Miyun villages

Time: Saturday, October 2.

Where: The rolling hills and empty paths of Miyun County.

Pick up: 8 am at the Lido, outside Starbucks.

Return: 4 pm.

Travel time: 2 hours.

Walking time: 3 to 4 hours.

The route: This walk is achievable by everyone, with no danger of slipping on loose or irregular surfaces. Walk up a lane through a small village nestled in the valley to reach Stonewall Village. Walking along the ridge, one can take in the country view that stretches for miles.

Great Wall tower

Round tower of the Great Wall north of Miyun County.

The round tower sits on the top of the mountain at the end of the Great Wall, where the mountain cantilevers over the valley. Towers such as these were used at the end of the Wall, where the cliff face was so shear it could not continue.

The tower has great outlook across the mountains, with the Miyun reservoir in sight.

Paths are steep, but in good condition. To make the walk more interesting, take an alternative route coming down to end the walk in a village.

Cost: 150 yuan (US$18) per adult and 100 yuan (US$12) per child under 12. This includes round trip transportation, snacks and beverages, a detailed map of the hike, and professional guides. Fees will be collected on the bus.

To sign up with Beijing Hikers, email: info@beijinghikers.com or call Huijie at 139 100 25516.

(Beijing Weekend September 27, 2004)