3 Trails You Shouldn’t Miss on Your Travels!
When most people travel to Seoul, they’re not thinking about Seoul hiking. However, hiking near Seoul is an amazing way to get to know the area in a different way. By exploring the mountains around this iconic city, you’ll get distinctive views and experiences that most tourists miss out on. With seven mountains and beautiful national parks, boasting over 140 individual trails, there are plenty of options, so many it may be hard to choose. Don’t worry! We picked out some of the best for you. Keep reading to learn about the 3 best trails and hikes in Seoul!
1. The Seoul Trail
One of the best Seoul hikes literally shares its name: the Seoul Trail. This trail winds 157 kilometers in total, circling the outer ring of Seoul’s city boundaries. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can tackle the entire 157 kilometer loop! However, most visitors pick a section (of the total 8) on this trail to get to know the area. There are great views throughout the trail, though notably you’ll see the Han River as it glides through the city and the towering buildings against a dreamy backdrop. There is plenty of variety on the Seoul Trail, so where you want to start depends on you. Consult your Seoul hiking guide to find the right fit for you!
2. Gwanaksan Trail: Mt Gwanak
Widely renowned as one of the best Seoul hikes with beautiful scenery, Gwanaksan is a can’t miss hike. Along this trail, you’ll find unique rock formations that seem to look like animals, such as elephants. You’ll also pass by Yeonjuam, a Buddhit hermitage that creates stunning scenery near the peak. However, this trail is not without its challenges. It cuts a difficult path south of the city up to Mt Gwanak’s summit, at 632 meters. Although it’ll add some extra weight, we recommend taking your camera in your pack for this one! You won’t regret it, since some of the most scenic spots in all of Seoul are found in this Seoul hiking spot!
3. Bugak Skyway
If you’re looking for a different view of the city, you have to check out this Seoul hiking gem! Located just north of the downtown section of Seoul, Bugak Skyway’s trail snakes along the ride of Mt Bugak (Bugaksan). Bugak Skyway is one of the best trails and hikes in Seoul because of the amazing panoramic views you get of the city. You’ll know when you’ve reached this point because of the impressive Palgakjeong Pavilion before you. It is a traditional pavilion with eight corners and stunning views all around! It is truly one of the best spots for hiking near Seoul, since it offers unique vantage points of the city below and it is located right near downtown!
As always, when you’re out hiking that can come with some risks. Make sure that you’re adequately prepared with gear and supplies, as well as your Seoul hiking guide. Having a hiking guide is so important, since they can keep you safe, lead the way, and offer interesting facts about the places around you. Pick out your favorite Seoul hiking spots today, and don’t forget to hire your trusty Seoul hiking guide to come along!
