Guided Bukhansan Hikes

About KH

South Korea boasts many beautiful mountains, several of which are conveniently located near the capital city of Seoul and are easily accessible by subway.

I worked for a financial company in Seoul for many years. One day, I went hiking on Gwanaksan Mountain in Gyeonggi Province, but I only made it halfway up because it was quite challenging for me. This experience inspired me to start exploring more mountains in Korea, including Bukhansan Mountain in Seoul.

I fell in love with hiking on weekends and, over the past 30 years, I have hiked many mountains throughout Korea. After retiring several years ago, I began guiding mountain hikes.

Whether the mountain is large or small, there are always risks associated with mountaineering. As a mountain guide, I prioritize safety in hiking.

If you are interested in hiking, please feel free to contact me. I would be happy to suggest a customized hike that suits your preferences.

Email: song.khs@gmail.com

Bukhansan National Park

Awe-Inspiring Majesty

Bukhansan, with an elevation of 836.5 meters, is a remarkable nature park situated amidst urban development. Designated as Korea’s 15th national park in 1983 alongside Dobongsan Mountain, the area has become a popular destination for modern mountaineers, who have established numerous climbing routes along the mountain's rock face.

Insubong Peak on Bukhansan and Seoninbong Peak on Dobongsan are must-visit spots for rock climbers. However, casual hikers will also find the mountain accessible, thanks to its many easier trails and ridges that cater to varying physical abilities and conditions.

At the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views. Baegundae Peak offers unobstructed 360-degree panoramas of all of Seoul and parts of Gyeonggi-do. Bukhansan was once known as Samgaksan, meaning "Three-Horned Mountain," named for its three prominent peaks: Insubong, Baegundae, and Mangyeongdae. For those who find Baegundae too challenging, Yeongbong Peak provides equally stunning views and serves as a viable alternative.

Baegundae–Ui Gugok Trail

This is the shortest route to Baegundae Peak, the highest point of Bukhansan.

The section from Haroojae Pass to Yeongbong Peak is extremely steep. At Yeongbong Peak, standing at 604 meters, hikers are greeted by the impressive rock face of Insubong Peak.

At the summit, which is 836.5 meters tall, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul.

Total distance: 9.98 km

Average travel time: 4 hours and 20 minutes

Difficulty: Advanced

About the Trail:

The section from Haroojae Pass to Yeongbong Peak is steep and slippery. Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate safty gear, such as hiking poles and gloves, and be sure to grip the handrails installed along the path.

The route from Baegundae to Yongammun Gate passes by Baegunbongammun Gate, with a fork in the trail less than 100 meters down. Take the left path to reach Daedongmun Gate, while the right path leads to Yaksuam Hermitage.

Shelter and Hiking Tips:

There are no shelters along the path, so be sure to rest sufficiently at Haroojae Pass before heading up to Baegundae Peak.

Transportation:

From Bukhansan Ui(Doseonsa) Station, the last stop on the Seoul LRT UiSinseol Line, take Exit 2 and walk about five minutes toward the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center(Bukhansan).

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station and get dropped off at the Baegun Vistor Center.

Bukhansanseong–Daenammun Trail

This trail, known for its beautiful scenery and historical sites, is a favorite among hikers. It is also popular with foreigners as it passes through the main castle of the Bukhansanseong Fortress and various historical palace sites. The wildflowers that bloom throughout the year add to the trail's beauty.

Total Travel Distance: 10.2 km

Average Travel Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Difficulty Level: Advanced

About the Trail:

Begin your hike at the Bukhandong History Museum. Enter through the gates of Jungseongmun and Yongammun, then take a detour towards Mangyeongdae Peak.

While this detour adds some distance to your hike, it features a gentler slope, making the journey to Baegunbongammun and Baegundae more manageable.

Shelter and Hiking Tips:

The trail spans over 10 kilometers, featuring steep climbs and descents. It is advisable to take at least a 10-minute break for every hour of hiking.

Be sure to rest and recover at Yaksuam Hermitage, which is located past Daedongsa Temple, before continuing your hike.

Transportation:

To reach the trailhead, take bus No. 704 from Exit 2 of Gupabal Station on Seoul Metro Line 3. Get off at the entrance of Bukhansanseong Fortress.

The Bukhansanseong Visitor Center is approximately 700 meters up the road from there.

My hikes are customized specifically for you