Hiking in Korea: A Visitor's Guide to Bukhansan, Seoraksan, Hallasan and Jirisan, Trail Etiquette, Seasons, Gear and Safety

Ask a group of Korean office workers what they did at the weekend and there is a good chance that at least one of them will say "I went to the mountain" (산에 갔어요). Mountains cover roughly two-thirds of South Korea, and almost every city has a peak, a ridge or a forested hill within easy reach. Hiking (등산, deungsan) is not just a hobby for athletes. It is a social activity, a way to relax, a family tradition and, for many people, a weekly ritual.

For visitors, Korea's mountains are one of the country's best-kept secrets. You can ride the subway from central Seoul to a granite peak with views over the whole city, walk through ancient temple grounds in a national park or climb South Korea's highest mountain on a volcanic island. In this guide we introduce the best-known hiking areas for first-time visitors, explain the habits and unwritten rules of Korean hiking culture, and share practical advice on seasons, gear, transport and safety so you can enjoy the trails with confidence.

Why hiking is so popular in Korea

There are several reasons why so many Koreans head for the hills. Geography is the obvious one: with mountains everywhere, they are simply the most accessible natural space. Public transport often reaches the trailheads, and many trails start right at the edge of residential neighbourhoods. Hiking is also affordable. Most national park trails are free to enter, so all you need is a pair of good shoes and some snacks.

Hiking is deeply social as well. Friends, coworkers, alumni groups and hiking clubs organise regular outings, and the hike is often followed by a shared meal near the trailhead. For older Koreans in particular, the mountain is a place to stay active, meet friends and enjoy fresh air. In recent years, younger people have also embraced hiking, sharing summit photos on social media and turning outdoor fashion into a trend.

Finally, the mountains are closely connected to Korean history and spirituality. Buddhist temples sit in many valleys, old fortress walls run along ridgelines, and mountain spirits play an important role in traditional folk beliefs. A hike in Korea often feels like a walk through culture as much as nature.

Understanding Korean national parks

South Korea has more than twenty national parks, managed by the Korea National Park Service. They range from coastal and marine parks to high mountain areas. Most mountain parks share some useful features for visitors:

• Well-marked trails: signposts usually show distances and destinations in Korean and often in English.
• Visitor centres: at major entrances you can pick up maps and check trail conditions.
• Shelters on longer routes: some high mountains have shelters (대피소) for overnight stays, which usually need to be reserved in advance.
• Seasonal closures: some trails close temporarily in dry seasons to prevent forest fires, or for ecological restoration.
• Time limits: on several mountains, there are cut-off times for starting the ascent, especially in winter when days are shorter.

Rules, closures and reservation systems can change, so it is always a good idea to check the official national park website or app before your trip. Information on these sites is usually available in English.

Bukhansan: a national park inside the city

Bukhansan National Park lies on the northern edge of Seoul and is one of the most visited national parks in the world relative to its size. Its granite peaks rise sharply above the city, and on a clear day the views stretch across Seoul to the Han River and beyond.

Why visitors love it

Bukhansan's greatest advantage is accessibility. Several trailheads can be reached by subway and a short bus or taxi ride, so you can leave central Seoul in the morning and be on a ridge before lunch. The park offers routes for different levels, from gentle valley walks to steep, rocky climbs.

Popular routes

• Baegundae Peak: the highest point of the park (836 m). The common route from the Bukhansanseong area takes most hikers around four to five hours return. The final section is steep granite with cables and railings, so good shoes and a steady pace are essential.
• Bukhansanseong Fortress trails: routes that follow parts of an old mountain fortress wall, combining history and views.
• Dobongsan area: the northern part of the park, known for dramatic rock formations and temples, also reachable by subway.

Because Bukhansan is so close to the city, weekends can be very crowded. If you can, go on a weekday or start early in the morning.

Seoraksan: dramatic peaks on the east coast

Seoraksan National Park in Gangwon Province is famous for jagged granite ridges, deep valleys, waterfalls and some of the most spectacular autumn foliage in Korea. It is located near the city of Sokcho on the east coast, which makes it easy to combine mountains with seafood and the beach.

