The Conquer the Wall Marathon (scheduled for May 9, 2026) is widely regarded as the most grueling version of the Great Wall races. While other events focus on restored tourist sections, this race takes runners through the "wild" and rugged Gubeikou and Jinshanling segments, offering a raw encounter with China's imperial history.
The defining characteristic of this race is its sheer vertical volume. Runners must navigate a staggering 20,518 countable steps. These steps are notoriously uneven, varying from ancient, crumbling stones in unrestored sections to steep, narrow climbs in the newly preserved areas. The terrain is so demanding that it is described as a test of one's "inner warrior," moving through secluded parts of the wall that few tourists ever reach.
| Race Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Step Count | 20,518 uneven steps across the full course. |
| Wall Sections | Gubeikou and Jinshanling (unrestored and restored). |
| Available Distances | Full Marathon (26.2 miles), Half-Marathon, 10k, and 5k. |
| Race Date | Saturday, May 9, 2026. |
Beyond the physical challenge, the event is integrated into a broader cultural experience in Beijing. Runners are encouraged to visit historic sites such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace. The race is supported by various international partners, including Atacama Travel and the Pan Pacific Hotel, and is known for its "breath-taking panoramic views" that follow the footsteps of the Ming Dynasty.
May 09, 2026
Distance — 42.2K
Type — Running
06:00
$295.00
May 09, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
06:10
$295.00
May 09, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
06:20
$295.00
May 09, 2026
Distance — 5K
Type — Running
06:30
$295.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Liangwo.
Watch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Explore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Beijing, Beijing Shi, CN
calendar_today Apr 25, 2026
location_on Beijing, Beijing Shi, CN
calendar_today May 01, 2026
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