ποΈ Seoul Hiking Trails for Foreigners (2025)
Seoul is one of the few major cities in the world surrounded by mountains. World-class hiking is accessible directly by subway β no car needed. Here are the top trails foreigners love.
Top Hiking Trails in Seoul
ποΈ Bukhansan (λΆνμ°) β Most Popular
Seoul's most famous mountain and a national park within the city. Multiple trails ranging from easy walks to challenging summit climbs. Baegundae Peak (836m) offers stunning panoramic city views. Gets crowded on weekends β go early.
Access: Gupabal Station (Line 3) or Bukhansan Ui Station (Ui-Sinseol Light Rail) β short bus or taxi to trailhead
πΌ Namsan (λ¨μ°) β Best for First-Timers
The most accessible hike in Seoul. A 265m hill right in the city center with N Seoul Tower at the top. Well-paved trails, beautiful city views, and a cable car option if you don't want to walk up. Perfect for a 1β2 hour outing.
Access: Myeongdong Station (Line 4) β 15 min walk to trailhead. Or Chungmuro Station (Line 3/4).
β°οΈ Gwanaksan (κ΄μ μ°) β Best Views of Southern Seoul
A challenging but rewarding mountain in southern Seoul. Rocky ridgelines and sweeping views over Gangnam and beyond. Popular with serious hikers. Summit at 632m.
Access: Seoul National University Station (Line 2) β bus or 20 min walk to trailhead
πͺ¨ Dobongsan (λλ΄μ°) β Best for Rock Climbers
Dramatic granite peaks and ridges north of Seoul. Harder than Bukhansan with more technical sections. Stunning scenery and less crowded than Bukhansan on weekdays. Summit at 740m.
Access: Dobongsan Station (Line 1 / Gyeongchun Line) β 10 min walk to trailhead
π― Seoul City Wall Trail (νμλμ±) β Most Scenic Walk
A historic 18.6km trail that follows the ancient city wall built in 1396. You don't need to do the whole loop β popular sections include Naksan, Inwangsan, and Bugaksan. Mix of history, views, and easy walking. Great for all fitness levels.
Access: Multiple entry points β Hyehwa Station (Line 4) for Naksan section, Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) for Bugaksan section
π Achasan (μμ°¨μ°) β Sunset Views Over Han River
A gentle, easy hike with spectacular sunset views over the Han River and eastern Seoul. Under 300m elevation, very family-friendly. Less known to tourists β a local favorite.
Access: Achasan Station (Line 5) β 5 min walk to trailhead
π‘ Tips: Most trails are free to enter. Bring water β vending machines are at trailheads but scarce on the trail. Proper hiking shoes strongly recommended for anything above Namsan. Korean hikers wear full gear including hiking poles even on easy trails β don't be surprised.
Best Seasons for Hiking in Seoul
Spring (MarchβMay) and Autumn (SeptemberβNovember) are the best β mild temperatures and spectacular cherry blossoms or fall foliage. Summer hikes are doable but hot and humid. Winter hiking is popular too β snow on Bukhansan peaks is stunning but trails get icy.