Hiking the Ancient Wall

Another great breakfast of thin pancake from the local street "chef" at 7am and we were ready for our trek to the Great Wall.

Rather than join the hoards of people visiting the most popular sections we opted for the Shixia Pass section that is only partially restored and definitely not for the faint hearted.

Beijing turned on a lovely day for us and we had some blue sky and even puffy white clouds!  Rather windy on the wall at times and we had to be very careful with our footing at times but wow! Amazing, probably only 30 or so people on the wall with us.  Got some fantastic shots.  Walked 2 to 3 Kms along the wall and sat for a snack and drink then ambled back VERY carefully to the car park where our transport awaited.  Spent three hours on the Wall and had a blast.

when you think you've reached the top ...

One can not be a hero who has never been to the Great Wall

A slow ride back to Beijing in time to pick up our bags and catch the subway to Beijing West Railway Station and board the T43 to Xian.  The intrepid travellers are revelling in the adventure!