Which section of the Great Wall in June?

Question

This has probably been asked a million times. I was jazzed to go to Gubei water town and Simatai until I found out the water town is a totally made up tourist spot. Now what's the next option? Looking for non-restored but not like Jiankou. We did Jinshanling to Simatai (or the other way?) many years ago and really liked it. But it's not a through hike any more because of the renovation at Simatai. Looking for a day trip with optional overnight stay. Shorter than 5-6 miles. Going in late June so it'll be hot.

Answer

For a late June visit to the Great Wall near Beijing, if you’re looking for a section that is non-restored but not extremely rugged like Jiankou, and shorter than 5–6 miles for a day trip, there are several options to consider. June can be hot, so planning for cooler morning hours and carrying plenty of water is essential.

Since you’ve already done Jinshanling to Simatai in the past, here are other options for non-restored or partially restored sections suitable for a 1-day hike:

Huanghuacheng: This section features a mix of restored and unrestored Wall, with parts of it adjacent to a reservoir, providing cooler scenery and beautiful views. It’s less crowded than Mutianyu or Badaling and offers optional overnight stays in local guesthouses.
Gubeikou: Known for being more rugged and less touristy, Gubeikou has partially restored sections. It offers the experience of an authentic Wall without being as extreme as Jiankou. Trails can be adjusted to suit shorter hikes.
Mutianyu (upper areas): While the main section is fully restored, hiking to the upper or outer reaches gives a less crowded experience with semi-wild parts. Suitable for a shorter hike and easier access for a day trip.

Additional practical considerations for June:

Start early in the morning to avoid midday heat, especially in exposed sections.
Wear light, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes; some areas may be uneven or slippery if it rains.
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, as services along non-restored sections can be minimal.

If you prefer an overnight stay, Huanghuacheng and Gubeikou both have local guesthouses or small inns nearby, which allows you to pace yourself and enjoy sunrise or sunset views without a long, strenuous day hike.

In summary, for a non-restored but manageable hike under 5–6 miles in June, Huanghuacheng and Gubeikou are highly recommended, with Mutianyu upper sections as a safer alternative for less rugged terrain and easy access.

Which section of the Great Wall in June?

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