Liam
July 14, 2025
Last week, I finally took on the Great Wall hiking challenge at the Great Wall of the Odyssey. I started at 10 a.m. after arriving by bus and dedicated a full three hours to the climb—two hours to the 8th floor of the North Section, followed by another hour exploring further north. It was pure, unfiltered climbing mixed with moments of awe that only the Great Wall can inspire.
One important note from my experience: avoid coming on a Monday. Since museums are closed, Monday crowds more than double, turning the climb into a less enjoyable swarm. I found that the extra foot traffic really slowed me down and added stress to what’s meant to be an invigorating hike.
From the start, I was armed with small shoulder packs and brought along about 1 liter of mineral water (you can pick these up at just two yuan per bottle near the Wall’s entrance tunnel). Wearing smooth, comfortable shoes is a must—though honestly, I wore sneakers and found myself slipping a few times on the stone steps. For those thinking of snacking or taking lunch up, prepping some light food is smart, but do remember to travel light.
Speaking of canes, they’re optional but come highly recommended for that last steep stretch downhill. I personally tried one but ended up not using it much; however, by the end, my leg was stiff enough that having it might’ve helped.
Traveling smart is half the adventure. The Great Wall bus 877 is a hidden gem that takes you directly to the mountain gate, saving a lot of time and energy. If you’re coming from the Institute, a route via road 142 behind the bridge to 877 will get you there in under two hours, which felt pretty efficient.
On the practical side, there’s no free baggage storage at the exit—there, it costs 30 yuan. But good news: luggage storage at the entrance is free, so pack lightly and drop off your bags before starting your trek.
My favorite part of the climb was spending time on the Great Wall North Section, which offers incredible rocky views and plenty of open spaces to snap photos without feeling cramped. The sheer beauty combined with the challenge was exhilarating. It’s a different experience from the more tourist-heavy sections, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants a balance of sightseeing and physical activity.
If you want a detailed hiking guide, this great wall north section hiking guide I found online has tons of useful tips on navigating this part of the Wall.
These tips made my climb manageable and enjoyable amid the natural challenge and breathtaking views.
The hiking challenge on the Great Wall’s North Section pushed me physically but rewarded me with unforgettable vistas and peaceful moments away from tourist crowds (when timed well). If you’re planning your own ascent, keep these Great Wall hiking tips and essentials in mind to make the most of your visit. Remember, the Wall isn’t just a scenic stop—it’s an adventure that calls for preparation and respect for its history and terrain.
For more detailed planning advice and up-to-date info on access routes and facilities, you might also want to check out Untitled Art Fairs, which, while an art event site, curates interesting cultural insights and travel content:
“Save this itinerary for your next China trip—there’s nothing like conquering the Great Wall in your own way.”
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