
Bukhansan
This scenic one-day hike in Bukhansan National Park begins at the Bukhansanseong Information Center, just north of Seoul. The trail starts gently, passing a series of historic temples and mountain shrines nestled in the forest — including small Buddhist sites and stone monuments — giving the early part of the hike a peaceful and cultural feel. As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, eventually reaching Moonsubong Peak (문수봉, 728 m) — a striking granite summit with sweeping views over Seoul, the surrounding ridgelines, and deep forest valleys. The route continues along a rocky ridge, with a mix of exposed sections and quiet woodland paths, before descending toward the Dulle-gil Tampang Annae Center (둘레길탐방안내센터) on the eastern side of the park. This point-to-point hike is approximately 9 to 10 kilometers long and takes 5 to 6 hours, depending on pace. It offers a great mix of nature, culture, and panoramic views, with fewer crowds than the popular Baegundae route. The trail is well-marked and easily reached by public transport from central Seoul. If you're looking for a peaceful, challenging, and culturally rich day hike near Seoul, this route over Moonsubong is one of the best options in Bukhansan National Park.
Hike Details
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Type
- Point to Point
- Duration
- 1 days
- Total Distance
- 9.5 km (5.9 mi)
- Elevation Gain
- (2228 ft)679 m
Location
- Continent
- Asia
- Country
- South Korea
- Region
- Bukhansan
- Best Season
- June, July, August
Photo Gallery
Highlights
- Temples and mountain shrines near trailhead
- Moonsubong Peak (728 m) summit views
- Granite ridgelines and rock formations
- Forest hiking trails near Seoul
- Peaceful alternative to Baegundae route.
Requirements
- Moderate fitness level
- Comfortable with steep climbs and stone steps
- Proper hiking shoes
- Water and snacks for 5–6 hours
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Basic trail awareness.
Route Map
Day by Day
Day 1: Bukhansanseong Information Center to Dulle-gil Tampang Annae Center via Moonsubong Peak
Begin at the Bukhansanseong Information Center, located just north of Seoul. The trail starts gently through forest, passing several historic Buddhist temples and mountain shrines. As you continue, the climb becomes steeper and rockier, leading to the granite summit of Moonsubong Peak (728 m), which offers sweeping views over Seoul and the surrounding ridgelines. The trail then follows a rocky ridge with exposed sections and quiet woodland paths before descending to the Dulle-gil Tampang Annae Center on the eastern side of Bukhansan National Park. This peaceful and culturally rich route is well-marked, moderately challenging, and easily accessible by public transport from the city.
Sleeping Options
The Capsule Myeongdong
How to Get There
Download GPX Track
Download the GPX track for this hike to use with your GPS device or hiking app.