Options for every level

• Easy: the area around Sinheungsa Temple near the main entrance, with a large bronze Buddha statue and flat walking paths. A cable car also takes visitors up towards Gwongeumseong, a rocky viewpoint.
• Moderate: the trail to Ulsanbawi, a striking rock formation. It is a steady climb ending with many steep metal stairs, and the views of the coast and the ridges are memorable.
• Challenging: the climb to Daecheongbong, the highest peak (1,708 m). This is a long, demanding day hike or an overnight trip using a mountain shelter, suitable only for fit and experienced hikers.

In October, Seoraksan is one of the first places in Korea where leaves change colour, and it becomes extremely busy. Plan transport and accommodation well in advance if you visit at that time.

Hallasan: South Korea's highest mountain

Hallasan on Jeju Island is a dormant volcano and, at 1,947 m, the highest mountain in South Korea. Its summit holds a crater lake called Baengnokdam, and the slopes change from subtropical forest to alpine shrubs as you climb. In winter, the upper slopes are often covered in snow, creating a very different landscape from the rest of the island.

Trails and reservations

Only some routes reach the summit, most notably the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails. These are long hikes, often taking seven to nine hours return, and they have time limits for passing certain checkpoints. In recent years, climbing to the summit on these routes has required an online reservation in advance, so check the official Hallasan National Park website before you go.

If you prefer a shorter hike, the Eorimok and Yeongsil trails lead to beautiful highland areas and viewpoints without going to the summit crater. Yeongsil in particular is known for its unusual rock formations and is a popular choice for visitors with limited time.

Jeju's weather can change quickly, with strong wind, fog and rain, especially at higher altitudes. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket even if the weather looks fine at the coast.

Jirisan: the great mountain of the south

Jirisan was the first area designated as a national park in Korea, and it spreads across three provinces in the south of the peninsula. Its main ridge is long and high, with Cheonwangbong (1,915 m) as the highest peak on the mainland. Jirisan is famous for its sense of depth and wilderness, ancient temples such as Hwaeomsa and Ssanggyesa, and its traditional villages.

Many Korean hikers dream of walking the full Jirisan ridge, a multi-day trek that uses mountain shelters. For most visitors, however, a day hike in one of the valleys or a visit to the temples is a wonderful introduction. The Jirisan Dulle-gil, a long-distance walking trail that circles the mountain through villages and farmland, offers gentler walking with a strong sense of rural life.

Easy hikes and city trails

You do not need to climb a high peak to enjoy Korean hiking. Many cities have short, well-maintained trails that are perfect for a half-day outing.

Place	Location	Difficulty	Highlights
Namsan	Central Seoul	Easy	Paved paths, city walls, N Seoul Tower views
Inwangsan	Central Seoul	Easy to moderate	Fortress wall, rock formations, sunset views over the city
Achasan	Eastern Seoul	Easy	Short climb, Han River views, popular for sunrise
Seoul City Wall Trail	Around central Seoul	Easy to moderate	Historic wall sections, gates and neighbourhood views
Jangsan	Busan	Moderate	Views over Haeundae and the coast
Geumjeongsan	Busan	Moderate	Mountain fortress and Beomeosa Temple
Jeju Olle Trails	Jeju Island	Easy to moderate	Coastal walking routes, villages and volcanic cones

These trails are a great way to experience Korean hiking culture without committing to a full day. Many of them are also lovely in the early evening, when locals come out for a walk after work.

Korean hiking culture: what to expect

The famous hiking outfit

One of the first things visitors notice on a Korean trail is the gear. Many hikers, especially middle-aged and older people, wear full outdoor outfits in bright colours: technical jackets, hiking trousers, caps, gloves, trekking poles and sturdy boots, even on easy trails. Outdoor brands are hugely popular in Korea. You do not need to copy this look, but it shows how seriously many Koreans take preparation and comfort.

Greetings on the trail

Hikers often greet each other with a friendly "안녕하세요" (hello) or encourage each other near the top with "수고하세요" (keep up the good work). A smile and a nod are always welcome.

