GREAT WALL WALKS
We have covered many amazing hikes in Hong Kong over the years, but the choice of one day adventures goes beyond the borders. In this series we take on five hikes outside Hong Kong that are easy to reach and offer something different.
Hushan, Dandong
Hushan, Dandong: DJ and Andy set off along China’s Great Wall in the first episode of a series of eight walks along the 14th Century Ming Wall that will take them from the North Korea border in Dandong right into the heart of the Gobi Desert. DJ and Andy walk 3.5 km on the Wall at Hushan and then take a boat trip along the Yalu river to look into North Korea.
Distance: 25 km | Time: 8 hours | Difficulty: 2
Simatai
Simatai is the wildest and most dangerous of the Great Wall hikes we do in this series. It also offers some of the most spectacular scenery. This 10km hike looks simple from the outside but puts up some major challenges as DJ, Andy and Jack take it on during a warm April day.
Distance: 8 km | Time: 8 hours | Difficulty: 5
Gubeikou
At just over 16 km this is the longest and possibly the toughest of our Great Wall hikes in this series. The effort is rewarded with some of the most spectacular views along the Wall, some of the most important historical sites and a good mix of wild and reconstructed Wall walking.
Distance: 17 km | Time: 9 hours | Difficulty: 4
Mutianyu
This 8.5-km walk has the best of the wild and reconstructed Walls. If we were to recommend one hike on the Great Wall near Beijing, this would be it. But you probably need a guide as finding the start and negotiating your way along the wild Wall has its challenges. The views from the first half are stunning and the reconstructed Wall at Mutianyu is well-maintained, provides some great historic perspective, not too crowded, and has a fun way to get on and off the Wall.
Distance: 12 km | Time: 5 hours | Difficulty: 3
Huanghuacheng, Guangzhou
Nestled on the edge of Guangzhou, Baiyun Mountain offers a surprisingly immersive escape into nature—just a short train ride from Hong Kong. This hike blends ornamental parkland, dense jungle trails, and a stair-filled climb to Moxing Summit, where panoramic views stretch across one of China’s largest cities. With multiple route options and a mix of crowds and solitude, it’s a day hike full of contrasts and unexpected beauty.
Distance: 11 km | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: 3
Badaling
You may need to get in the right mindset for this walk, but once there it is well worth it. The 9 km walk is reasonably challenging, the negotiating tourists is extremely challenging. Nearly 10 million people visit this section of the Wall every year so expect to be swamped. That said it’s a great place to people watch the locals go through their right of passage to conquer this remarkable historical achievement.
Distance: 9 km | Time: 5 hours | Difficulty: 3
Juyong Pass
This is one of the shortest of our Great Wall hikes, but not the easiest. Starting with a straight 300 m climb the rouite takes you in a defensive loop around the valley. First up one side and then back down before taking on the other side and back down. Perfect for a half day hike and a chance to experience the Great Wall close to Beijing centre.
Distance: 4 km | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: 1
Jiayuguan
We have had many unforgettable experiences along the Ming Great Wall of China but in this episode we reach the end and finish our journey. There is nothing disappointing about the final stretch as we pass the Overhanging Wall with immense desert views, through to the Jiayuguan Fort, the most impressive we have seen along the Wall and end up at a cliff where the Wall just stops. For any Great Wall enthusiast, as we have become, this section is a must!
Distance: 10 km | Time: 3 hours | Difficulty: 2
Ten Hiking Tips
In this video, we take you through our incredible journey along the Great Wall of China, sharing essential tips and insights for anyone planning a similar adventure. From using apps like Trip.com for booking transportation and accommodations, to navigating the challenges of the Wall’s steep terrain, we cover everything you need to know for a successful trip. We’ll also highlight the importance of proper gear, staying connected, and being prepared for unpredictable weather.
*Disclaimer: Drone and Phone activities are undertaken after completing a risk assessment and where necessary under the supervision of professional guides. This video is not to be considered as a guide. All outdoor activities are carried out at your own risk and we take no responsibility nor assume liability for your safety. We recommend using a professional guide for all outdoor activities that involve risk, or are beyond your current level of expertise.
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