Hongluo Temple training hike

It was nearing the Great Wall half marathon, so a couple of friends and I went to a different section of the Wall known as Honglou Temple.  It is literally a thousand year old Buddhist temple and holy land (not to mention one heck of a hike).  These Buddhist worshipers must have been in phenomenal shape to hike that climb to visit the temple!  It is an absolutely beautiful hike up the mountain side and is sure to get your heart rate up real quick!  We got a great workout in but I am always amazed and slightly perturbed when a little Chinese lady in high heels passes us by going up the trail! 
This area is also known for the 500-Arhat Statues wearing red robes that surround an enormous statue of laughing Buddha.  It was a great day!  Fantastic weather, workout, view and company!

This was in the "restroom" we used before the hike.  I still don't really get it!

Kasey, Jen and myself ready to get a workout in.

View from up top!

One of the temples.

These are some of the 500 statues surrounding the huge laughing Buddha.  Each statue has a different expression on their face.