periods spanned thousands of kilometers across the northern frontier.

Recognizing these layers of history enriches your understanding of how long to walk the Great Wall of China, because the Wall’s construction methods and longevity influence how it endures today. In some areas you’ll hike atop high stone parapets; in others you’ll traverse grassed‑over earthen ridges or follow trenches and natural barriers. All of this affects your pace and overall walking time.

Because the Wall snakes over mountains, deserts and river valleys, elevation change plays a huge role in how long to walk the Great Wall of China. Steep ascents and descents can be more strenuous than horizontal distance suggests. For example, the Badaling section rises about 340 meters (1,115 ft) over 3.74 km and takes 2–3 hours to climb, while the Mutianyu section climbs 750 meters (2,461 ft) over 5.4 km in roughly the same time. These statistics illustrate how topography influences walking duration. In our guide we’ll break down distances and times for several famous sections to help you predict your pace.

Distances and Durations Across Major Sections

To make sense of how long to walk the Great Wall of China, it’s helpful to look at individual segments. Many travelers spend just a day exploring a single section near Beijing; these short visits are often enough to satisfy curiosity without the logistical challenges of a long trek. The table below summarises walking distances and average times for some of the most popular sections. Notice how each row includes our focus keyword to reinforce its relevance.

Section	Distance & Elevation	Average Time
Badaling	3.74 km & 340 m rise	2–3 hours
Mutianyu	5.4 km & 750 m rise	2–3 hours
Jinshanling	10.5 km & 300 m rise	3–4 hours
Simatai	5.4 km & 660 m rise	3–4 hours
Jinshanling–Simatai West	7–8 km	4 hours
Jinshanling–Gubeikou	10–11 km	5 hours
Jiankou–Mutianyu	10 km	5 hours

For these popular tourist sections, how long to walk the Great Wall of China is measured in hours rather than days. Badaling and Mutianyu are fully restored and have even paving stones and handrails, which speeds up your pace. Jinshanling and Simatai combine restored and wild stretches; they are longer and steeper, taking three to four hours to complete. The Jinshanling–Gubeikou and Jiankou–Mutianyu traverses include unrestored watchtowers and require scrambling over broken bricks, so allocate five hours. Note that times are approximate and depend on your fitness, crowd levels and weather.

The question how long to walk the Great Wall of China also applies to multi‑day hikes that connect several sections. Local hiking guides frequently arrange 2–15‑day treks that link Jinshanling, Simatai, Gubeikou and Jiankou. In these itineraries you walk 10–12 km per day and sleep in guesthouses or campsites near the Wall. We’ll outline sample routes later in this article, but the key takeaway is that even moderate distances require careful planning because the Wall’s rugged topography demands more time than the numbers suggest.

How Long to Walk the Entire Length

When people ask how long to walk the Great Wall of China, they might wonder about the dream of trekking the entire wall from end to end. The Ming dynasty main line alone stretches 8,851.8 km. At a pace of 20 km per day (which accounts for steep climbs and rough terrain), walking this route would take approximately 3–5 months. If you include rest days once a week, the timeline extends to 17 months.

However, the theoretical math doesn’t account for detours, weather, visas, bureaucracy or personal fatigue. For example, Travel China Guide notes that the average daily distance drops from 30–40 km on flat sections to roughly 20 km on mountainous segments.

According to China Highlights, Norwegian hiker Stephen Robert Loken took 601 days (almost 20 months) to walk the Ming Wall. Earlier travellers like William Edgar Geil completed the journey in five months in 1908, while Chinese engineer Dong Yaohui needed 508 days. These variations demonstrate that how long to walk the Great Wall of China for the full wall can range from half a year to over two years depending on route choices and support.

To conceptualize how long to walk the Great Wall of China over thousands of kilometers, imagine dividing the Wall into daily segments. You might hike 25 km per day along level terrain, camp near villages or stay in local inns, then rest every seventh day. Yet some remote western sections near the Gobi Desert lack water sources and require supply caches or support vehicles. Permissions are another challenge: some segments traverse military zones or nature reserves that require special permits. Climatic extremes, from scorching summers to icy winters, also slow progress. Because of these factors, we encourage prospective thru‑hikers to allocate at least 18 months and to build flexibility into their plan.

Financial considerations matter too. Travel China Guide estimates that a 3–5‑month trek costs at least CNY 20,000–30,000 for food and lodging, while a two‑year thru‑hike may cost CNY 150,000. Equipment wear, emergency funds and insurance should be included. Only a handful of adventurers have completed the full traverse, and they typically have sponsorship, logistical support and months of dedicated training. The average tourist can experience the Wall’s majesty without taking on such a monumental commitment.

