If you’re an advanced hiker craving the “real” Great Wall—raw, steep, and unpolished—then the Jiankou to Mutianyu trail is your dream. This 2-day route (near Huairou District, 2 hours from Beijing) mixes Jiankou’s wild, unrestored charm with Mutianyu’s well-kept paths and panoramic views. It’s not for beginners, but for those who want to trade crowds for history and adventure, it’s unbeatable.
Why Jiankou-Mutianyu Is a Top Hike
Jiankou isn’t open to regular tourists—that’s part of its magic. It’s the “wild Great Wall” photographers rave about: weathered Ming Dynasty bricks, narrow paths clinging to mountain slopes, and no handrails on the steepest parts. Mutianyu, on the other hand, offers a gentler finish with cable cars, restored watchtowers, and easier access back to Beijing. Together, they let you experience two sides of the Great Wall in one trip.
Day 1: Jiankou’s Wildest Spots – Beijing Knot to Heaven Ladder
Start in No. 5 Xizhazi Village (your base for the night). It’s a quiet village with small guesthouses (¥150–200/night, includes dinner) —perfect for resting before the hike.
Morning: Hike to Beijing Knot (北京结)
The first leg is to Beijing Knot (a key junction where Jiankou connects to Huanghuacheng Great Wall west and Mutianyu east). The path has no stairs—just dirt and loose rocks—so wear hiking boots with good grip. When you reach the top, look for the small pine tree: it’s Beijing Knot’s signature. The flat area here is great for a snack break or even camping (if you’re up for it).
Afternoon: Yingfeidaoyang (鹰飞倒仰) & Heaven Ladder (天梯)
Head east from Beijing Knot to Yingfeidaoyang—a section named for its shape (“eagle flying belly up”). It’s made of 3–4 connected mountains, and the climb gets serious here: a 5-meter high cliff with no safety ropes. Go slow, keep your hands free (no caps—they block your view!), and follow the faint paths left by other hikers.
Next comes Heaven Ladder (天梯), a steep, narrow stretch that feels like climbing a ladder. The drop-off is steep, so take every step carefully. By late afternoon, hike down a small side path back to No. 5 Xizhazi Village. Grab a hot meal (try local braised pork and millet porridge) and rest—Day 2 is long!
Note: Day 1’s sections (Yingfeidaoyang, Heaven Ladder) are the most dangerous. Skip them if you’re not an experienced hiker—stick to the moderate route: Jiankou → Small Potala Palace → Suobolou → Zhengbeilou → Niujiaobian → Mutianyu.
Day 2: Jiankou to Mutianyu – From Wild to Scenic
Start early (8 AM) from Heaven Ladder, heading east toward Mutianyu. The path eases up a little, but Jiankou’s rocks are still slippery—stay alert.
Key Stops on Day 2
- Small Potala Palace: A 10-meter bluff that feels like rock climbing. It’s steep, but take it step by step—you’ll be rewarded with views at the top.
- Zhengbeilou (正北楼): This watchtower is your “almost there” sign. From here, Mutianyu is just a few hours away.
- Niujiaobian (牛角边): A section that cuts across two mountain halves. It’s closed, so take the small detour along the wall—5 minutes later, you’ll rejoin the main path.
Finish at Mutianyu Great Wall
Finally, you’ll hit Mutianyu’s western entrance. Here, the Great Wall changes: restored bricks, handrails, and even cable cars (¥100 one-way) if your legs are tired. You’ll also start seeing more tourists—proof you’re back to a “developed” section.
To get back to Beijing: Take bus No. 867 from Mutianyu’s entrance to Huairou Bus Station (¥5, 1 hour), then transfer to a bus to Beijing’s Dongzhimen Station (¥15, 1.5 hours).
Practical Tips for Hikers (SEO-Friendly)
- Best Time to Hike: September–November (cool weather, red leaves) or April–May (wildflowers). Avoid summer heat and winter ice.
- Gear to Bring: Hiking boots, 2L water, energy bars, sunscreen, a jacket (mountain winds are cold), and a first-aid kit.
- Guides: Hire a local guide (¥200/day) if you’re new to wild Great Wall hikes—they know the safest paths.
- Accommodation: Book No. 5 Xizhazi Village guesthouses in advance (search “Xizhazi Village guesthouse for foreigners”).
Final Thought
Jiankou-Mutianyu isn’t just a hike—it’s an adventure. You’ll scramble up cliffs, walk where soldiers once stood, and finish with Mutianyu’s easy views. It’s hard work, but when you look back at the wild wall snaking over the mountains, you’ll know it’s worth every step. For advanced hikers wanting the “real” Great Wall, this route is a must.