Conquering Baegundae: Hiking Seoul’s Tallest Mountain
On Monday afternoon, I set out to conquer Baegundae(백운대), Bukhansan National Park's(북한산국립공원) highest peak and the tallest point in Seoul. Nestled on the outskirts of Seoul, Bukhansan National Park is the city’s only national park, offering a range of peaks and trails for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its breathtaking views and diverse terrain, it’s no wonder Bukhansan is a favorite among locals and expats.
Starting from Bukhansan Ui Station (북한산우이역), I embarked on a 5-hour round-trip hike to Baegundae and back. The trail offered a mix of moderate paths and steep inclines, with a few rock scrambles thrown in for good measure.
I packed light but made sure to cover the essentials for a hard hike: 1L of Gatorade, 2 protein bars, 2 packs of gummy worms (for the simple carbs plus they are fun to eat), and a roll of kimbap to enjoy at the summit.
The trailhead was easy to find, and I quickly found myself immersed in the tranquil beauty of 북한산. Early on, the path was shaded and relatively gentle, lulling me into a false sense of ease. However, as I progressed, the trail began to show its true colors.
Though the path became more difficult about halfway up, the real challenge started near the summit. A series of steep inclines and rocky sections demanded careful footing and the use of ropes to navigate. These scrambles, while thrilling, required far more focus and stamina than any of my previous hikes.
🥾Gear tip: While gloves and hiking boots aren’t strictly necessary, they’ll make your life much easier when tackling the ropes and rugged terrain.
Finally, I reached the summit of Baegundae. While the view was impressive, the 미세먼지 (fine dust) slightly dulled the otherwise stunning panorama. Even so, the summit’s rocky outcrop offered a breathtaking perspective of Seoul, with the city’s sprawling skyline blending into the surrounding mountains. I found a spot to enjoy my lunch and reflect on the journey, feeling a well-earned sense of accomplishment.
Even though it was a weekday, the summit was bustling with fellow hikers—a reminder of 북한산’s popularity, especially in the autumn season.
Heading down was less strenuous but still required caution, particularly on the steeper sections. Especially since the fallen autumn leaves masked some loose rocks.
Overall, the hike was a challenging yet rewarding experience. While the summit was crowded, the views were stunning, and the journey itself was an unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for a hike that offers a mix of beauty and difficulty, Bukhansan’s Baegundae is definitely worth the effort.