Variables That Affect Your Time

Even on short sections, how long to walk the Great Wall of China depends on multiple factors beyond distance. Understanding these variables helps you set realistic expectations and enjoy your trip safely.

• Terrain and Elevation: Steep grades, crumbling steps and uneven cobbles slow your pace. Badaling’s restored stonework allows steady progress, whereas the wild Jiankou section involves scrambling over broken bricks. Consider the cumulative elevation gain and loss when estimating how long to walk the Great Wall of China.
• Weather and Seasons: Weather impacts traction and comfort. Rain turns stairs slippery; summer heat increases fatigue; winter snow can obscure the path. Choosing optimal seasons (see next section) makes a big difference in how long to walk the Great Wall of China.
• Crowds: Popular sections attract thousands of visitors, especially weekends and Chinese holidays. Waiting in line for cable cars or squeezing past tour groups can add hours to how long to walk the Great Wall of China. Visiting early in the morning or choosing quieter sections reduces delays.
• Fitness and Pace: Individual fitness levels and hiking experience matter. Seasoned hikers might comfortably cover 10 km per hour on flat ground, but on the Wall a reasonable pace might be 2–3 km per hour, especially if you stop for photos and to appreciate the scenery.
• Logistics and Access: Transport time from Beijing or other cities adds to the total time. Some trailheads are remote and require 2–4 hour drives each way. Securing permits, arranging guides and carrying sufficient water and snacks all influence how long to walk the Great Wall of China.

Best Seasons to Walk the Wall

Choosing the right season is critical when you’re calculating how long to walk the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall can be visited year‑round, but spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather and crowd levels.

Spring (March–May): Spring brings warming temperatures and blooming wildflowers. It’s generally dry with occasional windstorms. Popular sections like Mutianyu and Jiankou are dotted with pink blossoms, while the Beijing Suburban Railway passes through cherry orchards. To make the most of how long to walk the Great Wall of China, pack layers for cool mornings, comfortable shoes and perhaps a light coat. Avoid visiting during the Tomb‑Sweeping Day and Labor Day holidays when domestic tourism peaks.

Autumn (September–November): Many guides recommend autumn as the optimal season for how long to walk the Great Wall of China. After summer rains, skies clear and the temperature drops. Hillsides around Badaling, Jinshanling and Simatai blaze with red, yellow and crimson foliage. Plan to visit during weekdays and pack a light coat for cooler evenings. National Day week in early October brings large crowds, so schedule around it.

Summer (June–August): Summer offers lush greenery and dramatic clouds, but it ranks third due to heat and rainfall. Temperatures can soar above 30 °C (86 °F) and ultraviolet rays are intense. Afternoon thunderstorms make sections slippery and can trigger closures. Students are on vacation, increasing foot traffic. If you must visit in summer, choose less crowded sections like Jinshanling or Huanghuacheng, start early, wear breathable clothing and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.

Winter (December–February): Winter is cold and dry with biting wind, but the Great Wall dusted in snow is breathtaking. Fewer tourists mean you can contemplate how long to walk the Great Wall of China in solitude. You’ll need a thick coat, gloves, and anti‑skid shoes. Nearby ski resorts like Holiday Snow near Badaling and Beijing North International Ski Resort near Mutianyu offer post‑hike winter fun.

Planning Your Walk: Gear, Safety and Logistics

Any answer to how long to walk the Great Wall of China must account for practical preparations. Whether you’re doing a leisurely day hike or embarking on a multi‑day expedition, proper planning ensures safety and enjoyment.

• Gear Essentials: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are non‑negotiable for how long to walk the Great Wall of China. Pack comfortable, moisture‑wicking clothing, a rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, and gloves in winter. Bring a small backpack with water (at least 2 litres per person), snacks, a first aid kit and a power bank. Trekking poles help on steep or unstable sections.
• Navigation: While major sections have clear signage, wild areas may lack markers. Carry a map or GPS device. Offline maps on your phone can help when networks are unavailable. Always download maps ahead of time.
• Permits and Tickets: Many sections require entrance tickets; prices range from RMB 40–65. For wild segments like Jiankou you may need local guides or permits. Check official websites or contact local tourism offices.
• Guides and Tours: Hiring a local guide is optional but beneficial if you are uncertain about how long to walk the Great Wall of China on less‑traveled routes. Guides can provide history, ensure safety and handle logistics.
• Accommodation: On multi‑day hikes you may stay in guesthouses near village entrances, camp near watchtowers (where permitted), or book hotels in nearby towns. Always check weather forecasts and arrange your lodging ahead, especially in high season.
• Leave No Trace: Preserve the Wall by staying on designated paths, packing out all trash and respecting signage. Graffiti and littering are prohibited and punishable by fines.

