Easy Walking Autumn Trails in Seoul and the Greater Seoul Area

You can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage of various trees in the parks, palaces, and lakesides of Seoul and the greater Seoul area without needing to travel far into the mountains. These locations are easily accessible by subway or bus, and you can explore without hiking gear, which is a definite plus. This list provides a selection of great spots for leisurely walks mingled with historical sites and picturesque lakeside views, from Seoul Forest to Incheon Grand Park.

When we say that these areas are easy to walk, it doesn’t mean they are entirely barrier-free. Consider the stone paths and dirt roads of the palaces, the gentle hills of the parks, and the long circular paths by the lakes. Choose a central section based on the physical condition of your group, aiming for walks of around an hour, and check for restrooms, benches, and public transport exits in advance. On weekends, public transport often proves to be quicker than parking, and make sure to verify any reservation areas separately. Remember that the representative tree species vary by location, giving different color vibes even within the same week.

Rather than trying to catch the perfect peak day for autumn foliage, city walks to enjoy the changing colors of ginkgo trees, zelkova trees, and maple trees can be much more enjoyable. The mornings are relatively quiet, and the colors of the leaves are vivid, while the time around sunset offers a softer light, but do calculate your exit and return times. Wear practical shoes that aren’t slippery and an outer layer that you can easily remove to suit changing temperatures, rather than heavy hiking gear.

When taking photos, be sure not to block bike paths and jogging trails, and avoid stepping into planting areas while gathering fallen leaves. Wet leaves after rain can be slippery even on flat ground, and events at palaces and parks may change your usual routes. After enjoying the autumn foliage, keeping it simple by visiting a nearby café or place to eat can enhance your experience. Follow the guidelines for pets, bicycles, and mats according to each location. On days with lots of fallen leaves, expect to spend more time moving around and if you feel too tired, head back to the nearest exit.