Hey there! I’m taking my mom to Beijing and planning a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Is the route steep? Would it be suitable for an elderly person? Caleb, Thanks!
Hi Caleb,
That sounds like an amazing trip with your mom! Mutianyu is actually one of the best sections of the Great Wall for a more relaxed experience—it’s less crowded than Badaling and has gentler slopes in most areas. But since I’m not sure about your mom’s fitness level, here’s a breakdown of what to expect so you can decide if it’s a good fit for her.
Getting Up to the Wall
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From the Entrance to the Base – After buying your tickets, you’ll need to take a short shuttle bus ride (¥10 per person) to get to the parking lot closer to the Wall. If you’re on a tour, your bus might drop you off directly at the parking lot.
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Walking to the Cable Car Station – From the parking lot to the Cable Car Station, there’s about a 600-meter walk on a slightly uneven stone path. I highly recommend getting round-trip cable car tickets (not the chairlift) to make the visit much easier for your mom.
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Cable Car Ride to Watchtower 14 – The cable car drops you off near Watchtower 14, but there are about 20 steep stone steps to climb before reaching the main sightseeing platform below the Tower 14. Thankfully, there are handrails to help with the ascent.
Exploring the Wall – Best Route for Seniors
Once you’re at the large platform near Watchtower 14, take a moment to enjoy the view! The easiest and most scenic walk for seniors is from Watchtower 14 to Watchtower 19—this section is mostly flat with stunning views. AS you know there are totally 20 Watchtowers on the Mutianyu Great Wall from East to West ( 1 - 20 ).
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue to Watchtower 20, but be aware that this section is very steep (almost a 70–80° incline). Your mom can decide whether to stop at Watchtower 19 or take on the challenge!
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Take breaks – Rest stops are available, so take a breather every 30 minutes.
- Stay hydrated – Bring water, wear a sun hat, and opt for comfortable, non-slip shoes.
- Be cautious – Avoid rainy days, as the stone paths can get slippery. Use handrails when climbing steps.
- Extra assistance – The park provides free walking cane rentals (just requires a deposit).
- Best time to visit – Weekdays are much quieter, while weekends and holidays can get pretty crowded.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you and your mom a fantastic trip to Mutianyu!
Best,
Daniel
