Unparalleled views of the Forbidden City and surrounding area - absolutely worth the climb! After reading reviews with very different reports of how difficult the climb would be, we estimate it was approximately ~150 steps up the West path. It took about 15 minutes with quick stops to take in the views on the way up. However, I would actually recommend coming in the East Gate and taking that path up - better views and more sloped pathways vs just stairs - and taking the West path down. Also take some time to explore the surrounding park - we went on a weekend and it was a great place to see locals of all ages exercising, singing traditional songs, photographing the blooms, etc.