The majority of Jiankou hikers are here for the first time, this hike is suitable for all age groups with average fitness. Children under ten to senior citizens, have successfully hiked from Jiankou towards Mutianyu. The difficulty of the hike is moderate, with some elevation changes. You don’t need ropes or climbing gear. No previous hiking or backpacking experience is required. However, weather conditions can make the hike a lot tougher than what you had expected. For example, in the summer, you will find it more difficult due to the heat and humidity. Positive attitude and adequate water consumption are the two most important factors in the success of Jiankou to Mutianyu hike. In winter, frozen snow and ice make the Wall difficult to walk on.
Don’t plan on doing anything very strenuous that evening or the next day – your legs may not let you. Depending on your level of fitness and how used to walking up and down steep slopes you are, you may find it takes a few days before you can easily tackle even the gentlest of inclines again.
Details: The entire hike from Jiankou to Mutianyu covers 3 – 5 hours, over approx. 8 km. Start height 600m, finish height 318m, highest point 1,044m (the tower on Ox-Horn Ridge). Total climbing up approx. 580m, total climbing down approx. 980m. The elevation of Zhengbeilou is 991 meters (3250 feet).