Great Wall Marathon 2025

• Historical Route: Race along the Huangyaguan Great Wall with stunning views.
• Challenging Terrain: Steep steps and rugged paths make it a tough marathon.
• Race Distances: Options include full marathon, half marathon, and 8.5km fun run.
• Transport Included: Round-trip from Beijing typically part of the entry package.
• Race Essentials: Photo ID required for race number and timing chip pickup.

The Great Wall Marathon is one of the most challenging and iconic marathons in the world, offering a truly unique running experience. The race starts from the historic Yin and Yang square in the old Huangyaguan fortress, featuring a course that includes 5,164 steep and varying steps along the Great Wall of China. Presented as a true test of endurance, the marathon pushes runners through a rugged landscape with unpredictable weather fluctuations, featuring temperatures that can range significantly from 16°C to 35°C (61°F to 95°F). This event is perfect for adventure seekers who are captivated by history and culture, as it not only challenges physical limits but also offers runners the unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world's most impressive ancient structures, with vistas that encompass rolling, storied landscapes steeped in myth and history. Runners must register by March 1st due to limited availability for expat participants. Whether seeking a mystical journey along the ancient bricks or simply aiming to conquer an ambitious challenge, the Great Wall Marathon represents an unforgettable milestone for any marathon enthusiast.

Expect temperatures between 64-84°F (18-29°C) during the Great Wall Marathon in mid-May. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, but runners should be prepared for occasional rain and significant temperature changes throughout the day. Sun protection is essential due to strong UV radiation.

The Great Wall Marathon offers a thrilling and culturally immersive 42.2-kilometer journey through history and breathtaking landscapes. Divided into three distinct sections, each part of the course presents its own set of challenges and memorable highlights.

First Section (8.5 km): Runners start their adventure in an ancient courtyard surrounded by historic temples before ascending onto the Great Wall itself. This segment is characterized by steep climbs and descents, with thousands of steps leading to brick beacon towers that double as aid stations. With elevation gains of nearly 243 meters, this section demands careful pacing and the occasional walk on the steepest parts.

Second Section: Transitioning from the rugged wall to the tranquil countryside, this portion of the race takes runners through charming villages and expansive rice fields on well-maintained asphalt and gravel roads. Though mostly flat, a significant ascent around the halfway point leads through a local village, with elevation gains reaching around 200 meters between the 16 km and 23 km marks.

Third Section: The final stretch revisits the Great Wall, echoing the challenges of the first section but with slightly less intensity. This part features a 30-meter climb from the 31 km to 36 km mark and a formidable 243-meter ascent at the 36 km point, offering a last test of endurance.

Unique and Challenging Aspects: The marathon's historical backdrop enriches the experience, as runners navigate ancient structures and landmarks. The diverse terrain, from steep steps to varied road surfaces, combined with significant elevation changes, makes this course a true test of adaptability and strength. Additionally, participants must reach the wall for the second time within six hours to continue the full journey.

Overall, the Great Wall Marathon is celebrated for its stunning, demanding course that marries cultural history with physical challenge, offering an unforgettable experience for those daring enough to take it on.

When visiting Tianjin, China, for the Great Wall Marathon, extend your stay to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural tapestry and vibrant attractions. Start your exploration with a ride on the Tianjin Eye, a giant Ferris wheel offering sweeping views of the cityscape. Stroll through the Five Great Avenues, where European-style architecture from Italian to British influences paints a unique historical picture. Ancient Culture Street is a must-visit for its traditional Chinese architecture and shops brimming with local crafts and souvenirs.

Dive into Tianjin's culinary scene at Nanshi Food Street, where you can savor local delicacies like jianbing (breakfast crepes) and erduoyan (fried rice cakes). For a deeper cultural dive, catch a folk art performance at local teahouses, or wander through the Wudadao Historical and Cultural Area to admire over 230 Western-style buildings, including the Qingwangfu Mansion.

Round out your visit with a relaxing cruise on the Haihe River or a visit to the Tianjin Museum to uncover the city's fascinating history. Whether you’re soaking in the local customs at the Tianjin Folklore Museum or exploring the serene Jinyuan Garden, Tianjin promises a rich blend of cultural experiences that complement your marathon adventure.