Best Nature Hikes Around Seoul
Seoul captivates with its contrasts between ultra-modern urban landscapes and lush nature. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with numerous parks,
Seoul captivates with its contrasts between ultra-modern urban landscapes and lush nature. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with numerous parks, the South Korean capital is full of spots to breathe fresh air and escape the city's hustle and bustle! Discover the best hikes to enjoy a nature getaway during your stay in Seoul.
1. Bukhansan National Park
Located north of Seoul, Bukhansan National Park is among the most visited parks in Corée du Sud. It even holds the record for the most visited national park per unit of area in the famous Guinness World Records. And for good reason! Not only is it located just outside the city and therefore ultra-accessible, but it also delights hiking enthusiasts with three magnificent peaks: Baekundae (2,742 feet), Insubong (2,657 feet) and Mangnyeongdae (2,622 feet).
Through the hiking trails, you can discover sublime picturesque landscapes blending valleys, rivers and majestic granite peaks. Upon reaching the mountain summits, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the park and the capital. The park also contains numerous temples and historic sites such as the Bukhansanseong Fortress, which dates back to the 18th century!
2. Suraksan Mountain
Next to Bukhansan National Park in northeast Seoul is Suraksan Mountain (not to be confused with Seoraksan National Park located in the northeast of the country). Much less crowded than Bukhansan, it's the ideal place to hike off the beaten path. The summit of Suraksan Mountain reaches 2,093 feet in height. To reach it, you can take a 4.3-mile hiking trail where you can observe waterfalls (Geunnyu, Eunnyu and Ongnyu cascades), enjoy multiple viewpoints over Seoul and visit temples and pavilions (Heungguksa Temple from the Silla period, Seongnimsa Temple from the Joseon period and Gwesanjeong Pavilion).
Good to know: although the hiking trail is considered moderate level, you need to be comfortable scaling rocks with ropes to reach the mountain summit.
3. Inwangsan Mountain
Here's another hike around Seoul that will blow your mind! It's Inwangsan Mountain, a sacred mountain crossed by the ancient ramparts of the capital. Several hiking trails lead to the mountain summit, but the one that follows the famous Seoul City Wall – built during the reign of King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty – is unquestionably a must-do! It's one of the most popular Seoul hikes among visitors.
At a lower height (1,110 feet) than the previous ones, climbing Inwangsan Mountain still offers a breathtaking panorama of the city. You can admire, among others, the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the N Seoul Tower and even the residence of the President of Corée du Sud. Throughout your journey, you'll discover magnificent rocks strangely sculpted by erosion!
4. Ansan Mountain
Located right next to Inwangsan Mountain and near Soedaemun Prison, Ansan Mountain sits at 971 feet altitude. It's accessible via a trail of about 4.3 miles that's renowned for being exceptionally well-maintained and accessible! In fact, the trail circling the mountain is made up of wooden structures. This makes it a preferred hiking trail for beginner hikers and families with children, as well as people in wheelchairs! You can stop at several viewpoints to observe the city. You can notably see Lotte Tower, the 63 Tower, Seoul's city wall and the surrounding mountains.
For those seeking added difficulty, know that you can also venture along small marked trails inside the mountain! To finish your expedition, you can also visit Bongwonsa Temple and Independence Park located at the foot of the mountain.
5. Namsan Park
We finish with a hike to do right in central Seoul! Located in the heart of the South Korean capital, Namsan Park is a favorite destination for locals looking to unwind away from the city's hustle. Consisting of a mount at 860 feet altitude, the park is an opportunity to hike without having to leave downtown. At the top of its summit, you'll discover the famous N Seoul Tower, a telecommunications tower standing 776 feet tall that offers a panoramic view of Seoul.
Open daily, Namsan Park has numerous facilities, including a botanical garden, a library, a pond, dining and picnic areas and many sports installations. After your hike, you can finish your visit with the Namsangol Hanok Village and its traditional houses that will immerse you in the era of the Joseon Dynasty.
Frequently asked questions
The 5 most recommended hikes around Seoul are: Bukhansan National Park (with its 3 peaks including Baekundae at 2,742 feet), Suraksan Mountain, Inwangsan Mountain along the Seoul City Wall, Ansan Mountain (ideal for beginners and families) and Namsan Park in downtown, at the foot of the N Seoul Tower.
Bukhansan National Park is accessible by metro from central Seoul. Several stations on Line 3 (Gupabal) and Line 4 (Suyu) provide access to different park entrances in less than an hour from downtown.
Ansan Mountain (971 feet altitude) is the most accessible hike for beginners and families. Its approximately 4.3-mile trail is entirely equipped with wooden structures, making it manageable even for wheelchair users. Namsan Park (860 feet), located right in downtown Seoul, is also an excellent option for a first hike.
Autumn (October-November) is ideal for enjoying the brilliant fall foliage, while spring (April-May) offers the famous cherry blossoms. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, but the mountains remain pleasant. Winter allows for snowy hikes, particularly at Bukhansan, but you'll need appropriate gear.
Yes, Namsan Park is located right in the heart of Seoul. Standing at 860 feet, it offers several hiking trails accessible on foot from many neighborhoods. At the summit, you'll find the famous N Seoul Tower with a 360° panoramic view of the capital.
