City to Summits

Where: Discover the centuries-old Fortress Wall of Seoul as you hike Inwangsan Mountain. Locals appreciate this trail section for its relatively gentle terrains and picturesque views. Take Seoul Metro Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station.

What’s nearby?: The famous Gyeongbokgung Palace, dating from the 1300s, as well as the much-loved Sejong Village Food Street.

Highlights: This beginner-friendly trail traverses the foothills of Inwangsan Mountain, with spectacular views of the city by night. This easy-to-scale peak is right in the city and many locals enjoy taking night hikes there.

Hiking level: Easy. The ascents and descents are gentle and there is a trail and boardwalk throughout to make the walk easier. If you want to experience hiking without worrying too much about preparation or are quite new to mountain climbing, then this is the trail for you.

Where: Bugaksan Mountain is located in the north of the city and is a southern offshoot of Seoul’s tallest mountain, Bukhansan.

What’s nearby?: This trail is located in the chic and buzzy Samcheong-dong neighborhood, where traditional hanok houses and postcard-perfect scenery meet independent art galleries, offbeat boutiques and a lively food and drink scene.

Highlights: The stunning vistas resemble a traditional Korean painting. With its sheer rock faces and granite outcrops, rocky terrain and steep inclines, this is a fairly challenging trail that rewards your efforts with a spirit-lifting view.

Hiking level: Easy-Advanced. The Bugaksan Mountain features steep inclines and has a reputation as a tougher course. For less experienced climbers, the trails of Samcheong Park and the Seoul City Wall Trail along the old Seoul walls present a great alternative way to take in the landscape.

Where: Bukhansan National Park sits above Seoul and is a rare example of an in-city national park offering pristine natural woodland and unparalleled views of the city. You can get here via Bukhansan Ui (Doseonsa) Station on Seoul LRT Ui-Sinseol Line.

What’s nearby?: Bukhansan National Park on the northern edge of Seoul is dotted with dozens of gorges and granite peaks, with crystal-clear mountain streams and it has a number of historical and cultural sites, including over 100 Buddhist temples and monks’ dwellings. There is a well-established hiking infrastructure here. The full route of this hike starts and ends at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center

Highlights: This steep ascent takes in breathtaking granite rock faces and unforgettable rugged views. Atop Yeongbong Peak at 604 meters, hikers are greeted by the majestic rock face of Insubong Peak. At the summit, which stands at 836.5-meters, you’ll enjoy an unobstructed view of all Bukhansan’s peaks, and a panorama of Seoul city center below.

Hiking level: Advanced. The section from Haroojae Pass to Yeongbong Peak is steep and can be slippery. You’ll need hiking poles and gloves and should use the handrails along the trail.