1R1: First Light on Jinshanling’s Watchtowers

Arrive at Jinshanling before dawn to watch the first light reach the ridges and watchtowers. Its varied towers, defensive barriers, and inscribed bricks give photographers and hikers plenty to notice as the morning unfolds.

Our excellent tour guide will meet you at your hotel or the airport. It is going to be a 2.5 hours drive from Beijing to Jinshanling and West Simatai.
 

We will hike from Jinshanling's right-wing toward the west-wing, also called Simatai West.  The Wall will start to deteriorate gradually, making the hike progressively more challenging, but also interesting to observe and compare.
 

The Jinshanling Great Wall possesses an excellent opportunity to take in some fabulous views. Make sure to take your camera. You will not be disappointed! This part of the Great Wall has not been repaired since 1570. It is very remote, but it's what makes it so unique and a great chance to experience the nature and the wild parts of the Wall.
 

The West Simatai or Second Valley stretch contains original ruins and defensive barriers built perpendicular to the parapets. The architecture adds historical interest to this rugged part of the walk.

When we finally reach the park at Jinshanling, we will stop by a local farmer's restaurant for a late lunch before we head back to your hotel in Beijing or to the airport if you are laying over in Beijing. 

•  English-speaking guide with well-experienced tour guide; 
• Professional driver and nice vehicle; 
• General admissions; 
• Gourmet lunch included and free bottled water;
• Free membership card; 
• Hotel pickup & drop-off;
• Airport pickup & drop-off at a low fee;

PLATINUM PACKAGE

Private or Semi-private English Tour including private transfers, tickets and meal. Your guide will walk with you for every step from hotel pickup to drop-off and on the Great Wall! 

GOLD PACKAGE

Use our top-rated professional private transfer service and tour by yourself. You can pick Volkswagen Passat, Buick Minivan, or luxury Mercedes and BMW. Everything is the same as the Platinum Package except that you pay less.

Budget Version of This Hike (A6)

If you travel alone and are seeking a group tour for social and economic reasons, please sign up our A6 for the same hike but with less cost. Click below bullton for A6 details.  

•  Gubeikou-Jinshanling Sunset
• Jinshanling-West Simatai Sunset
• Jiankou-Mutianyu Sunset
• Huanghuacheng Sunset
• Group Sunset tour

There are many Great Walls to the north of Beijing, all of which were defensive fortresses that guarded the border at that time. They were built according to the terrain, and each segment has its own characteristics.  Check our full list of day hikes, and sunset, sunrise hikes.