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Simatai to Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking

Simatai and Jinshanling are two neighboring sections of the Great Wall lying to the northeast of downtown Beijing. As Jinshanling is said to be the most beautiful section of the Great Wall and Simatai the steepest one, the Simatai to Jinshanling hiking route had been a prior pick of photographers and hikers. However, due to the extreme danger of the western section of the Simatai Great Wall, it is now closed to tourists for safety reasons, making this route no longer feasible. Nevertheless, you can hike separately along these two sections: first along the east part of Jinshanling to the west border of Simatai, then go to hike along Simatai, which will also offer you a similar original and authentic experience.  
Jinshanling Great Wall
The beautiful Jinshanling Great Wall
Simatai Great Wall
The historical Simatai Great Wall
 

How to Plan a Simatai to Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Tour?

Usually, most tourists spend two days completing this hiking trip.
 

Day 1: Beijing → Jinshanling Great Wall → Gubei Water Town

1. Travel to Jinshanling Great Wall from Beijing

Catch either the 06:58 or 07:12 train departing from Beijing North Railway Station or Qinghe Railway Station and bound for Gubiekou Railway Station. Upon arrival, hop into a taxi to reach the Jinshanling Great Wall. Alternatively, board the direct tourist bus that leaves Dongzhimen Bus Station at 08:00 sharp, heading straight to Jinshanling. Whichever mode you select, the commute typically spans around 2.5 to 3 hours.
 

2. Take a short break and have lunch near the Jinshanling Great Wall.

Once you've arrived at the Jinshanling Great Wall area, take a well-deserved breather. Stretch your legs, relax your mind, and then seek out a local eatery to savor a delicious meal. This pit stop will replenish your energy reserves for the hike ahead.
 

3. Hiking the Eastern Section of Jinshanling Great Wall

Start from the Middle Gate and walk along the footpath to the starting point of this hiking trail - Zhuanduokou Pass. As you press eastward, iconic landmarks like the General Tower, the majestic Big and Small Jinshan Towers will unfurl before your eyes. Each step is a journey through time, with history etched into the very stones beneath your feet. Finally, you'll crest at the East Five-Window Tower before descending along the path to the East Gate. At this point, you have completed the hiking section of Jinshanling. This hiking route is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) long and takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Simatai Great Wall
 Simatai Great Wall
Hiking on the Simatai Great Wall
Hiking on the Simatai Great Wall

4. Transfer to Gubei Water Town

Exit through the East Gate of Jinshanling and flag down a taxi. In about 40 minutes, you'll find yourself transported to the enchanting Gubei Water Town, a place where ancient buildings meet water villages.
 

5. Touring the Gubei Water Town

Upon arrival at the scenic area, you can experience traditional cultural practices such as wine-making and dyeing in the ancient town, savor delicious local cuisine, and watch acrobatics and martial arts performances on Wangjing Street. As night blankets the town, embark on a serene cruise, catching a distant glimpse of the illuminated Simatai Great Wall silhouetted against the night sky.
Gubei Water Town
Gubei Water Town
Beijing Opera
Beijing Opera

6. Rest and Recuperate

Gubei Water Town offers a plethora of accommodation options, with over 20 hotels and inns waiting for your patronage. To ensure a seamless stay, it's prudent to book in advance. Sink into a cozy bed, lulled to sleep by the gentle whispers of the waterways, ready to awaken refreshed for the next day's exploits.
 

Day 2: Gubei Water Town → Simatai Great Wall → Beijing

1. Get to the Simatai Great Wall

Take the shuttle bus from Gubei Water Town to Simatai Great Wall at 10:00. The journey only takes about 15 minutes.
 

2. Hike the Simatai Great Wall

Start from the mountain climbing entrance and walk along the uphill path to East Tower 2. Once there, continue eastward, navigating the rugged terrain until you reach Tower 10, and then return by the same route. The distance between East Tower 2 and East Tower 10 is only 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), but the path is fraught with steep inclines and tricky sections that demand both physical prowess and mental fortitude. It will take about 4 to 5 hours for the round trip.
Jinshanling Great Wall
Jinshanling Great Wall
Hiking on the Jinshanling Great Wall
Hiking on the Jinshanling Great Wall

3. Return to Gubei Water Town

Take the shuttle bus back to Gubei Water Town at 14:30 or 15:30.
 

4. Head Back to Beijing

At 15:50, hop on the shuttle bus bound for Gubeikou Railway Station. From there, transfer to the train departing at 17:20, which will whisk you back to either Beijing North Railway Station or Qinghe Railway Station. Alternatively, board the tourist bus that leaves Gubei Water Town at 17:00, heading directly to Dongzhimen bus station.
 

Notes and Tips for Simatai to Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking

1. This hiking route is of moderate difficulty and suitable for most hiking enthusiasts. Older hikers can use trekking poles for extra support.
2. For safety reasons, avoid stepping into unopened areas.
3. It’s advisable to bring some food and water to replenish your energy.
4. During the hike, act within your capacity and take regular breaks at intervals. Keep breaks short, typically 5 to 10 minutes. If necessary, you can use the cable car to go up and down.
5. Check the weather in advance and avoid hiking the Great Wall in rainy, snowy or windy weather.

More Great Wall Hiking Routes:

2 Days Mutianyu & Simatai Hiking from $426
1 Day Private Simatai & Gubei Town from $139
1 Day Badaling Great Wall Hiking from $89
1 Day Private Guided Mutianyu Hiking from $109
- Last updated on Jan. 08, 2025 by Sherry Xia -