Great Wall in June, too hot?

Question

Is it too hot to hike the Great Wall in June? And what section is recommended for kids? Kid can hike 5 miles. We hiked Simatai to Jinshanling pre-kid and thought it was easy and of course the autumn weather was a lot nicer, too.

Answer

Visiting the Great Wall in June can indeed be hot, especially in the Beijing region. Daytime temperatures often reach 30–35°C (86–95°F), with high humidity. This can make long hikes more tiring, particularly for children. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended to avoid the peak heat.

For kids who can manage about 5 miles, you’ll want a section that is relatively safe, not too steep, and with easier stone steps. Here are the recommended sections:

Mutianyu: Very popular for families. The Wall here is well-restored with gentle slopes, sturdy steps, and cable car access for both ascent and descent. There’s also a toboggan slide down, which is fun for kids.
Jinshanling (partial hike): You can do a short, moderate hike from the base to a nearby watchtower. Some parts are steeper than Mutianyu, but the sections near the start are manageable and scenic.
Simatai (lower section): The lower areas are less crowded and easier for children. Avoid the steep, unrestored portions which can be challenging and unsafe for kids.

Tips for hiking the Wall in June with children:

Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and large crowds.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing.
Use cable cars or chair lifts where available to save energy and make the hike enjoyable.
Take frequent breaks and enjoy the scenery rather than trying to cover too much distance.

Overall, Mutianyu is the most family-friendly option for June. Jinshanling or Simatai can be considered for partial hikes if your kids are comfortable with moderate slopes. Avoid attempting long stretches in midday heat, as it can be exhausting and potentially unsafe.

Great Wall in June, too hot?

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