Trek The Great Wall of China 22nd - 31st October 2010

The Great Wall of China is one of the great wonders of the world, stretching 4,500 miles from the Gobi Desert to the mountains of Korea. This trek is a world classic offering stunning scenery, challenging walks and a fascinating insight into an ancient culture. This exciting adventure begins and ends in the vibrant city of Beijing, which trekkers are invited to explore at their leisure on the last day of the challenge.

Challenge Itinerary

Day 1 - Departure

The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght Trek 2010 team depart from Dublin on an adventure of a lifetime to discover the wonders of The Great Wall of China.

Day 2 - Juyong Circuit

After arriving in Beijing airport, we travel to the famous Juyong circuit. We will be introduced to our local guides who will remain with us for the rest of the week. Accommodation throughout the trip will be provided in comfortable lodges/hotels and will be on a twin/triple share basis.  

Day 3 - Badaling & Juyong

We transfer to the Badaling section of the Wall. This section is very well-preserved and attracts countless tourists annually. After a tough morning trek we transfer back to Juyong Pass for the afternoon section. Juyong is positioned in the middle of the Guan Valley and is considered the major thoroughfare from Beijing to outside The Great Wall.

Day 4 - Dayingpan

We have a short transfer to the entrance of the ‘Wild Wall’ on the border of the Yangqing County of Beijing and Huailai County of the Hebei. Today we can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this idyllic spot in the absence of many other tourists. This section of the wall was built up during the Ming Dynasty and throughout the day we have time to observe the intriguing rock formations of the wall. We will also have the opportunity to meet some of the locals and take in traditional village life.

Day 5 - Mutianyu and the 1000 Steps

We transfer through stunning rural countryside to Mutianyu, one of the first sections of The Great Wall to be recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. We trek up 1000 steep steps to reach the entrance gate of The Great Wall and then continue to the highest point of the today’s challenge, where we enjoy a packed lunch. We will have the option to try the ‘luge’ before enjoying some free time in Mutianyu and transferring back to our accommodation.

Day 6 - Black Dragon Pool Park

On Day 6 we visit Black Dragon Pool Park and spend the day trekking through this picturesque landmark. Although the trek is steep in places, it will be punctuated with stunning scenery and views of the region’s tallest mountain, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. We enjoy lunch by cascading waterfall and continue over the pass for the final long descent of the day.

Day 7 - The Simitai Wild Wall

We trek to the Simitai Wild Wall, celebrated as one of the most beautiful sections of The Great Wall. We will encounter views of watchtowers, terraces and turrets, as well as enjoying the incredible scenery. Dinner tonight will be at our accommodation in Simitai with the wonderful sight of The Great Wall towering above.

Day 8 - Jinshanling

On Day 8 we trek from Simitai to Jinshanling. Along the way we will pass numerous towers and visit some beautiful sections of the wall that have been left as ruins. We will take our final steps off The Great Wall and transfer back to Beijing after a challenging few days with The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght Trek 2010 Team.

Day 9 - The Forbidden City

We wake up on day 9 in the host city to the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing. Breakfast is followed by a visit to Tiananmen Square and a walking tour of the Forbidden City and Olympic Park.  Participants are also invited to visit the Silk Market or discover the city at their leisure before enjoying a celebratory dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10 - Return Home

On Day 10 we return home exhilarated that we have completed a challenging trek over the spectacular Great Wall of China, made many new friends and raised much needed funds for a most worthy cause – The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght.