There’s usually a gondola-type lift going up to the highest point of the wall… and that’s a really crowded tourist area. It’s much quieter and more beautiful once you get farther away, but be careful to manage your time… the gates close at a certain hour. We got too caught up exploring the second time I went (six years ago) and were locked inside, had to scale a wall to get out and hithchike with a trucker lady. Not too pleasant but a memorable experience and still worth it, as the Great Wall is breathtaking. I visited a third time last year and the guy I was with insisted on racing to the top. If you’re going during the summer, bring water with you!!!