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The Bulamsan Trail is a hiking trail located in Seoul, South Korea, spanning the districts of Nowon-gu and the city of Namyangju in Gyeonggi Province. It refers to a course that encircles Mount Bulamsan, allowing hikers of various skill levels to enjoy a full lap around the mountain. This trail offers a variety of routes suitable for beginners to experienced hikers.
Mount Bulamsan, with an elevation of 509.6 meters, provides a range of terrain, including steep stair-climbing sections and more gradual paths, catering to diverse preferences. Hikers can start their ascent from different points such as Junggye-dong, Gongneung-dong, or Byeolnae-myeon.
On the mountain, Hakdoam is a Buddhist temple located along the trail, serving as a popular attraction. Positioned midway through the Bulamsan hike, Hakdoam provides a place for hikers to take a break, enjoy the surroundings, and explore the history and culture of the area. The temple vicinity also features small shops and tea houses, enhancing the overall hiking experience.
Both the Bulamsan Trail and Hakdoam contribute to the natural and cultural enjoyment of locals and tourists alike, offering a splendid destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural exploration near Seoul.
Located across Junggye-dong and Gongneung-dong in Nowon-gu and Byeolnae-myeon in Namyangju-si, Bulamsan is a mountain with an altitude of 509.6m. Though not very high, the hiking routes typically start from Gongneung-dong, Junggye-dong, or Byeolnae-myeon.
For beginners, there is an easy Bulamsan Trail starting slightly above the KEPCO Training Institute, across from the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute. There are also various entry points from Junggye-dong. While not challenging for Bulamsan beginners, those aiming for the summit should carefully choose their starting point.
 © NAVER Corp. Bulamsan Seoul, Nowon-gu, Sanggye-dong
Bulamsan has an altitude of 509.6m. Depending on the starting point, there are steep staircase paths and relatively gentle slopes. The course starting from Sanggye Station to Bulam Daelim and Cheongam 2nd Complex Apartments is relatively steep and includes stairs. On the other hand, the route going up near Sanghyeon Church, opposite Junggye Jugong Apartments 5th Complex, is relatively gentle.
 © NAVER Corp. Sanghyeon Church Seoul, Nowon-gu, 290 Hangeulbiseok-ro, Sanghyeon Church
The path going up next to Sanghyeon Church is considered one of the easier Bulamsan beginner hiking routes. The Bulamsan parking lot, located near Junggye 1-dong Community Center, has free parking on Sundays.
In summary, for Bulamsan beginners, the recommended hiking route is to start near Sanghyeon Church in Junggye-dong, pass the observatory, and proceed straight towards the summit. However, there is a challenging section involving a rope-assisted climb on a cliff, suitable for those in the fourth grade or higher. If uncertain about this section, the staircase route starting from Bulam Daelim Apartments is an alternative, although it has more stairs.
 © NAVER Corp. Bulamsan Butterfly Garden Seoul, Nowon-gu, Hangeulbiseok-ro 12-gil, 51-27
The first introduced parking lot is Bulamsan Butterfly Garden Parking, which has limited space.
 © NAVER Corp. Bulamsan Hiking Trail Entrance Namyangju-si, Byeolnae-dong
The entrance to Bulamsan Hiking Trail in Byeolnae-dong, Namyangju-si. If approaching from the east, you can use the Bulamsan parking lot near Bulamsa Temple.
 © NAVER Corp. Bulamsa Temple Namyangju-si, 190 Bulamsan-ro
Bulamsa Temple is an ancient and relatively less-known temple, providing a healing atmosphere. Due to the lack of summer rain, the streams in the area may be dry.
Throughout the Bulamsan Trail, there are restroom facilities to address any hygiene needs during the hike.
Midway through the trail, signposts guide hikers towards Hwarangdae Station and Bulamsan Butterfly Garden. The route also indicates the direction to Hakdoam when climbing the hill. Although it includes a steep cement road, even elementary school students can manage it.
 © NAVER Corp. Hakdoam Steep Cement Road A challenging section, but after about 7 minutes of climbing, you can reach the entrance of Hakdoam.
Halfway up, the climber switched to using traditional wooden shoes. This is evidence of a proper workout.
Hakdoam Entrance Parking Lot (Free) Parking is available for about 10 vehicles. Parking here and climbing the final slope for about 3 minutes will lead you to an ancient small rock-like temple.
 Hakdoam offers a panoramic view of North Seoul.
 Hakdoam Daeungjeon, adorned with lanterns in preparation for Buddha’s Birthday celebration.
Within Hakdoam premises, there are small shops and a tea house where you can enjoy a cup of tea.
 Maeansanbosal Sitting Statue located at the rear of Hakdoam Daeungjeon.
 View from Samsunggak. Although not completely clear, on sunny days, the scenery can be breathtaking.
As a follower of Buddhism, reflecting on personal behavior is essential.
 A shot while looking at the roof of Dawoongjeon. Although the climb was challenging, the refreshing feeling of mountain breeze on a sunny day is indescribable.
 With spring passing and summer approaching, the landscape around Bulamsan and Hakdoam reflects the changing season.