How to hike the Great Wall With Kids? – From Baby to Teenagers Tips

Hiking the Great Wall of China with kids can be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family. Here are some tips to make your hike enjoyable and safe:

Choose a Suitable Section:

Select a Great Wall section that is suitable for kids. Sections like Mutianyu or Jinshanling are recommended as they have well-preserved paths, manageable slopes, and safety features such as guardrails. These sections also offer amenities like cable cars or chairlifts, which can help younger children or elderly family members reach the hike’s starting point.

3 Great Wall hiking routes for beginners. Safe and fun!

A. Jinshanling Great Wall  to Simatai West hike (7 km)

B. Huanghuacheng Great Wall Hike (Flexible from 3kms to 12 km)

C. Mutianyu Great Wall hike (Flexible with cable car and toboggan)

If your kids are active, you can take them on a hike from Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall. It is a super change hike, but it is super fun!

Plan and Prepare:

Plan your trip and gather all the necessary information. Check the weather forecast, choose a suitable date, and consider your kids’ physical abilities and interests. Make sure everyone wears comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking.

Picking a trail that has interesting features. For example, Mutianyu is famous for its toboggan. Jinshanling is the parodise of photographer. Jiankou is the most dangerous part. Gubeikou is a super interesting section with a carnival. Huanghuacheng Great Wall is with a beautiful lake by the Great Wall.

Check the weather before the hike; if the weather is not good for a hike, it is better to reschedule the hike.

Start Early:

Begin your hike early to avoid crowds and take advantage of cooler temperatures. It also gives you more time to explore and enjoy the Great Wall without feeling rushed.

Bring Snacks and Water:

Pack plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone hydrated and energized during the hike. Avoid heavy meals before the hike, but have a filling breakfast or lunch. It’s also a good idea to bring some lightweight snacks that are easy to carry and provide quick energy.

Take Breaks:

Remember to take frequent breaks during the hike, especially if you have younger kids. Use these breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Let your kids explore and capture the beauty of the Great Wall through their own eyes.

Be Mindful of Safety:

Ensure the safety of your kids by keeping a close eye on them throughout the hike. Remind them to stay on marked paths and not to wander off alone. Some sections of the Great Wall may have steep steps or uneven surfaces, so hold hands or provide assistance when needed.

Educational Experience:

Make the hike a fun and educational experience for your kids. Share interesting facts about the Great Wall’s history, culture, and significance. Please encourage them to ask questions and engage in discussions. Consider bringing a guidebook or using a mobile app that provides information about the Great Wall as you explore.

Capture Memories:

Bring a camera or a smartphone to capture the special moments and beautiful scenery. Encourage your kids to take photos or create a travel journal to document their experience on the Great Wall.

Enjoy the Surrounding Nature:

Appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the Great Wall. Point out flora and fauna, and enjoy the fresh air and stunning landscapes. Encourage your kids to be mindful of the environment and respect the Great Wall as a cultural heritage site.

End with a Celebration:

Celebrate the completion of your hike with a small ceremony or reward. It could be a family photo at a designated spot, a picnic at the foot of the Great Wall, or a special treat at a nearby restaurant.

Remember, hiking the Great Wall with kids should focus on enjoyment, learning, and creating lasting memories. Take it at a pace that suits your family, and have fun exploring one of the world’s most remarkable historical sites together.