Summit snacks and sharing

Food is a big part of hiking in Korea. People bring kimbap, fruit, boiled eggs, cucumbers, chocolate, instant coffee and thermoses of hot water. At rest spots and summits, groups often share snacks with each other, and it is not unusual to be offered a piece of fruit by friendly strangers.

Post-hike meals

At the base of popular mountains you will find streets lined with restaurants. After a long hike, many groups sit down for savoury pancakes (jeon), tofu dishes, bibimbap made with mountain vegetables or hearty stews. This post-hike meal is often considered the best part of the day.

Air dusters and boot cleaning

At many trailheads, you will see compressed air guns used to blow dust and dirt off clothes and shoes. It is a small but very Korean detail, and you are welcome to use them.

Trail etiquette and park rules

Korean national parks have clear rules designed to protect nature and keep everyone safe. Following them also shows respect for local hikers.

• Stay on marked trails. Leaving the trail damages vegetation and can lead to fines in national parks. Some areas are closed for restoration.
• No cooking or open fires. Cooking, campfires and smoking are prohibited in national parks because of the risk of forest fires.
• Take your rubbish home. There are very few bins on the trails. Bring a small bag and carry everything back down.
• Do not pick plants or disturb animals. Wild plants, mushrooms and herbs must not be collected in national parks.
• Keep to the right and let faster hikers pass. On narrow trails, people going uphill usually have the right of way.
• Keep noise down. Avoid playing music through a speaker; many people come to the mountain for quiet.
• Respect temples. If your route passes through temple grounds, speak quietly, dress modestly and do not enter halls during ceremonies unless invited.
• Drink responsibly. Drinking alcohol is restricted in many areas of national parks, especially near summits and shelters, because it increases the risk of accidents. Check the current rules of the park you visit.

Best seasons for hiking

Korea has four distinct seasons, and each offers a different hiking experience.

Season	Conditions	Highlights	Things to watch
Spring (April–May)	Mild, pleasant temperatures	Azaleas, cherry blossoms and fresh green leaves	Some trails close for fire prevention; fine dust days
Summer (June–August)	Hot, humid, monsoon rains	Lush valleys, waterfalls, shady forests	Heat, sudden storms, slippery rocks, insects
Autumn (September–November)	Cool, clear, dry	Spectacular foliage, the most popular season	Very crowded trails and transport
Winter (December–February)	Cold, sometimes snowy	Snow-covered peaks, frost flowers, quiet trails	Ice, short days, strong wind chill

For most visitors, autumn and late spring are the most comfortable times to hike. If you hike in summer, start early to avoid the midday heat and check the weather forecast for heavy rain. In winter, crampons or microspikes are often necessary on higher mountains, and many Korean hikers carry them as standard equipment.

What to pack

For a day hike, you do not need specialist equipment, but a few essentials make a big difference.

• Good footwear: hiking shoes or boots with a strong grip. Korean granite can be smooth and slippery, especially when wet.
• Layers: a breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Temperatures drop quickly as you climb.
• Water and snacks: carry more water than you think you need, especially in summer. There are few places to buy food on the trail.
• Navigation: a downloaded offline map or a hiking app, plus a charged phone and a small power bank.
• Sun protection: a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Trekking poles: helpful on steep stairs and long descents.
• Headlamp: useful in case your hike takes longer than planned.
• Seasonal extras: microspikes and gloves in winter; insect repellent and a rain cover in summer.
• Cash and a transport card: for buses, snacks and restaurants near the trailhead.

Getting to the trailheads

One of the best things about hiking in Korea is that public transport often takes you close to the start of a trail.

• Seoul: trailheads for Bukhansan, Dobongsan, Inwangsan and Achasan can be reached by subway and local buses. Many hikers on the subway at weekends are heading to the mountains, and they often make good guides.
• Seoraksan: take an express bus from Seoul to Sokcho, then a local bus to the park entrance.
• Hallasan: buses run from Jeju City and Seogwipo to the main trailheads. Taxis are also common.
• Jirisan: intercity buses connect nearby towns such as Gurye, Hadong and Sancheong to different park entrances.