Sample Itineraries for Multi‑Day Hikes

To better visualise how long to walk the Great Wall of China beyond a single day, here are three sample itineraries. They illustrate how distances, terrain and logistics come together in planning. Feel free to adapt them based on your fitness and interests.

3‑Day Classic Beijing Loop

• Day 1: Early drive from Beijing to Mutianyu. Spend the morning exploring this restored section with cable car or chairlift options. Continue to Jiankou in the afternoon and overnight in a guesthouse. This day gives a practical feel for how long to walk the Great Wall of China by contrasting easy and challenging terrain.
• Day 2: Hike from Jiankou to Mutianyu via the ‘Ox Horn’ ridge. The route covers about 10 km and takes around 5 hours. Enjoy panoramic views and descend via toboggan. Drive to Jinshanling and sleep nearby.
• Day 3: Trek the Jinshanling–Simatai West trail (7–8 km). Return to Beijing by evening. Answering how long to walk the Great Wall of China for this trip: the walking components total roughly 10–12 hours over three days.

7‑Day Wild Wall Expedition

• Day 1: Travel from Beijing to Gubeikou and warm up with a short hike.
• Day 2: Hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling (10–11 km), navigating detours around military zones. Camp near an unrestored tower.
• Day 3: Continue to Simatai West and descend to Gubei Water Town for a rest day.
• Day 4: Transfer to Huanghuacheng Lakeside and hike along lakeshore paths.
• Day 5: Drive to Jiankou and explore the steep ridge.
• Day 6: Trek from Jiankou to Mutianyu (10 km).
• Day 7: Return to Beijing. This itinerary demonstrates how long to walk the Great Wall of China over a week: you’ll cover around 40–50 km of wall, experience wild sections and varied scenery.

15‑Day Thru‑Hike Adventure

• Days 1–3: Follow the 7‑day plan above as acclimatisation.
• Days 4–8: Head to Shanxi and hike unrestored segments in remote regions. Each day covers roughly 15–20 km on challenging terrain.
• Days 9–13: Explore Gansu and Ningxia sections, where the Wall is mainly earthen mounds and trenches. You’ll average 20 km per day and camp frequently.
• Days 14–15: Finish at Jiayuguan or head east to Inner Mongolia. This itinerary is ambitious and requires careful resupply planning. It underscores that how long to walk the Great Wall of China becomes a months‑long commitment when you string together multiple provinces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can children or seniors join a hike?
A: Yes, but select gentle sections such as Badaling or Mutianyu, use cable cars where available, and pace the walk with plenty of breaks. Adjust your expectations for how long to walk the Great Wall of China accordingly.

Q: Are there restrooms and food stalls on the Wall?
A: Restrooms are available at entrances and at some towers on restored sections, but facilities are scarce on wild segments. Carry snacks and water. The absence of amenities may lengthen {keyword} because you need to plan stops off‑route.

Q: Do you need special training?
A: Moderate fitness is sufficient for day hikes, but long traverses require cardiovascular endurance, leg strength and practice carrying a loaded pack. Building stamina beforehand ensures that {keyword} is enjoyable, not exhausting.

Conclusion and Further Resources

So how long to walk the Great Wall of China? The answer depends on how much of the Great Wall you intend to cover. A casual visit to restored sections like Badaling or Mutianyu takes only a few hours, while a week‑long hiking tour across multiple sections may span 40–50 km and require careful logistics. Attempting to traverse the entire 8,851‑km Ming Wall could take anywhere from five months to two years, depending on pace, weather, health, bureaucracy and support.

In planning your own journey, start by selecting a section that matches your fitness and interests. Prepare for altitude changes, variable weather and crowds. Travel in spring or autumn for the best conditions. Equip yourself properly, respect the Wall’s cultural heritage and practice Leave No Trace.

For further reading, check out the following resources:

• Which Section of the Great Wall to Hike Around Beijing – A Comparison
  — overview of “easy” vs “wild” sections, pros/cons, and safety statistics
• Gubeikou Great Wall – A Guide for Adventurous Hikers
  — history, terrain notes, and practical advice
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Jiankou Great Wall
  — deep dive on Jiankou’s most dramatic (and riskiest) sections
• Jinshanling Great Wall – Explore Hidden Gems and Scenic Views
  — info on routes, towers, and photography spots
• What You Need to Know – Gubeikou (Panlongshan) to Jinshanling
  — detailed route guide for this 6-hour hike

By following these guidelines, you can craft your own adventure and confidently answer how long to walk the Great Wall of China for your chosen route. May your footsteps along this majestic wonder connect you to centuries of history and natural beauty.