Suraksan, Seoul - wide road with vehicles
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Suraksan Seoul

4.4
·372 reviews·Namyangju-si, South Korea

A 2,092-ft. mountain in Seoul offering scenic trails, waterfalls, and temples with rewarding city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Suraksan, Seoul - wide road with vehicles

Suraksan Seoul

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 2,092-ft. mountain in Seoul offering scenic trails, waterfalls, and temples with rewarding city views.

4.4
(372 reviews)

"The summit views are absolutely breathtaking, making the climb well worth it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations might be limited.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Suraksan Summit Views

Suraksan Summit Views

Summit

Panoramic cityscapes and mountain vistas await at the peak. A rewarding climb for breathtaking photo opportunities.

Waterfall Trails

Waterfall Trails

Various trails

Discover serene waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. A refreshing and picturesque element of the hike.

Sacred Temples

Sacred Temples

Various locations

Find moments of peace at ancient temples nestled within the mountain's natural beauty.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Suraksan Adventure

Suraksan offers stunning views, but crowds can be high, especially on weekends and holidays. Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy the trails and waterfalls with fewer people. Early mornings are best for cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

Getting to Suraksan

While tours are an option, many travelers find it easy to navigate Suraksan independently. Public transport from Seoul is efficient, with buses and subways getting you close to trailheads. Researching specific routes beforehand is recommended.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cafe with waterfall view in Seoul, South Korea ✅☕️🍵🏞️ Located not far from Hongdae it’s called 카페 폭포 Cafe Pokpo, it’s so nice to sit and relax while listening to the sound of waterfall🥰🏞️ | seoul trav...
@anakjajan
126.4K likes • 2.3M views

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. Instagram

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations might be limited. Reddit

Some of the must see places in Seoul 🇰🇷🫣 Book your travel activities on @Klook Philippines ‼️ Save more than 50% discount if you will purchase the Discover Seoul Pass or Klook Pass Seoul. This gives ...
@thatsojameela
98.1K likes • 2.6M views
정상도 찍기 전에 산크닉도 즐기고🌸 중간중간 사진도 많이 찍구 날씨가 좋으니 냅다 눕기 (누워야함...누우러 가는거임. 야외에서 누워있는거 사랑하는 편) 무릉도원이 여기세요🫰🏻 #수락산(637m)_20250322 •코스: 석림사~기차바위~주봉(637m)~석림사 •거리: 약7km •시간:6시간(쉬는시간포함)
gre_hiking
1.4K likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the views

The summit offers incredible photo ops. Don't forget your camera or phone! Instagram

🗺️ Download offline maps

Cell service can be spotty. Having offline maps ensures you won't get lost. Reddit

오늘은 수락산과 함께 ^^~~ 위치:📍Suraksan 수락산 서울특별시 노원구 상계동 1227 in Korea 날짜: 04.05.25 (일요일) 함께해준:@dinakodirovaa and hiking team 😎수락산 다녀왔어요. 초반에는 조금 힘들었지만 경치가 너무 예쁘고 공기도 맑아서 기분이 정말 좋았어요. 정상에서 보는 전망은 최고였어요! 힐링하고...
rayhon.korean
142 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. Instagram

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Refill stations might be limited. Reddit

📸 Capture the views

The summit offers incredible photo ops. Don't forget your camera or phone! Instagram

🗺️ Download offline maps

Cell service can be spotty. Having offline maps ensures you won't get lost. Reddit

⏰ Start early to beat crowds

Weekends and holidays get busy. An early start means a more peaceful experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(372 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Suraksan is praised for its stunning summit views and beautiful waterfalls, offering a rewarding hiking experience accessible from Seoul. While generally well-maintained, some trails can be challenging, and crowds can be significant on weekends. Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and spiritual sites.

"Good trail..Good view also. But since the peak is narrow, i can not enjoy until i satisfy. There is someone sell beverage on the peak, so no need to worry if you need more water. There is also pajeon shop, in the middle of trail. You can enjoy it while steeping your feet in the water"

d. kurn

"Good trail. Recommend staying on the main trail because the side trails are not well maintained. Starts easy then gets really steep halfway through."

David Cy

"One of the best hiking trails to the top. Some trails are so well developed. The peak to Suraksan is 2092 feet or 637.7 meters of elevation hike. Most of the peaks on Suraksan mountain ranges tend to have huge boulders for display. The views around each peak is breath-takingly beautiful of Seoul, Namyangju and Uijeongbu cities. From one of the mountain ranges of Suraksan to the other end takes about 5 hours and if you add Bulamsan next to it, add another 4 hours to complete. Highly recommended hiking trails of both mountain ranges!!!"