Map apps used in Korea give detailed public transport directions, including buses that go to trailheads. Searching for the name of a trailhead, a temple or a park entrance usually works well.

Staying safe on Korean mountains

Korean trails are well maintained, but mountains always deserve respect. A few simple habits help you stay safe.

• Know your limits. Choose a route that suits your fitness and experience, and turn back if you feel unwell or the weather worsens.
• Start early. Give yourself plenty of daylight, especially in autumn and winter when the sun sets early.
• Check the weather and trail status. Look at the forecast and the national park website for closures, heavy rain warnings or snow.
• Tell someone your plan. Let a friend or your accommodation know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Use location markers. Many Korean trails have numbered posts that show your location. In an emergency, these numbers help rescuers find you.
• Know the emergency number. In Korea, call 119 for fire, rescue and medical emergencies. Interpretation services are available for foreign callers.
• Take care with health conditions. Hiking is physically demanding. If you have a heart, lung or joint condition, or any other health concern, speak to a doctor before attempting long or steep hikes.

Useful Korean words for hikers

Korean	Pronunciation	Meaning
산	san	mountain
등산	deungsan	hiking, mountain climbing
등산로	deungsanno	hiking trail
정상	jeongsang	summit
탐방로	tambangno	national park trail
입구	ipgu	entrance
대피소	daepiso	mountain shelter
통제	tongje	closed, restricted
화장실	hwajangsil	toilet

A sample day hike on Bukhansan

To give you a feel for a typical outing, here is how a relaxed day on Bukhansan might look for a first-time visitor. Leave your accommodation around 7 a.m. and take the subway and a local bus to the Bukhansanseong trailhead. Pick up water, kimbap and a snack at a convenience store near the entrance, use the toilets and check the trail map at the information board.

The first part of the walk follows a shaded valley with streams and small bridges, climbing gently past an old fortress gate. After about an hour and a half, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, and you will reach a rest area where many hikers stop for a snack. The final section to Baegundae is a granite scramble with fixed railings: take your time, keep three points of contact where needed and let faster hikers pass.

At the summit, enjoy the view across Seoul, take your photos and eat your kimbap in a sheltered spot. Return by the same route, which is usually the easiest option for visitors. By early afternoon you can be back at the trailhead, ready for a warm bowl of noodles or a plate of savoury pancakes at one of the restaurants by the entrance, and back in central Seoul in time for the evening.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to pay to enter Korean national parks?

Entry to most national parks is free. However, some temples inside parks charge a cultural heritage admission fee, and certain facilities such as cable cars and shelters have their own charges. Policies can change, so check before you go.

Can I hike alone as a visitor?

Many visitors hike popular trails alone, especially busy routes near cities. Choose well-used trails, start early, keep your phone charged and tell someone your plans. For remote or long routes, hiking with a companion or a guided group is safer.

Are there toilets on the trails?

Toilets are usually available at park entrances, visitor centres, temples and some rest areas or shelters, but not along most sections of the trail. Plan accordingly before you start climbing.

Which mountain is best for a first-time visitor?

If you are staying in Seoul, Bukhansan is the easiest way to experience a real Korean mountain. For a gentler introduction, try Inwangsan or the Seoul City Wall Trail. If you are travelling further, Seoraksan offers both easy and challenging options in one park.

Can I camp on Korean mountains?

Wild camping is not permitted in national parks. Instead, you can stay in official campsites near park entrances or reserve a place in a mountain shelter on longer routes.

Is hiking in Korea suitable for children?

Yes, many families hike together. Choose short, gentle routes such as Namsan or valley paths in national parks, bring plenty of snacks and water, and allow extra time for breaks.

Final thoughts: see Korea from the top

Hiking in Korea offers far more than exercise. It is a chance to see how Koreans relax, socialise and connect with nature, to walk past ancient temples and fortress walls, and to look down on cities and coastlines from granite peaks. Whether you take a quick evening walk on Namsan, spend a day on the ridges of Bukhansan, admire the autumn colours of Seoraksan or stand at the crater of Hallasan, the mountains will show you a side of Korea that many visitors never see. Pack your water, lace up your shoes, greet your fellow hikers and enjoy the view from the top.