No wonder it was selected by National Geographic as the "Most Beautiful Great Wall"

A 2-hour self-drive from Beijing❗️ No wonder it was selected by National Geographic as the "Most Beautiful Great Wall," completely overturning my perception of the Great Wall～ Compared to the crowds at Badaling and Mutianyu, the tranquility and grandeur of Jinshanling are even more stunning! The wall towers here are dense and majestic, the arches are arranged in an orderly fashion, and sunrise over the sea of clouds or sunset glow are perfect for photos. In November, the mountains are dyed with layers of red, orange, and yellow, weaving a landscape painting. Hiking here feels like entering a fairyland. This tested self-drive + hiking guide is a must-save for friends around Beijing and Tianjin to rush to～ 🚗 Transportation guide from Beijing (tested and worry-free) • Self-drive: Beijing city → Daguang Expressway → Jinshanling Great Wall Scenic Area, about 160 km in total, takes around 2 hours. For navigation, directly search "Jinshanling Great Wall Scenic Area Parking Lot." Parking fee is about 10 RMB per visit (subject to on-site conditions). • Tips: Some expressway sections have speed limits, so check road conditions in advance; there are many bends around the scenic area, so drive safely. ⛰️ Jinshanling highlights (tested and reliable) ❶ Essence of the Ming Great Wall: Known as "The Great Wall of Ten Thousand Miles, Jinshanling Stands Alone," the "Three Wonders" of the wall—barrier walls, inscribed bricks, and horse-blocking stones—are must-sees. The wall is well-preserved yet retains its original look, allowing a direct experience of the ancient military defense engineering’s grandeur. ❷ Less crowded and off the beaten path: Compared to popular sections, there are fewer tourists here, making it easy to get empty shots and fully immerse in the beauty of the mountains and the Great Wall blending together during hikes. ❸ Autumn-exclusive scenery: In November, the mountains are covered with red and yellow leaves. Sunlight filters through the branches onto the blue bricks of the wall, creating a soothing interplay of light and shadow. Every snapshot captures the autumn atmosphere perfectly. ❹ Photographer’s paradise: Sunrise over the sea of clouds and sunset glow are iconic views. The Small and Large Jinshan Towers are the best vantage points. The soft light in the early morning or evening adds great texture to photos of the wall’s silhouette. 🗺️ Detailed explanations of 5 routes (suitable for different needs) 1️⃣ 2-hour classic route (🔴 Beginner/Family-friendly) Middle Gate → Brick Battlement Entrance → Shaling Entrance → Descend Highlights: Short distance, low difficulty, mostly flat, quickly experience the Great Wall’s style, suitable for those with limited time or average fitness. 2️⃣ 2.5-hour photography route (🟢 Photographer’s top choice) Middle Gate → Brick Battlement Entrance → Small Jinshan Tower → Descend Highlights: Passes Small Jinshan Tower (excellent sunset spot), compact route, perfectly captures the Great Wall and light interplay, maximizing photo opportunities. 3️⃣ 4-hour Great Wall “Three Wonders” route (Deep cultural exploration) Middle Gate → Brick Battlement Entrance → Small Jinshan Tower → Houchuan Entrance → East Five-Eye Tower → Descend → Exit East Gate Highlights: Unlocks the “Three Wonders” of barrier walls, inscribed bricks, and horse-blocking stones, deeply understanding the Great Wall’s historical heritage, ideal for culture lovers. 4️⃣ 4-hour west line hiking route (Gentle and leisurely) West Gate → Taochun Entrance → Brick Battlement Entrance → Exit Middle Gate Highlights: Fewer tourists on the west line, dense vegetation along the way, great autumn scenery experience, suitable for those who enjoy quiet hikes. 5️⃣ 4.5-hour east line hiking essence route (My route 🔵 Highly recommended) Middle Gate → Brick Battlement Entrance → Small Jinshan Tower → Large Jinshan Tower → Houchuan Entrance Descend Highlights: About 8 km total, moderate intensity, covers the most scenic sections of Jinshanling, allowing you to enjoy both the Great Wall’s majesty and the vastness of the mountains. The best choice for photography + hiking. 📝 Practical tips & pitfalls to avoid • Tickets: 65 RMB per person (subject to official release); children under 1.2 meters and seniors over 65 with valid ID are free; students with student ID get half price (check official discounts in advance). • Opening hours: 4:00 AM - 6:30 PM (sunrise lovers can arrive earlier, check the sunrise time for the day). • Hiking tips: Wear anti-slip hiking shoes; some mountain paths are steep; autumn temperature varies greatly, bring a light jacket for mornings and evenings; carry water and some energy snacks (few supply points in the scenic area). • Hidden gem: The section from Houchuan Entrance to East Five-Eye Tower retains the original Great Wall appearance, with weathered walls full of historical feel. Fit hikers can extend their visit here but be cautious and act within your limits. If popular Great Wall sections are lively check-in spots, Jinshanling is a treasure where you can quietly feel the beauty of history and nature. A 2-hour drive can escape the city noise, hike among red walls and yellow leaves, and watch the sea of clouds roll over the wall. Such a weekend is truly healing～ Photographers, hikers, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path secrets, arrange your trip now!