5 Scenic Hiking Trails Near Seoul That Made Me Fall in Love with Korea’s Outdoors

I came to Seoul expecting temples, food markets, neon signs—and I got all that. But what I didn’t expect? That I'd fall head over heels for its hiking trails.

It started one chilly spring morning when I randomly followed locals in hiking gear onto a subway car. I ended up on a short, surprisingly peaceful trail on Inwangsan, with the entire city below me glowing under the sun. That single moment—wind in my hair, silence in my ears, and a 360-degree view of Seoul—changed everything. Since then, I’ve been chasing that feeling.

If you’re craving a breath of fresh air (literally) on your Korea trip, here are 5 trails that gave me more than just great photos—they gave me stories.

1. 🏞️ Inwangsan (for Sunset and Shamanic Energy)

Ever wondered what Seoul looks like at sunset from a mountaintop just 20 minutes from downtown? Inwangsan is your answer.

• 🕓 Time: ~1.5 hours round trip

• 🎒 Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

• 📍 Start Point: Dongnimmun Station (Line 3)

I’ll never forget watching the sun drop behind the city skyline from the old fortress wall. Bonus: This place has spiritual energy too—you’ll see shamanic shrines and incense mid-way up.

💬 Best for: Sunset lovers, beginners, spiritual wanderers.

2. 🧗‍♂️ Bukhansan (for When You Want to Feel Like a Mountain Warrior)

This isn’t a walk in the park—Bukhansan is epic. You’ll hike through boulders, stone staircases, pine forests, and at the summit? Sweeping views of jagged granite peaks and Seoul sprawling below like a painting.

• 🕓 Time: 4–6 hours round trip

• 🎒 Difficulty: Moderate–Hard

• 📍 Start Point: Gupabal Station + local bus

🥾 Bring water, snacks, and good shoes—this is a full-body day. But trust me, when you reach Baegundae Peak, you’ll feel like you earned your soju that night.

💬 Best for: Adventure seekers, fitness fans, summit selfies.

3. 🌿 Achasan (for Calm Mornings and City Views)

Achasan is a local favorite—less touristy, but loved by Seoulites who jog up here before work. It’s a short, friendly trail that rewards you quickly.

• 🕓 Time: ~1 hour round trip

• 🎒 Difficulty: Easy

• 📍 Start Point: Achasan Station (Line 5)

There’s a part where the city and Han River suddenly appear like a movie cut scene. That moment stayed with me.

💬 Best for: Early risers, short-day hikers, solo travelers.

4. 🌸 Eungbongsan (for Spring Blossoms and River Views)

Eungbongsan is more of a hill, but don’t underestimate it. Come in spring and you’ll walk through a tunnel of yellow forsythia, overlooking the Han River and Seoul’s bridges.

• 🕓 Time: 45 minutes round trip

• 🎒 Difficulty: Easy

• 📍 Start Point: Eungbong Station (Jungang Line)

💬 Best for: Spring travelers, photographers, quiet afternoons.

5. 🏯 Namsan (for a Classic Seoul Moment)

It’s touristy, yes. But also classic. Hiking to N Seoul Tower might not sound like a real mountain experience, but it gives you city-meets-nature vibes in the best way.

• 🕓 Time: ~1.5 hours depending on route

• 🎒 Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

• 📍 Start Point: Myeongdong, Hoehyeon, or Itaewon

💬 Best for: First-timers, casual walkers, cityscape chasers.

🗺️ Quick Hiking Tips for Travelers

• 📱 Download Naver Map → Android / Apple store

• ⛅ Check air quality (fine dust) before you go → Air Korea

• 🧢 Bring snacks, sunscreen, and a hat

• 🚇 All trails are subway accessible. No car needed!

📱 Need a local SIM card for easy map access on the trail? → Click

Hiking in Korea isn’t just about nature—it’s about slowing down in a city that rarely does, and seeing it from above. If you’re planning your Seoul itinerary, make room for at least one of these hikes. Your feet might get tired—but your soul? Recharged.