Ultimate Guide to Hiking Bukhansan National Park, Seoul
Just minutes from downtown Seoul, Bukhansan National Park offers a rare blend of rugged granite peaks, ancient fortress walls, and panoramic city views. This guide covers the best trails, tips, and seasons for an unforgettable hike to Baegundae Peak and beyond.
Overview
Bukhansan National Park is one of Seoul’s most iconic natural landmarks — a mountain range rising dramatically at the edge of the city. Whether you are a beginner looking for a gentle forest trail or an experienced hiker aiming for Baegundae Peak (836 m), the park offers diverse terrain, historical sites, and panoramic views of Seoul.
Location: Northern Seoul, South Korea Best for: Half-day or full-day hikes Access: Subway to Gupabal, Bulgwang, or Bukhansan Ui Station Highlights: Granite cliffs, Buddhist temples, fortress walls, sweeping city views
Why You Should Hike Bukhansan
Hiking Bukhansan is more than just exercise — it’s a chance to escape the noise of the city without leaving it.
- Only 40–60 minutes from central Seoul by subway
- Three main peaks: Baegundae (836.5 m), Insubong (810.5 m), Mangnyeongdae (799.5 m)
- Rich history including Bukhansanseong Fortress and multiple temples
- Over 130 km of trails suitable for all skill levels
- One of the most visited national parks in the world with more than 5 million visitors annually
Best Hiking Routes in Bukhansan
1. Baegundae Peak Route (Most Popular)
- Start: Bukhansanseong Visitor Center
- Distance: About 4.4 km one-way
- Time: 5–6 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Forest path, fortress walls, steep granite steps, 360-degree summit views
- Tip: The final section is steep; use gloves and ropes provided for safety.
2. Ui-dong to Doseonsa Temple Trail (Easy and Scenic)
- Start: Bukhansan Ui Station (Exit 2)
- Distance: About 3 km
- Time: Around 2 hours one-way
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Gentle incline, forest canopy, Doseonsa Temple visit
- Best for: Beginners or casual hikers
3. Wonhyobong Ridge Course (Less Crowded Option)
- Start: Bulgwang Station → Bukhansan Park entrance
- Time: 4–5 hours loop
- Highlights: Quiet forest, rocky ridge, peaceful atmosphere
What to Bring
- Footwear: Hiking shoes or boots for rocky areas
- Water: Minimum 2 liters per person
- Food: Light snacks or kimbap; limited vendors after the trailhead
- Clothing: Windbreaker or jacket; temperatures drop near the summit
- Gloves: Useful for rope sections
- Trekking poles: Optional, helpful for descent
Avoid hiking in icy conditions without crampons or traction devices.
Best Seasons to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | Fresh green scenery, wildflowers | Mild temperatures, moderate crowds |
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Lush forest and waterfalls | Start early to avoid heat |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Brilliant foliage and crisp air | Ideal for photography |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Snow-covered granite peaks | Bring spikes for icy trails |
Top Photo Spots
- Baegundae Summit – panoramic view of Seoul skyline
- Insubong Rock Face – iconic granite wall popular with climbers
- Bukhansanseong Fortress Wall – ancient stone ridge overlooking the valleys
- Doseonsa Temple – peaceful mountain temple perfect for sunrise photos
Best lighting is early morning or late afternoon.
How to Get There
By Subway and Bus
-
To Baegundae Course:
- Line 3 → Gupabal Station (Exit 1)
- Take Bus 34, 704, or 8774 → Bukhansanseong Entrance
-
To Ui-dong Course:
- Ui LRT → Bukhansan Ui Station (Exit 2)
- Walk about 10 minutes to Doseonsa Temple Trailhead
By Car
Search Bukhansanseong Visitor Center in Naver or Google Maps. Parking lots fill quickly on weekends, so arrive before 9 a.m.
After-Hike Recommendations
- Eunpyeong Hanok Village: Traditional houses and modern cafes with mountain views
- Samcheong-dong: Trendy neighborhood for brunch and coffee after your hike
- Jingwansa Temple: Nearby temple offering meditation and stay programs
Safety Tips
- Stay on marked trails; off-trail hiking is prohibited
- Respect quiet zones near temples
- Avoid drinking alcohol while hiking
- Check sunset time before starting late
- Emergency number in Korea: 119
Final Thoughts
Hiking Bukhansan National Park is one of Seoul’s most rewarding outdoor experiences. The trails lead through forests and fortress walls to granite peaks overlooking the vast city below. It’s rare to find a capital city with this kind of wilderness so close to home.
One moment you’re standing under neon lights, and an hour later, you’re on a mountain peak watching the same skyline glow from above. Whether you’re a traveler or a Seoul local, Bukhansan is a reminder that nature and city life can coexist beautifully.