Seoul Hiking Week returns this autumn from October 26 to November 15, 2026, and it is one of the easiest ways to try hiking in Seoul without planning a route yourself. The best part is the choice. Each week centers on a different mountain, and the programs range from sunrise hikes to yoga to a Halloween night walk. Here is how I would choose.
How it works
Seoul Hiking Week runs for three weeks, and the Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers take turns hosting. Week 1 (October 26 to November 1) is Mount Gwanak, week 2 (November 2 to 8) is Mount Bukhan, and week 3 (November 9 to 15) is Mount Bugak. The programs fall under four themes: Extreme, Wellness, Signature and Night. Because these are organized events, you do not have to plan a route yourself. Meeting points and start times are best confirmed on each program page.
If you want something relaxed
Week 2 has yoga after a visit to Wontong Temple on Mount Bukhan. It is the one I would pick if you want fresh air without a big climb. If you are an early riser, there is also a sunrise hike on Mount Dobong that week.
If you want a challenge
Week 2 also has an east-to-west traverse of Bukhansan and a climb to Baegundae Peak. Week 1 includes tougher routes on Mount Gwanak, so confirm the exact course on the sign-up page when you choose.
If you want something different
On Halloween, October 31, there is a costumed night hike around Mount Nam. You can bring your own costume or pick up glow bracelets, hats and temporary tattoos from booths on site. In week 3, a night hike along the Seoul City Wall carries traditional lanterns, which sounds like the most photogenic option to me. Week 3 also has a summit hike up Mount Inwang. If you want more on this part of the city, see [internal link: Bugaksan / Inwangsan post].
Free gear for international visitors
The Korea Times reports that international visitors can rent hiking equipment for free at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers, which are linked to Mount Bukhan, Bugak and Gwanak. That means you can start without boots or poles of your own. The centers take rental reservations through Klook, so the center’s website is the best place to check the latest terms for the event period.
How to sign up
Registration for week 1 is already open, and later weeks open in turn. You can find the registration links on the center’s Linktree page, and meeting times and places are posted on its Instagram account. Spots go quickly. The Korea Times says nearly 11,000 people took part in autumn 2025 and about 6,700 in spring 2026, and the organizers expect an even bigger crowd this time, so I would register as soon as your week opens.
My quick picks
Relaxed: the yoga at Wontong Temple. Challenge: the Baegundae climb. Photos: the lantern night hike on the Seoul City Wall. Just for fun: the Halloween walk at Mount Nam.
What to bring
Wear layers, because mountain mornings in late October are cold, and bring water and a snack. If you are not renting boots, choose shoes with good grip. Check the weather the evening before you go.
Before You Book
A few details are best confirmed with the organizers. Fees, group sizes, age limits, children’s participation and English guidance are not listed in the announcements I read. The official Seoul Hiking Tourism Center website has English pages, programs and gear rental information, and the Linktree page lists the latest sign-up links. Have a great autumn hike.
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