We’re well into the fall season here in South Korea now, and it’s absolutely my favorite time of the year. Now, of course, this year is a little wild with two newborns in the mix, but we’re still managing to get out and do some small family-friendly hikes near Camp Humphreys to introduce the twins to exploring with our family. We’ve managed one of our favorite local hikes thus far at Sangtubong Peak at Yeonginsan Recreational Forest, and we’re hoping to tackle another. But, until then, we’re sharing our favorite hikes near Camp Humphreys that you’ll be sure to enjoy – even with littles.
Family-Friendly Fall Hikes Near Camp Humphreys
Jangtaesan Recreational Forest // Absolutely topping our list of family-friendly fall hikes near Camp Humphreys is this gem. Though it’s a bit further than some of the others at around 2 hours away, it’s absolutely worth the drive. Seeing the metasequoias ablaze in orange is otherworldly. The colors change and drop later than most of the foliage in Korea, too, so the time to visit is right about now. Be aware; this is insanely busy on weekends during the fall season, and parking will fill up fast.
Pinnacle Four Trail // This is a local favorite, partly because it’s so close and partly because it’s the best of both worlds. While it has its challenging elements, like the ropes near the top, the winding path through the woods is not so bad. It’s a shorter hike at 2.4 miles roundtrip (depending on where you start), and the views of the local area are worth it any time of the year.
Mangwolsa Temple and Podaeneungseon Ridge // If you’ve ever hiked in Korea or around Korea, you’ve likely heard of Bukhansan National Park in Seoul. This hike, though in Seoul, is actually only about an hour and a half away (without traffic), of course. The fall colors in the national parks are absolutely insane, and the views of the city sprawling below are one hundred percent worth the drive!
Maansan Trail // Often hailed as the Bee & Honey Cafe hike, this local gem is a favorite because of its proximity and overall ease for all skill levels. The elevation gain isn’t too much at just 295 feet, and it is only 1.6 miles roundtrip. