Great Wall Spur hike, 2016/07/13

Photos from a hike to the Great Wall Spur on a hot and clear day.

A line of Great Wall runs down a ridge.

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We had a fun hike on the Great Wall Spur—tough because it was a hot day, but worthwhile because the views were awesome.

We got an early start on the day, and finished most of the big climb up to the wall before the temperatures got too hot. We were aided on the climb by a break in a cool cave. In winter, the cave always feels warmer than outside, and in summer, the cave feels like it’s air-conditioned—just what we needed on a hot day.

From the cave we climbed a little farther to reach the Great Wall, getting up at one of the towes on the ‘spur’ section.

After a rest, a snack, and plenty of time to enjoy the views, we continued along the wall. The hike took us up to the high point in the area, and then down a long line of unrestored wall that has remained in pretty good condition considering it is more than 400 years old.

We finished with a break in the last tower on the line of wall and then walked down a hill trail to complete the hike.

Starting the big climb up to the Great Wall.

Super guide Mill in the cool cave.

Looking into the cave.

We're way up in the hills, and nearly at the Great Wall.

Looking back down the valley we could see where we started the hike.

Finally at the wall. It's an imposing structure. Luckily we're on the inside, and there's a gate and stairs we can use. No chance to climb on from the outside.