Although it’s a global metropolis, Seoul has quite a few mountains and hills of varying difficulty that are quite popular with locals and visitors alike. On any given day, you’ll come across groups and individuals of all ages on some of Seoul’s most popular mountain trails. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for something different, doing a climb in Seoul makes for a very unique and memorable experience. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best places to get your climb on.

For a challenging yet rewarding climb, head to northwest Seoul to find Bukhansan, or Mount Bukhan, which is Seoul’s highest peak. At 836.5 meters above sea level the climb to the top isn’t for everyone but it’s still one of Seoul’s most popular climbs as it offers some breathtaking views of the city on clear days. There are a number of trails of varying difficulty hikers can choose from. For rock climbers, Dobongsan, which is part of Bukhansan National Park, is your best bet. Dobongsan holds a few trails some of which are quite narrow and rocky. Certain parts requires making climbs using metal cables, steel barriers, and widely spaced footholds so be prepared accordingly. For a hike that’s a bit easier, try walking along the old Seoul City Wall trails on Bugaksan, an offshoot of the larger Bukhansan. The trails pass along historic sites, temples, gates and more for an interesting hike.

Another historically significant mountain nearby is Inwangsan which holds an ancient fortress and Ingwangsa, a Buddhist temple that played a role in supporting Korean independence fighters against Japanese rule. The mountain has several interesting-shaped boulders with names that fit their description including eagle rock and skirt rock. Interestingly, the mountain also houses a shrine to Dangun, a legendary figures said to be the founder of Korea and Guksadang Shrine one of the most important sites in Korean Shamanism.

If you’re south of the Han River and looking for somewhere closer, Gwanaksan is another mountain that’s revered for its beautiful scenery. Possessing rugged peaks and deep valleys, the diverse scenery- especially through the seasons- makes it a favorite for nature lovers. The summit of the mountain, Yeonjudae offers stunning views and also houses the historic Buddhist temple, Yeonjuam.

In eastern Seoul, Achasan is popular for those wanting to watch the sun rise, especially on the first day of the year. Remnants of ancient structures such as a military fortress from the Goguryeo era found on the mountain has led to parts of Achasan being designated a national historic site. It’s a relatively easy hike and perfect for beginners.

Another mountain worth checking out is Bulamsan in northern Seoul. The 508m mountain is rocky with wide spread ridges that’s a moderately challenging hike. The mountain attracts rock climbers who use the cliffs to practice while the Bulam Falls is popular in winter for ice ridge climbers.

For relatively easy climbing, check out Naksan near Dongdaemun. The hike to the top is quite easy and also has a trail that follows along Seoul’s City Walls. Don’t forget to check out the Ehwa Art Village with its popular public art and murals and cafes and shops.

And last but not least, Namsan, which serves as the home of N Seoul Tower, is probably one of Seoul’s best known mountain and the Namsan Park is great for all ages for its lush relief in urban Seoul! You can explore around the park or take a trail up to N Seoul Tower itself. Stop by the National Theater of Korea near the park to see what performances are currently showing.