The best hiking trails to explore in Seoul

Once you’ve had your fill of K-BBQ and tteokbokki, work off those calories amid the majestic peaks and picturesque valleys in and around Seoul. Hiking is a national pastime in South Korea , where gorgeous mountain landscapes are criss-crossed by an extensive network of well-maintained trails, easily accessible by public transport. To make the experience even more convenient, you can rent hiking gear from tourist centres at the three most popular destinations: Bukhansan, Bugaksan and Gwanaksan. So, whether you’re seeking hidden Buddhist temples or adrenaline-fuelled ridge climbs, we’ve curated the best trails to tackle while you’re in the South Korean capital.​ ​ 

Namsan Park

For unbeatable views of downtown Seoul, head to the N Seoul Tower in Namsan Park. Skip the cable car and opt for a walk instead to take in the panoramic city views at a comfortable pace. The most direct route is the paved path and steps from Namsan Park – a popular trail frequented by local couples and families. For a tranquil escape, explore the Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden first, then follow the signs to get on the trail to the N Seoul Tower. 

Bukhansan National Park

Also known as the “Guardian of Seoul”, Bukhansan is the highest mountain within city limits. The national park is home to magnificent granite peaks as well as historic Buddhist temples and a Joseon-era fortress completed in 1711. For a challenging hike that takes you to all the best sights, take the 10.2-kilometre Bukhansanseong-Daenammun Trail starting at the Bukhansanseong Visitor Centre. Explore the main castle of Bukhansanseong Fortress, pass through imposing fortress gates, and pay your respects at Buddhist temples along the way. If this four-hour hike sounds too difficult, the beginner-friendly Cloud Garden boardwalk also offers beautiful views at a more relaxed pace.

Bugaksan

This majestic mountain rises above the Joseon palace Gyeongbokgung . Explore the complex’s grand halls, then head to its eastern gate, Geonchunmun, to access the Bugaksan trail . Enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the verdant foothills and cross a series of wooden bridges leading to the Baegakjeong Pavilion. Rest before the steep and rocky descent to the Chilgung Shrine , which houses the ancestral tablets of seven royal concubines who were mothers to Joseon kings.

Gwanaksan

Spanning southern Seoul and parts of neighbouring Gyeonggi Province, Gwanaksan is named for its distinctive hat-shaped (“gwanak”) peak. For panoramic views, take the Hagbawi Ridge Trail , which starts with an easy walk through forest paths before transitioning to a more difficult ascent on rocky terrain, winding from the stunning valleys of Muneomi Pass to Hagbawi Ridge and Gukgibong Peak. At the end of the six-kilometre trail, which takes around three and a half hours to complete, you’ll be rewarded with the beauty and serenity of the Yeonjuam Hermitage and Yeonjudae Temple.

Inwangsan

Traverse Seoul’s ancient city walls on this four-kilometre route from Donuimun to Changuimun across Inwangsan. Along the way, you’ll find the mystical Guksadang Shrine, a historic setting for shamanic rites that was originally built atop Namsan in 1395. It was dismantled and relocated to Inwangsan by the Japanese colonial government in 1925 to make way for a Shinto shrine at its original location. Near the rebuilt shrine is Seonbawi, a striking rock formation said to resemble a monk absorbed in Zen meditation.

Further afield

Seoraksan National Park

A day trip to Seoraksan National Park , South Korea’s first Unesco Biosphere Reserve, is a must for nature lovers. The park is especially busy in autumn, when the foliage turns vivid red and gold. Clear streams, cascading waterfalls and a stunning mountain ridge shaped like a dinosaur’s back are well worth the challenging trek. You can rent a car for the two-and-a-half-hour drive from Seoul or take the express bus to Sokcho and transfer via local bus 7 or 7-1 to reach the park entrance.

Tips

Some of these trails cross steep and rocky terrain, so it’s important to wear proper hiking shoes or boots. Trekking poles can also be helpful, especially on the more demanding routes. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, take breaks when needed and always stay on marked trails. Keep in mind that certain trails may close seasonally due to the risk of wildfires or severe weather, so check conditions ahead of time.