Seoul is South Korea's dynamic capital city, a megacity where ancient palaces and traditional markets coexist alongside gleaming skyscrapers and state-of-the-art technology. With a rich cultural heritage spanning over 600 years as the Joseon Dynasty capital, Seoul offers world-class cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and extraordinary shopping.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Bukhansan National Park - Baegundae Peak
The hike to Baegundae Peak (836m), the highest point of Bukhansan National Park, is Seoul's most rewarding trail. The route passes through dense pine and oak forest before emerging onto spectacular exposed granite slabs that require some scrambling and use of fixed ropes and chains near the summit. The 360-degree panoramic view from the top encompasses the entire Seoul metropolitan area.
Trailhead: Ui-dong or Dobongsan trailheads (various routes); Ui Station (Line 4)
-
2
Bukhansan National Park - Dobongsan Jaunbong Peak
The Dobongsan section of Bukhansan National Park offers some of Seoul's most dramatic hiking with spectacular granite ridge walking and exposed peaks including Jaunbong (740m), Sineondae, and Manbongdae. The peaks are more technical than Baegundae with fixed ropes and chains essential, offering a genuine alpine scrambling experience within city limits.
Trailhead: Dobongsan Station (Line 1 and 7)
-
3
Namsan Mountain Loop
The hike up Namsan Mountain through Namsan Park to N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most accessible and rewarding urban hikes. Multiple trailheads from Itaewon, Myeongdong, and Huam-dong lead through beautiful forested trails to the tower summit with spectacular city views. The mountain hosts excellent cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage.
Trailhead: Multiple starting points: Itaewon, Myeongdong, or Sogong-dong
-
4
Inwangsan Mountain - City Wall Hike
Inwangsan (338m) is one of Seoul's four guardian mountains and home to the most atmospheric section of the Joseon-era Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong). The trail passes through dramatic granite outcrops, passes the Guksadang (Korean shamanist shrine), and follows the beautifully restored city wall with spectacular views over central Seoul and toward Bukhansan.
Trailhead: Dongnimmun Station (Line 3) or Seodaemun exit
-
5
Achasan Mountain
Achasan (287m) in Gwangjin-gu is a gentler mountain overlooking the Han River and Olympic Park, making it ideal for families and those seeking a less challenging option than Bukhansan. The summit views encompass the Han River, Lotte World Tower, and the Olympic Park below. The mountain has well-maintained trails and ancient Goguryeo-era fortification ruins.
Trailhead: Gwangnaru Station (Line 5) or Achasan Station (Line 5)
-
6
Ansan Mountain - City Wall Section
Ansan (296m) in Seodaemun-gu is accessible from Sinchon or Yonsei University area and offers a peaceful forested hike with restored sections of the Seoul City Wall and excellent views over the Han River and Bukhansan. Popular with students from the adjacent universities and ideal for a quick urban escape.
Trailhead: Near Sinchon Station (Line 2) or Yonsei University
-
7
Seoul City Wall - Naksan Section
The Naksan section of the Seoul City Wall is the most accessible section of the historic Hanyangdoseong, passing through Ihwa Mural Village with its colorful street art and emerging at Naksan Park with its panoramic views over the Jongno area. This is an ideal introduction to both Seoul's hiking culture and its urban art scene.
Trailhead: Hyehwa Station (Line 4) - Naksan start
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.