Buster Got it

What People Like

Breathtaking summit views
Picturesque waterfalls
Accessible from Seoul

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Steep trail sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Suraksan via public transport. Take the Seoul subway to Dobongsan Station (Line 1) or Suraksan Station (Line 7), followed by a short bus ride or walk to the trailhead. Some travelers opt for taxis from nearby subway stations for convenience. TikTokReddit

Yes, public transport is quite efficient. Many visitors use the subway and bus system to access the mountain, making it a popular day trip from Seoul. TikTok

While not as common as tours for larger national parks, some local tour operators might offer excursions. However, many travelers find it straightforward to visit independently. Reddit

Dobongsan Station on Subway Line 1 is a common starting point, offering access to various trails. Suraksan Station on Line 7 is another option, depending on your chosen route. TikTok

Driving is possible, but parking can be limited, especially on busy days. Public transportation is often recommended to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Suraksan is a public mountain and generally does not require an entrance fee for hiking. Access to trails is free. Reddit

Suraksan is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's advisable to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

Unlike some other national parks, Suraksan typically does not have an admission fee for general hiking access. Reddit

Since there's no general admission fee, advance ticket booking is not necessary for hiking. Reddit

There are no specific passes for Suraksan itself. However, if you plan to visit other attractions in Seoul, consider a Discover Seoul Pass or Klook Pass for potential savings. TikTok

🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the route to the summit for panoramic views and trails leading to waterfalls. Some hikers enjoy combining Suraksan with nearby Puramsan for a more challenging rocky climb. InstagramReddit

The duration varies greatly depending on the trail and your pace. A hike to the summit and back can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, not including breaks. Instagram

Yes, Suraksan is known for its picturesque waterfalls, which are a highlight for many visitors, especially during or after rainy seasons. TikTokInstagram

Suraksan offers a range of difficulties. Some trails are moderate, while others can be steep and challenging, comparable to other Seoul mountains like Bukhan or Gwanak. Reddit

Yes, there are sacred temples located within Suraksan, offering a peaceful spiritual experience amidst nature. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul and the surrounding mountains. The waterfalls and temples also provide beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram

The summit is ideal for capturing sunrise or sunset, offering stunning light over the cityscape. Be mindful of hiking in the dark if you stay for sunset. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in most areas. However, always be respectful of any designated no-photography zones within temples or sacred sites. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant green of the foliage. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Suraksan can be a great family outing, but choose your trails wisely. Opt for shorter, less steep paths that lead to accessible waterfalls or viewpoints. The presence of temples can also offer a cultural learning experience for children. TikTokInstagram

Ensure kids have comfortable shoes and plenty of snacks and water. Consider bringing a small backpack for them to carry their own essentials. The views from the summit can be a fantastic motivator for younger hikers to reach their goal. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Suraksan is a popular destination for solo hikers, offering a safe and well-trafficked environment. The trails are generally well-marked, and you'll likely encounter other hikers, especially on popular routes. InstagramReddit

Start early to enjoy a more peaceful experience and ample opportunities for photography. Downloading offline maps is crucial for navigation, and letting someone know your hiking plans is always a good safety practice. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Suraksan is a photographer's delight, especially from the summit. The panoramic cityscapes are particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Don't miss opportunities to capture the cascading waterfalls and the serene atmosphere of the mountain temples. A wide-angle lens is recommended for the expansive views, and a tripod can be useful for capturing the motion of the water. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Suraksan's Trails

Suraksan offers a variety of hiking trails catering to different fitness levels. The most popular route leads to the summit, providing spectacular panoramic views of Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province. Many trails are well-maintained, but some sections can be steep and rocky, requiring good hiking boots and a reasonable level of fitness. InstagramReddit

For those seeking a more challenging experience, consider combining Suraksan with the adjacent Puramsan, known for its granite rock formations. Hikers often recommend starting early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable in certain areas. Reddit

Key trails often pass by serene waterfalls and sacred temples, adding cultural and natural beauty to the hike. These spots are perfect for a refreshing break and offer excellent photography opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing Suraksan's Natural Beauty

The waterfalls are a significant draw for visitors to Suraksan, offering a tranquil escape and a beautiful natural spectacle. The sound of cascading water provides a soothing backdrop to the hiking experience. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the waterfalls, Suraksan is dotted with ancient temples that offer a glimpse into Korea's spiritual heritage. These sites provide moments of quiet reflection amidst the natural splendor of the mountain. Instagram

The changing seasons bring different charms to Suraksan. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, autumn paints the landscape in vibrant hues, and winter can blanket the mountain in snow, creating a serene, albeit colder, hiking environment. Instagram

Suraksan vs. Other Seoul Mountains

When comparing Suraksan to other popular hiking spots in Seoul like Bukhan or Gwanak, Suraksan is often described as having a moderate difficulty, with some steeper sections. It's generally considered less strenuous than Bukhan Mountain for many hikers. Reddit

While Bukhan National Park is larger and more expansive, Suraksan offers a more accessible yet rewarding hiking experience, particularly for those looking for stunning city views without an entire day commitment. The presence of waterfalls and temples also adds unique elements not always found on other mountains. TikTokInstagram

Many hikers find Suraksan to be a great option for a half-day trip from Seoul, offering a good balance of physical activity and natural beauty. Its accessibility via public transport further enhances its appeal for both locals and tourists. TikTok

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