Granite-peak-studded Bukhansan National Park is so close to Seoul that it’s possible to visit by subway – which partly accounts for why it sees more than 10 million hikers a year. It offers sweeping mountaintop vistas, maple leaves, rushing streams and remote temples. Even though it covers nearly 80 sq km, the park’s proximity to the city (45 minutes by subway) means it gets crowded, especially on weekends.
Popular for hiking and rock climbing , the park is divided into two sections, the Bukhan-san and Dobong-san areas. Both are separate destinations that feature multiple scenic trails leading to mountain peaks. Neither are a stroll in the park, and are quite strenuous. Bring plenty of water.
In the northern area a popular hike is the climb up Dobong-san (740m), which climaxes with the spectacular ridge-top peak climb. Along the way be sure to take signed detours to visit atmospheric forested temples Cheonchuk-sa (천축사) on the way up and Mangwol-sa (망월사) upon descent – around a four-hour trek in total.
The southern part has South Korea's highest peak, Baegundae (836m), a 3½-hour return trip via the Bukhansanseong trail. For rock climbers, nearby Insu-bong (810m) has some of the best multipitch climbing in Asia and routes of all grades.
