Hiking Bukhansan Alone: What I Learned
Seoul is a city that never sleeps, yet just a short subway ride away lies a sanctuary for silence, strength, and solitude: Bukhansan National Park. With jagged granite peaks, lush forest trails, and panoramic views over the Korean capital, Bukhansan is both physically demanding and emotionally rewarding.
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| Local Experiences: Hiking Bukhansan Alone: What I Learned |
I hiked it alone.
I’m not a professional hiker — far from it. I don’t own trekking poles, and I’ve never eaten trail mix willingly. But one sunny Saturday, I decided to climb Bukhansan solo. Here’s what I learned — not just about hiking, but about myself and Seoul.
π Getting There: Surprisingly Simple
The easiest way to access Bukhansan is via Gupabal Station (Line 3). From there, take Bus 34 or 704 to the Bukhansanseong Entrance. The signage is in English and Korean, and if you’re unsure, just follow the ajummas in hiking gear — they know the way.
There are several trailheads, but I chose the Baegundae Peak route, the highest point at 836 meters.
π₯Ύ What I Packed (and What I Regret)
I brought:
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1L water (not enough)
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Convenience store kimbap (lifesaver)
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Power bank (useful)
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Sunscreen (essential)
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Google Translate app (just in case)
What I wish I brought:
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Gloves (the ropes are rough)
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More water
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A small towel
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More confidence in my knees
Tip: There are no shops once you’re inside the trail. Stock up before entering.
π️ The Climb: Humbling but Worth It
The trail began gently enough — shaded paths, occasional squirrels, and chatty groups of older Korean hikers. But halfway up, it turned into a full-body workout. Steel cables and steep stone scrambles tested both my legs and lungs.
There’s a quiet camaraderie on the trail. Even though I didn’t speak Korean, fellow hikers offered nods, smiles, and the occasional “νμ΄ν !” ("You got this!").
The final ascent to Baegundae is steep. You're pulling yourself up on ropes with sheer drops beside you. My heart was pounding — from effort and a little fear — but when I reached the top…
It. Was. Glorious.
A 360° view of Seoul, with the city skyline on one side and untouched mountain ridges on the other. It felt like I was on the edge of two worlds.
π What I Learned (Besides My Limits)
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Seoul is a city of contrasts — and Bukhansan embodies that. The fact that such wilderness exists within the capital is magical.
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You’re never really alone — Even hiking solo, the kindness of strangers will carry you further than you think.
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Confidence grows one step at a time — I started unsure but finished proud. That confidence leaked into other parts of my expat life, too.
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Preparation matters — both physically and mentally. Bukhansan is not a casual stroll.
π§♀️ For Your First Time Hiking Alone in Korea
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Start early: Trails get crowded around 10–11 AM.
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Check the weather: Slippery rocks are no joke.
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Download Naver Maps or KakaoMap: Google Maps won’t help much in the mountains.
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Respect the quiet: Many hikers come for spiritual clarity, not conversation.
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Bring trash bags: There are no bins — pack out everything.
π Final Thought: You’re Stronger Than You Think
If you’re in Seoul and looking for something beyond street food and shopping, consider this: hike a mountain alone. Let Bukhansan humble you, push you, and ultimately lift you up.
There’s nothing like catching your breath at 800 meters high, looking down at the sprawling city you now call home, and whispering to yourself, “I did this.”
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