This was not the easiest trip to make. You know that moment of adrenaline in the morning before taking on the day? I literally tried to dig up a year’s worth when I looked out the window and saw the grey, cold and wet morning. Alas, I texted “We Are Warriors!” to my companions and for a couple of hours we fought the elements.
How to get there: The easiest way to get there is to take the subway to Hwarangdae Station (Line 6) and depart from Exit 5. You will need to make a 180-degree turn. There is a small park, but you will see stairs heading down towards the river. You are officially back on the trail!
Derek Versus The Elements: So my brand new North Face TriClimate jacket showed up two weeks late and would have been perfect for this hike. Wet and cold, we really picked up the pace and tried to stay under any cover that we could find. If you are new to hiking, I can’t stress purchasing a multi-layered jacket enough. I was stuck wearing my pullover spring jacket which has about as much insulation as a stone tomb.
We Shall Begin: As far as difficultly is concerned, this section can be conquered by even the most newest of hikers. Most of the hike was in the city. As we walked, I was envisioning what this hike would look like during the spring, fall or summer. A slow walk in the city with a loved one, at an easy pace with the leaves of the trees protecting you from the sun. However, in February, the bones of the trees and the dead leaves just aren’t as romantic. The walk along the river would be something to see in the middle of spring, or just after the rainy season as the waters flow.
The light at the end of the tunnel? No, just more rain..
The Urban Jungle: The rest of the hike was just through the city. There were a couple of interesting spots, including a camping ground which was located near Yangwon Station. Also, some interesting architecture, but most of it was just dull, worn buildings and little wildlife (minus some ducks).
Jungrang Campground: Jungrang Campground (중랑캠핑숲) was a camping ground that was located near Yangwon Station. This might be a cool place to take the kids for the weekend without having to leave the comforts of home. They had a spa, playground and restaurants.
Safety at its finest.
Final Thoughts: Bleh. Not the most picturesque hike in the world. I only lasted a couple of hours before the rain, wind, cold and most of all boredom struck. The next section we hike through Mangusan, so I’m hoping there are going to be a little more excitement.
Derek Versus Lonely Planet 
It looks so bleak! Did you at least eat something awesome afterwards to make up for it? Loved the safety bottle and the ducks totally redeemed it 😀
Lol after two hours in the rain I was just ready to go home! That said there were lots of restaurants around there. Should have gotten some bbq.
Tough gig! Although I agree, it should look marvellous in the spring ^^
It seems that Korean landscapes can be sad depending on the season.
Nice blog 🙂
I agree! I can’t wait to put up some spring and summer pictures!
I think its still pretty cool that there are hikes like this in the city, makes it a little easier to head home when you’re over the hike. 🙂
I can’t wait to see spring and summer pictures.
It is amazing! My hiking partner is from Seattle and he is still floored by how accessible the mountain are here! Two weeks from now we start the third leg! Can’t wait! Happy spring to you Green!