Seoul’s proximity to spectacular natural landscapes makes it a perfect base for exploring Korea’s stunning national parks. Whether you’re after a strenuous mountain climb or a peaceful temple visit, Seoul offers a variety of outdoor experiences that suit all tastes and fitness levels. We particularly like the Bukhansan National Park: The Summit Course for its combination of breathtaking views and manageable trail length, and the Seoraksan private day trip for its flexibility and personalized attention. These tours let you escape the city’s hustle and learn about Korea’s rugged beauty.
Seoul’s location next to Bukhansan and Seoraksan means you can easily combine city sightseeing with unforgettable hikes or peaceful temple visits. Whether you prefer a half-day walk or a full-day adventure, this list covers options that cater to different interests, budgets, and fitness levels. For instance, the Ulsanbawi hike offers a challenging climb with stunning rock formations, while the Naejangsan autumn foliage tour provides a more relaxed, scenic experience amid colorful leaves.
1. Bukhansan National Park: The Summit Course
At number 1, this Bukhansan National Park hike is a fantastic choice for those wanting a manageable ascent with a payoff—spectacular city views from Seoul’s highest peak, at 836 meters (2,743 feet). The tour focuses on the fastest trail to the summit—about 4 hours—so you won’t spend all day climbing. The guide ensures safety on the more challenging sections, so even if you’re not an experienced hiker, you’ll enjoy this adventure. Guests praise how well-organized and friendly the guide is, with reviews highlighting the memorable views and good company. After the hike, there’s an optional delicious Korean lunch to relax your muscles.
This tour is ideal for those who want a moderate challenge topped with panoramic views and cultural sites, like old fortress walls and temples. It’s a great way to combine outdoor activity with a taste of Korean history. The value is excellent considering the expert guidance and included lunch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers with some background looking to summit Seoul’s tallest mountain safely and comfortably.
2. Bukhansan National Park- The Summit Course
This slightly longer and more comprehensive Bukhansan Summit Course from Gyeonggi Province offers a 4.5-hour trek to the mountain’s highest point. The tour emphasizes safety and local flavor, with a local lunch included (optional). It’s similar in scope to Tour #1 but is known for a small group setting and a more relaxed pace, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers. Reviews highlight the early start to beat the crowds and the guide’s attentiveness.
Guests especially enjoy the chance to stretch out on a challenging but rewarding climb and then share a hearty meal afterward. The tour’s focus on safety—given the mountain’s rescue statistic of hundreds every year—makes it an excellent choice for cautious adventurers.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those seeking a guided, safe ascent with authentic local cuisine after.
3. Private Day Trip to Seoraksan National Park
If you want a customized, stress-free experience, this private day trip to Seoraksan is perfect. You get door-to-door hotel pickup, and your guide tailors the itinerary, including a cable car ride (subject to weather) and a visit to Shinheungsa Buddhist Temple. The trip takes about 10 hours, making it suitable for those who want a full day of exploring without the hassle of public transport. Guests love the flexible schedule, with some choosing to hike more or less depending on their interest.
Highlights include iconic viewpoints from the Gwongeumseong Peak and the chance to see local wildlife and flora. The option of a private guide ensures you get personalized insights into Korea’s natural and cultural heritage.
Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor lovers who want a flexible, guided experience of one of Korea’s most famous national parks with private attention.
4. Seoraksan National Park Ulsanbawi Hiking from Seoul
For those who crave a serious challenge, the Ulsanbawi hike offers a full-day’s adventure. This private tour lasts about 11 hours and takes you into the rugged heart of Seoraksan, with a focus on reaching the Ulsanbawi rock formation, famous for its dramatic jagged peaks. The guide provides in-depth commentary on the local geology and flora, making the hike educational as well as physically demanding. Along the way, you’ll visit Shinheungsa Temple and a giant bronze Buddha.
Guests rave about the personalized experience and the guide’s knowledge, describing the hike as challenging but rewarding. It’s best suited for fit hikers eager for a full day in nature, with the added bonus of spectacular views from the mountain summit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for experienced hikers seeking an immersive, private trek to one of Korea’s most iconic peaks.
5. Hike and Explore the Wonder of Bukhansan National Park with hiking professional (including Lunch)
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guided experience with a focus on local culture, this Bukhansan hike with a professional guide is a standout. It lasts around 6 hours and includes a delicious Korean lunch after exploring various scenic spots, including temples, fortress walls, and mountain peaks. The guide adjusts the route based on your fitness level, making it accessible for most hikers who want an in-depth cultural and outdoor experience.
Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and the ease of the route, making it suitable for those who want a relaxing yet active day. The small-group format ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Great for cultural enthusiasts and hikers who want a balanced mix of outdoor activity and local insights.
6. Hike at Mt. Bukhansan National Park with professional Guide (including Lunch)
This guided Bukhansan hike with full amenities combines a 6-hour trek with a traditional Korean lunch and door-to-door hotel transfers. The route is customized by a licensed mountain guide, focusing on scenic granite peaks, fortress gates, and historical temples. The guide, Bergen, is praised for his knowledge and flexibility, making this tour accessible for varying fitness levels.
