Winter hikes on the Great Wall
The Great Wall is the symbol of China, with a total length of more than 6,000 km. (3,729 mi.), ranking one of the most great architectures in the world. The Great Wall was first built in the Qin Dynasty. After that, the Great Wall was rebuilt by following dynasties. Most of the Great Wall that exists today was built in the Min Dynasty. Badaling Great Wall is the most well-preserved part of the wall, also the most symbolic part. If you want to find some places to visit in China, the Great Wall is the most valuable destination for tourists to see the majestic scene. This winter, take a tour of the world–class tourist site, the Great Wall, and make it a wonderful experience for your hiking in China. For more information about this, please look at WindhorseTour’s Beijing Hiking Tour.
“不到长城非好汉 (Pinyin: bù dào cháng chéng fēi hǎo hàn)”, is a famous Chinese phrase, meaning that the man who hasn't hiked the Great Wall is not a great man. The Great Wall is one of the most popular places to visit in China. It would be unbelievable to travel to Beijing without hiking in China on the Great Wall. Tourists who travel to Beijing choose the Great Wall as their must destination. For more information about Beijing tours, please refer to WindhorseTour’s Beijing In Depth Tour and Beijing Datong City Tour. Until now, President Nixon, Margaret Thatcher, and more than 300 world dignitaries have hiked the Great Wall. Just take a tour of Beijing and try this perfect hiking in China!
The Great Wall is one of the historic places to visit in China. Hiking in China on the famous Great Wall, tourists can see spectacular scenes. In winter, there will be a grand winter scene. It is something that only in North China that people you can see.
About other hiking tours in China, tourists are recommended to hike Mt. Emei in China's Sichuan province, which is one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in China. For more information about this, places look at WindhorseTour’s Hiking Mt. Emei in Sichuan.
Why you should go on Winter hikes on The Great Wall Of China
Special Aspects
- Pristine Beauty: The Great Wall under a blanket of snow presents a breathtakingly pristine landscape. The contrast of the ancient, winding wall against the soft, white snow creates a tranquil and picturesque scene, offering incredible photography opportunities.
- Solitude: Winter sees fewer tourists, providing a more serene and intimate experience of the Great Wall. The quiet, coupled with the expansive views, offers a moment of reflection and connection with history that is harder to find in the bustling tourist seasons.
- Clear Views: The air in winter is often clearer, providing unobstructed, panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. On a clear day, the visibility is unmatched, allowing hikers to fully appreciate the grandeur of the Wall and its natural surroundings.
Challenges
- Harsh Weather: Winter temperatures on the Great Wall can be bitterly cold, with strong winds and the potential for snowfall, making the hike more physically demanding. Preparing with appropriate clothing and gear is crucial to ensure safety and comfort.
- Difficult Terrain: Snow and ice can make the Wall's steep steps and uneven surfaces slippery and treacherous. Sections of the Wall that are already challenging due to disrepair or steep inclines become even more difficult to navigate.
- Limited Access: Some sections of the Great Wall may be closed to visitors in winter due to safety concerns related to adverse weather conditions. It's important to research and plan your trip accordingly to ensure access to open and safe sections for hiking.
These elements combine to make winter hikes on the Great Wall a rewarding experience for those seeking adventure, beauty, and a deeper connection with this iconic symbol of China's rich history and culture. The challenge of the hike adds to the sense of accomplishment and makes the stunning winter views all the more memorable.
How to Prepare for Your Winter Hikes on The Great Wall of China
Best Times to Visit During Winter for Hiking
- Late November to Early March: This period offers the classic winter landscape. January and February are particularly notable for the highest likelihood of snow, providing stunning views.
- Avoid Chinese New Year: It's advisable to avoid the Great Wall during the Chinese New Year holiday due to potential crowds and travel congestion.
Essential Gear and Clothing for Cold Weather
- Layered Clothing: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, add an insulating layer (like fleece) to retain body heat, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
- Waterproof Boots: Ensure your boots are insulated and waterproof to keep your feet warm and dry. Good grip is also essential to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
- Gloves and Hats: Protect extremities from the cold with insulated gloves and a warm hat that covers your ears. Consider windproof options for added protection.
- Hiking Poles: Useful for maintaining balance on slippery or uneven terrain. Look for poles with snow baskets in case of deep snow.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The winter sun can be surprisingly strong, especially when reflected off snow, making sunglasses and sunscreen necessary to protect your eyes and skin.
Safety Tips and Considerations
- Checking Weather Conditions: Always check the forecast before heading out. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and have a plan for seeking shelter if necessary.
- Staying Hydrated: Cold weather can reduce your sense of thirst, but staying hydrated is essential. Use insulated water bottles to prevent freezing.
