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is hiking from jiankou to mutianyu still possible?

I'm interested in doing it. Anyone know any group tours that exist? or is everything private?

Any suggestions or advice is greatly appreciated!

Hiking from Jiankou to Mutianyu is still possible, but it requires some careful planning. Jiankou is known for its steep, unrestored, and rugged sections of the Great Wall, so this route is recommended only for experienced hikers who are comfortable with uneven terrain and some scrambling. The hike is roughly 10–12 km, depending on your start and end points, and can take 3–5 hours for fit hikers.

Here are some considerations and suggestions:

  • Trail Conditions: Jiankou is partially crumbling and not officially restored, while Mutianyu is fully restored. Expect steep climbs, loose rocks, and narrow paths, especially in Jiankou.
  • Guided Tours: Most tours covering Jiankou to Mutianyu are private due to the challenging nature of the hike. Some small group tours do exist, but they are usually limited to 4–6 people and are organized by specialized adventure tour companies in Beijing.
  • Safety: Bring proper hiking shoes, water, and snacks. Weather can change quickly, so check forecasts. Solo hiking is not recommended.
  • Transportation: Mutianyu has cable cars at the exit for an easier descent. Getting to Jiankou usually requires a private car or taxi from Beijing or a tour operator.

Recommendations:

  • Consider booking a private guide if you’re unfamiliar with the trail; they can help with navigation and safety.
  • If joining a group tour, look for adventure or hiking-focused operators rather than standard sightseeing tours. These sometimes include transportation from Beijing, guide services, and sometimes small meals.
  • Start early in the day to avoid afternoon heat or crowds at Mutianyu, especially on weekends.

Overall, Jiankou to Mutianyu offers an amazing experience for adventurous hikers, combining unrestored wall sections with the restored areas at Mutianyu, but it is physically demanding and requires careful preparation.

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