Un-Happy Trails

Hiking enthusiasts and Great Wall tourists should take care as the Wall has been named the “top dangerous location in Beijing.” Yet, despite the risks, the possible fines, and even the ban on certain parts, hikers are adamant to stop at nothing to spend time on spectacular sections of the Wall.

Announced in the Global Times, the Blue Sky Rescue Team has issued their report for 2010 in which “a total of 99 hikers from China and abroad were lost, trapped, or encountered other difficulties while hiking in Beijing last year…. one person died and six were injured.”

Most incidents occurred on sections dubbed the “Wild Wall,” unrestored areas known for its steep terrain and few crowds, as well as being technically off-limits.

All of these unrestored sections are restricted due to the dangers and fines run up to 500RMB per person or 30,000 RMB for agencies that organize hikes on these parts. However, “the cultural relics preservation center responsible for fining such hikers says enforcing the penalties is infeasible.”