Guests mention the secluded spots and the chance to enjoy a local veggie sushi lunch with panoramic views. The inclusion of transfers simplifies logistics and adds to the value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a guided, culturally rich experience without worrying about logistics.
7. Songnisan National Park & Beopjusa Temple UNESCO site Private Tour
This private tour takes you to Songnisan National Park, home to the UNESCO-listed Beopjusa Temple, and offers the chance to walk through primeval forests and hike up to Munjangdae mountain. The 10- to 12-hour trip includes a 2-hour drive and flexible activities, such as a temple visit, forest walks, or mountain hikes tailored to your preference. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to learn about Korea’s religious and natural heritage from your knowledgeable guide.
Highlights include the historic temple, and the optional mountain hike up Munjangdae, which takes about 5 hours. The tour also provides a lunch box or traditional Korean meal.
Bottom Line: Excellent for culture and nature lovers who want a tailored, full-day experience.
8. From Seoul: Seoraksan National Park and Nami Island Day Trip
This popular day trip combines the breathtaking scenery of Seoraksan with the charming Nami Island. Starting early, the trip features a cable car ride for panoramic mountain views and a walk through Nami’s famous tree-lined paths. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a combination of outdoor adventure and leisurely exploration. Reviews mention the guide’s attentiveness and the beauty of both destinations, which change dramatically with the seasons.
The tour offers a good balance of activity and rest, with enough time to enjoy each site at a comfortable pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting a full, relaxed day of mountain and island scenery.
9. Naejangsan National Park Autumn Foliage One Day Tour from Seoul
This tour is designed to highlight Korea’s famous autumn colors at Naejangsan. The 13- to 14-hour trip includes a comfortable coach, a light breakfast, and ample time to hike or relax amid vivid red and yellow leaves. It’s perfect for fall travelers aiming to see Korea’s best autumn scenery, especially the Naengsan Temple, surrounded by fiery foliage. Reviews note the peaceful environment and the convenience of pickup from major subway stations.
The tour is a great choice for those looking to combine outdoor scenery with cultural visits in a relaxed, guided setting.
Bottom Line: Best for autumn visitors wanting a scenic, leisurely day in Korea’s most colorful mountain.
10. Seoul: Mt. Seoraksan National Park Autumn Foliage Day Tour
This easy-going day trip focuses on Seoraksan’s fall foliage. It’s suitable for those wanting to see vibrant autumn leaves without intense hiking. The full-day excursion provides scenic views of Korea’s tallest peaks and colorful forests, with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviews praise how well the tour captures Korea’s autumn beauty and the hassle-free logistics, making it ideal for casual travelers.
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy Korea’s autumn without overexerting yourself.
Bottom Line: Great for families or those with limited time who want spectacular fall scenery.
11. Mt Bukhansan National Park Hiking Tour
This 6-hour guided hike offers an authentic experience in Seoul’s very own national park. The park combines natural granite peaks with cultural sites like Bukhansanseong Fortress. The guide uses local knowledge to tailor the route, making it accessible and safe for most hikers. It’s a solid choice for those who want to explore the park’s natural beauty and historical sites in one tour.
The reviews highlight the friendly guidance and the chance to enjoy amazing city views from the peaks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full outdoor experience with historical and scenic highlights.
$200.00 per person
12. Seoraksan National Park & Nami Island
This 10-hour tour combines Seoraksan’s rugged beauty with the tranquil charm of Nami Island. Starting early, you’ll experience a cable car ride, a walk through the mountain, and then a peaceful visit to the iconic island famous for its tree-lined avenues. It’s an excellent option for those wanting diverse scenery in one day. Reviewers mention the helpful guides and the beautiful scenery, especially in autumn or winter when the landscape transforms.
This tour balances active exploration with relaxing moments on Nami Island.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking to see two of Korea’s top attractions without multiple trips.
How to Choose the Best National Park Tour in Seoul
When selecting your ideal outdoor adventure, consider your budget, available time, and physical fitness. For a manageable half-day, the Bukhansan Summit Course offers great value with its scenic summit. If you want a full-day, private experience, the Seoraksan private tour provides flexibility and personalized attention. For seasonal beauty, the Naejangsan autumn tour is hard to beat, especially in fall.
Think about whether you’d prefer guided safety in a group or a tailored private experience. Book early during peak seasons like autumn or spring to ensure availability, and consider weather conditions—especially for mountain hikes—before finalizing your plans.
Final Thoughts
Seoul’s nearby national parks range from accessible city hikes to challenging mountain ascents, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast. If you’re after a moderate climb with city views, the Bukhansan Summit Course hits the spot, while the Ulsanbawi trail provides a tougher, more rewarding adventure for experienced hikers. For those seeking culture combined with nature, the Songnisan and Beopjusa Temple tour offers a deeply authentic experience.
Whatever your style, these tours deliver memorable outdoor moments and a chance to see Korea’s natural beauty. Booking early, especially during peak seasons like autumn, is advised to secure your preferred date. Get ready to lace up those hiking boots and enjoy Seoul’s incredible natural scenery—you won’t regret it.