Simatai Great Wall
 Simatai Great Wall |
 Simatai Great Wall |
One of the most secluded and historically authentic parts of the Great Wall can be found at Simatai, which has been only partially restored. Dotted with no fewer than 15 watchtowers, this section was once a Ming dynasty fortress of the same name. The powerful landscape makes for a marvelous backdrop while hiking along the crumbling remains. Be careful, however: The wall can be dangerously steep in parts and occasionally comes to an abrupt halt over a dangerous drop.
 Simatai Great Wall |
 Simatai Great Wall |
Jinshanling Great Wall and Simatai Great Wall are much farther away from Beijing than either Badaling Great Wall or Mutianyu Great Wall, and the distance has protected both places from overexposure to tour groups and restoration projects. The four-hour walk between the two sites is highly popular. As you leave one site and head for the other – you can go in either direction – the physical condition of the wall grows gradually worse, and the vendors fall by the way side. This is not an easy walk, and in some spots, you will have to cross narrow remnants of the wall or climb around areas that have been heavily damaged. Do not attempt the walk unless you are in relatively good physical shape and wearing proper hiking shoes.
