Best Seoul Hiking Trails for Beginners and Experts
Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is not just a bustling metropolis of skyscrapers and palaces. It also boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails, perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Whether you are an aspiring travel blogger or just someone looking to explore the great outdoors, Seoul’s hiking trails offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best hiking trails in Seoul, along with tips on how to respect local customs and make the most of your hiking adventure.
Why Hike in Seoul?
Hiking in Seoul offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The city is surrounded by mountains that provide stunning views of the skyline, cultural landmarks, and serene nature spots. Hiking here is not just about the physical exercise; it’s about immersing yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of the area.
Beginner-Friendly Trails
Namsan Mountain
Namsan Mountain, located in the heart of Seoul, is another excellent choice for beginners. The mountain is famous for the N Seoul Tower, a major landmark.
Best Trails for Beginners:
- Namsan Circular Trail: This 2-hour hike is relatively easy and takes you around the mountain, providing lovely views of the city.
- Namsan Seoul Tower Trail: A bit more challenging, this trail leads directly to the N Seoul Tower and offers a rewarding view at the top.
Achasan Mountain
Achasan Mountain is known for its easy trails and historical significance. It’s a great spot for those new to hiking.
Best Trails for Beginners:
- Achasan Fortress Trail: This trail takes you to the ancient Achasan Fortress, offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich history. The trail is about 2 kilometers long and can be completed in 1-2 hours.
Intermediate to Expert Trails
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Seoul. It’s perfect for Intermediate, offering well-marked trails and breathtaking views. The park is home to various peaks, valleys, and historical sites.
Best Trails for Intermediate:
- Baegundae Peak Trail: This is the highest peak in Bukhansan and provides panoramic views of Seoul. The trail is about 3.4 kilometers long and can be completed in around 2-3 hours.
- Dulle-gil Trail: This is a gentle, circular trail that takes you around the base of the mountain, offering a more leisurely hike.
Gwanaksan Mountain
Gwanaksan Mountain is ideal for those looking for a more challenging hike. The trails here are steeper and rockier, but the views are well worth the effort.
Best Trails for Intermediate to Expert Hikers:
- Yeonjudae Ridge Trail: This trail is about 4 kilometers long and takes you to the Yeonjudae Hermitage, perched on a rocky outcrop. The trail is steep and requires some rock scrambling.
- Seoul National University Trail: Starting from Seoul National University, this trail is challenging and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
Dobongsan Mountain
Dobongsan Mountain is part of Bukhansan National Park but is more challenging than the trails mentioned earlier.
Best Trails for Intermediate to Expert Hikers:
- Dobongsan Ridge Trail: This trail is about 5 kilometers long and takes you along the ridge of Dobongsan, offering spectacular views. It’s a strenuous hike that can take 4-5 hours to complete.
- Mangwolsa Temple Trail: This trail leads to the Mangwolsa Temple and is known for its steep inclines and rocky paths. It’s about 3 kilometers long and takes around 3 hours.
Inwangsan Mountain
Inwangsan Mountain offers a mix of easy and challenging trails, making it suitable for hikers of different experience levels.
Best Trails for Intermediate to Expert Hikers:
- Inwangsan Fortress Trail: This trail is about 2.5 kilometers long and takes you along the ancient fortress walls. The hike is moderately challenging with some steep sections.
Practical Tips for Hiking in Seoul
Respect Local Customs
When hiking in Seoul, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and private residences. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Stay on Marked Trails: Venturing off the trails can damage the environment and disturb wildlife.
- Respect Sacred Sites: Many trails pass by temples and shrines. Be respectful and avoid making loud noises.
- Pack Out What You Pack In: Leave no trace by taking all your trash with you.
Best Times to Hike
The best times to hike in Seoul are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons. The weather is mild, and the scenery is stunning with blooming flowers or fall foliage.
What to Bring
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
- Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and bring some light snacks for energy.
- Map and Compass: While trails are generally well-marked, it’s always good to have a map and compass as a backup.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket if the weather looks uncertain.
Lesser-Known Trails
Suraksan Mountain
For those looking to explore lesser-known trails, Suraksan Mountain is a hidden gem. It offers a peaceful hiking experience away from the crowds.
Best Trails:
- Suraksan Ridge Trail: This trail is about 4 kilometers long and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. It’s moderately challenging and takes around 3-4 hours to complete.
Bulamsan Mountain
Bulamsan Mountain is another lesser-known hiking spot that offers a tranquil escape.
Best Trails:
- Bulamsan Temple Trail: This trail is about 3 kilometers long and takes you to the Bulamsan Temple. It’s a moderately challenging hike with some steep sections.
Conclusion
Hiking in Seoul provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this vibrant city. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert hiker, there’s a trail for you. Remember to respect local customs, pack appropriately, and enjoy the stunning views and serene landscapes that Seoul has to offer.
Happy hiking!