This is a hilly run with rewarding views of the city from the summit. It’s one of the better options near the city to get some trail running in, although it is possible to do it in regular running shoes. The summit is at 900 feet. Access can be from Great West Gate, or Yonsei University.
Bongwonsa Temple and 3000 Buddhas
Hill Run: The route starts near the Seodaemun Museum of Natural History, which is near Seodaemun-gu (Great West Gate), one of four great gates to the city, located there since the Joseon dynasty. Follow the well marked route to the Yeonheung Mineral Spring, and then the Muakjeong Pavilion, about 2km. There are badminton courts, outdoor exercise stations and a natural spring. Take a left and follow the signs to Beacon Mound, the peak.
For the return, follow signs down the mountain down Bongwonsa Temple, and either retrace your steps up the mountain or run along the base, which is flatter.
Less Challenging Option: 7km (4.3 mile) walking trail around the mountain. This particular trail never reaches the peak but it does offer some great sights through scenic forests. The trail is well marked.
Add-On: Combine with the wooded trails and paths in nearby Yonsei University, just to the south.
This is a hilly run with rewarding views of the city from the summit. It’s one of the better options near the city to get some trail running in, although it is possible to do it in regular running shoes. The summit is at 900 feet. Access can be from Great West Gate, or Yonsei University.
Bongwonsa Temple and 3000 Buddhas
Hill Run: The route starts near the Seodaemun Museum of Natural History, which is near Seodaemun-gu (Great West Gate), one of four great gates to the city, located there since the Joseon dynasty. Follow the well marked route to the Yeonheung Mineral Spring, and then the Muakjeong Pavilion, about 2km. There are badminton courts, outdoor exercise stations and a natural spring. Take a left and follow the signs to Beacon Mound, the peak.
For the return, follow signs down the mountain down Bongwonsa Temple, and either retrace your steps up the mountain or run along the base, which is flatter.
Less Challenging Option: 7km (4.3 mile) walking trail around the mountain. This particular trail never reaches the peak but it does offer some great sights through scenic forests. The trail is well marked.
Add-On: Combine with the wooded trails and paths in nearby Yonsei University, just to the south.
Essentials
6-7 km roundtrip, depending on route chosen
Great West Gate, near the Museum of National History
The 100+ km of paved multi-use paths along both sides of the Han River (Han-Gang) are among most popular running spots in Seoul. A wonderful greenbelt, with various loop options involving the bridges and great river views. The paths run below the bridges.
Large park on the river, with several km of paths for walking and running. The park has several sections, including an area near the National Assembly. Gorgeous cherry blossom trees along Yunjunro Street in spring.
A route following a popular urban walk around the Old City Wall encircling a part of Seoul, incorporating the slopes of four mountains. Hilly and challenging, with lots of stairs. Up to 19 km, but can be done in sections, with good transport options.
900-foot high South Mountain is an oasis of green, right in the center of Seoul. About 10 km of paved paths, including 2k climb to the summit, quite steep. Great views from the top. More of a challenging trail run.
This urban island park opened in 2005 is a nice spot for running, with 3-4 km of scenic, tree-lined paths through the park's four 'sections'. 'Bike Road' along western perimeter is good longer option.
Pleasant, centrally located park with several km of paved paths, a large field, and a pond. It's 4.5k runner's loop around the perimeter. Great to combine with Han River path, just to the south. National Museum of Korea is in the park.
Five interconnected parks, with miles of trails - in forests, along the river, fields, and more. A highlight is Haneul/Sunset Park, with 291 stairs, and great views.
Site of 1988 Summer Games and now a major sports and recreation complex. There are five different walking/jogging trails, of varied terrain, ranging from 1.3k to 4.3k, featuring gates, gardens, a lake, & sports facilities.
Lovely park for running on the southern banks of the Han River, with 5.7 km of pedestrian paths passing through a scenic landscape of naturally sandy plains and silver grass. The park has numerous other sports facilities & an observation deck.
The second largest palace in Seoul, located east of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the famous Bukchon Hanok Village. The "Secret Garden" has nearly 80 acres of trails and is open to the public. The place is heavily visited, so best to go early.
A nice run in the Jongno District in northern Seoul, combining the small, hilly Naksan Park with a path along the city walls, and a road passing by several murals. This can be run standalone or combined with our Changdeokgung route.
Very pretty university campus with older buildings and pleasant running paths, at base of Ansan Mountain. There are also wooded trails and a forest park on campus. Can combine with Ansan trails.
Good running on waterside bike path from Gwacheon to Gangnam. It's about 7 km one way. Much of the trail is below or away from the road, making for a pleasant canopy. Follows Budong line.
Nearly 11 km path, part of a major urban renewal project opened in 2005. Great spot to walk or run through the heart of the city. Much of the path is below the roadway, passing under 22 bridges, starting at the large Cheonggye Plaza.
A large national park that is unusually close to a major city. Great for hiking, with wooded trails. Some are excellent for trail running. A run/hike to the top of Bukhansan Mountain is a great challenge.
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Essentials
6-7 km roundtrip, depending on route chosen
Great West Gate, near the Museum of National History
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