Sunday: The Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch is holding a hiking tour to the Dobong mountain range, which lies to the north of Mount Bukhan in the Mount Bukhan National Park and is one of the best places to hike in the Seoul area.
The tour will first take an easy one-hour hike up to Mangwol-sa, an interesting old temple set on the mountainside. Those who wish to climb to the highest peak can continue on for another hour and a half. This section of the trail is more strenuous, but there is a handrail.
Jawunbong, the highest peak in the area, provides the backdrop as we follow the trail and enjoy the scenery around and below us. Along the ridge, trails are relatively level, but as we approach the bald granite peaks, the trails become steeper. The route is moderately strenuous but we will keep a pace suitable to the group. Those who do not wish to scale the higher peak can stay around the temple and enjoy the scenery and views from there.
Hikers should bring a packed lunch as we will stop during the hike to eat and rest. Soft drinks can be purchased on arrival near the start of the trail. Light weight hiking boots are recommended, but athletic shoes with a good grip are also acceptable. Your own water bottle is highly recommended. Please remember that you will have to carry everything you need up the mountain so a small day-pack is recommended.
The tour leaves from Yongsan Post Office at 8:30 a.m. and will return at 1:30 p.m.
It costs won 25,000 won ($18.97) for members and 30,000 won for nonmembers.
Sinyongsan Station, line No. 4, exit 1
For more information, visit www.raskb.com or call (02) 763-9483.