- Recognizing Signs of Hypothermia: Be aware of symptoms like shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If you or your hiking companions show any of these signs, seek immediate warmth and medical attention.
Proper preparation not only ensures your safety and comfort during the hike but also enhances your overall experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique beauty of the Great Wall in winter.
Which Section to choose for winter hikes on the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall meanders from the eastern shores at Shanhaiguan to the western desert in Gansu, covering approximately 21,196 kilometers. Its geography includes mountains, plateaus, and deserts, offering diverse hiking experiences across its length.
Mutianyu
Mutianyu is one of the best-restored sections of the Great Wall, known for its accessibility from Beijing and stunning winter scenery. It features fewer crowds in winter, allowing for a peaceful hike amidst snow-covered watchtowers and trees. The cable car service is a bonus for those who wish to skip the strenuous climb. This could be the perfect section for your winter hikes on the Great Wall.
Jiankou
Jiankou is a great option for adventure hikers. It is renowned for its wild beauty and challenging terrain, which makes a ideal for those who want different types of hikes in winter. This unrestored section offers a rugged and authentic hiking experience. Winter adds an extra layer of difficulty with slippery paths, so it's recommended for experienced hikers only. The views of the Wall winding through snowy landscapes are unparalleled.
Simatai
Simatai Section is offering unique night hikes. You will have another level of experience if you decide to go on this section of The Great Wall.
It's the only section open for night visits, providing a different perspective of the Great Wall under the stars. The winter nights can be exceptionally cold, so dressing warmly is essential.
Badaling
The Wall of Badaling has special characteristics. The wall is built with big bricks or granites. The granites weigh more than 1,000 kilos. (1 ton.), hard to imagine how ancient Chinese people transported these heavy stones. The inner part of the wall is built by the earth and the stones, which are firm in use. The wall is 7 m. (25 ft.) tall on average, the thickness of the base of the wall is 6 m. (21 ft.), the top of the wall 5 m. (19 ft.) wide, where five 5 horses or 10 people walk side-by-side. There are some holes in the wall, which is used for shooting. Tiles pave the cover of the wall, limes as the fillings, neat in line, and grass hard to grow on the wall. All the structures are carefully designed for military defense. It shows the ancient Chinese’s great wisdom and talents. Hiking in China to the Great Wall is full of surprises in winter.
Tips for Navigating Crowds and Finding Serene Spots
- Visit Early or Late: To avoid crowds, especially in accessible sections like Mutianyu, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Explore Less Popular Sections: Consider hiking lesser-known sections of the Wall to find tranquility and untouched snowscapes.
- Stay Flexible: Winter weather can be unpredictable; be prepared to change your plans based on conditions and crowd levels.
Local Dining Spots with Warm Traditional Meals
What to do after a hike on a Gret Wall? We recommend trying some traditional Chinese meals to complete your perfect journey.
Many local dining spots near the Great Wall offer hearty dishes such as hot pot, where you can cook your own selection of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering broth. Other comforting options include Peking duck, dumplings, and noodle soups, all guaranteed to warm you from the inside out. Tea houses also offer a warm refuge, serving various teas alongside traditional snacks.
Tips for Relaxing and Warming Up After a Cold Winter Hikes
- Hot Springs and Spas: Some areas near the Great Wall, especially around Beijing, boast natural hot springs or spa facilities. Soaking in a hot spring or receiving a traditional Chinese massage can relieve sore muscles and offer a serene ending to an active day.
- Warm Clothing and Footwear: After the hike, change into dry, warm clothing and footwear to prevent chills and maintain comfort as you explore or dine.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Continue to drink warm fluids and eat nutritious food to replenish your body, especially if you've expended a lot of energy during the hike.
Combining the physical challenge of hiking with the pleasures of local dining, cultural exploration, and relaxation techniques provides a holistic experience that celebrates both the majesty of the Great Wall and the richness of Chinese heritage.
Going on winter hikes on the Great Wall is a new and remarkable experience. You will have a journey into the heart of Chinese heritage, offering a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. As you traverse this ancient marvel, enveloped in the serene tranquility of a snow-covered landscape, you experience the solitude and majesty of one of the world's most iconic landmarks. The preparation for such an expedition, from choosing the right gear to selecting the best trail, is as much a part of the adventure as the hike itself. It's an opportunity to witness the Great Wall's grandeur in the stillness of winter, a season that reveals the wall's pristine beauty and offers clear, expansive views.
After a cold and long hike, we recommend to our clients to go on a traditional meal nearby. That is another way to connect with the amazing history and tradition of China during your journey.
The Great Wall in winter is not just a physical journey but a passage through time, offering reflections on resilience and the enduring human spirit. In the words of the famous Chinese saying, to walk the Great Wall is to affirm one's greatness, making this winter expedition a truly unforgettable encounter with history and nature's sublime beauty.