Bukhansan Dulegil Trail: Seoul’s Hidden Gem

Bukhansan Dulegil trail is one of several trails in Seoul’s famous national park. At about 2.7 miles and around 700 feet of elevation, Dulegil is considered a moderate hike, while the other trails (some of which require strapping into steel cables) are considered more advanced. It is a beautiful hike with excellent opportunities to see the forest, the mountains, and the city.

The trail is made of gravel, with many sections with stairs and/or stones to step on. It is a very vertical hike, as South Korea is 70% mountainous, and has lots of ups and downs. The trail is marked by a round, orange sign that shows two people hiking in the mountains. Be sure to always follow this sign. The trail crosses over small paved roads several times, where you can find bathrooms, vending machines, air showers, and workout equipment.

About two miles into the trail, you’ll find a black wooden tower. If you climb it, you will discover a breathtaking view of Seoul that really shows you just how massive the city is. Do not miss out on this tower!

Views from the wooden tower — Seoul unfurls below.

If you take a detour at one of the paved roads, you can find a colorful Buddhist temple to explore!

Due to the barrier to entry and physical demands of the hike, we ran into almost no other tourists. This trail really is a hidden gem.

Things to bring:

• Water Bottle
• Phone
• Bug Spray
• Sunglasses
• Good Hiking Shoes
• A few Korean words to exchange with local hikers

Things to know:

• Watch out for wild boar! Never go on the trail at night. If you see a boar, don’t stimulate it or turn your back to it. Instead, remain still or slowly move away until it leaves.
• Be careful and mind your step. Loose gravel or uneven rocks can trip you, especially if you’re going downhill.
• Pack light because you’ll be carrying whatever you bring up and down a lot of hills.

This hike is surprisingly untouched by tourists and is a beautiful hidden gem. It is truly stunning and reveals parts of Seoul that you couldn’t have seen elsewhere. If you have the chance to go on Bukhansan Dulegil trail, don’t miss it!