Walking the Great Wall of China: An Epic Journey
The Great Wall of China is a marvel of engineering and a testament to human perseverance. For centuries, this structure has stood as a symbol of Ancient China’s strength and unity, and it continues to capture the imagination of people around the world. To Walk the Great Wall of China is an adventure like no other! If this is something you are considering then I commend you! Have you considered how long it might take you? Or if it is even possible to walk the Great Wall? No? OK, let’s find out.
Walk The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China: A Brief History
The Great Wall of China was built over the course of several centuries, beginning in the 7th century BC. It stretches over 13,000 miles (21,000 kilometers) and is made up of a variety of materials, including brick, tamped earth, and stone. The wall was constructed to protect China from invading forces and to control trade along the Silk Road. Today, the Great Wall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in China, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is especially convenient for those who teach English in Beijing to visit!
How Long Would It Take to Walk the Great Wall of China?
Walking the entire length of the Great Wall of China would be a daunting task. Depending on your walking speed, it could take several months or even years to traverse the entire structure. The exact time it would take would depend on a variety of factors, including the route taken, the physical fitness of the walker, and the terrain.
Assuming an average walking speed of around 3 miles per hour (4.8 kilometers per hour) and walking for 8 hours per day, it would take approximately 1,389 days or almost 4 years to walk the entire length of the Great Wall of China. However, it’s important to note that not all sections of the wall are open to the public, and some sections may be more challenging to traverse than others.
For the more intrepid amongst you, why not consider running the Great Wall? Personally, I think I wouldn’t last longer than 30 minutes, but over 2500 people do this every year in The Great Wall Marathon.
Walk The Walk In Sections
If you don’t have several years to spare, you may want to consider walking the Great Wall in sections. There are several popular sections of the wall that are open to the public, including Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. These sections range in length from a few miles to over 10 miles. Each will offer its own unique challenges and rewards.
Badaling is one of the most popular sections of the wall, known for its well-preserved fortifications and stunning views. The section is approximately 3 miles long and can be walked in a few hours. Mutianyu is another popular section, known for its steep inclines and winding pathways. This section is approximately 5 miles long and can take several hours to walk. Jinshanling is a more remote section of the wall, known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery. This section is approximately 6 miles long and can take a full day to walk.
Fail To Prepare, Prepare To Fail!
Walking the Great Wall of China is an epic journey, and it’s important to be prepared. You’ll want to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as a good pair of walking shoes. You may also want to consider bringing a hat or sunscreen, as the sun can be quite intense in some parts of China. Also, make sure you have a map or a guidebook so you don’t get lost!
Walking the Great Wall of China is an experience like no other. Whether you choose to tackle the entire length of the wall or just a few sections, the journey will be filled with rewards, and unforgettable memories. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to take on one of the world’s most impressive structures. Happy walking!
