It really is GreaT

Well they certainly named it well. The great wall is truly amazing. I skipped the crowded and developed section of the wall closest to Beijing and opted instead for a 3 hour bus ride out to Jinsaling (sp?) and a 10k hike along restored and unrestored sections of the wall to Simatai. It was a great way to take in the beautiful mountain scenery and get away from the crowds. I was still greated by local women selling "I climbed the great wall" shirts every kilometer (which I did not buy). By the looks of their clothing they are well compensated for their daily trek up to the wall to follow the tourists and offer suvenires, beer and water. There were fantastic views of the wall disappearing along the ridge top in each direction, some incredibly steep ramps and even steeper flights of 18" and taller stairs that were only 4 inches deep. A great experience.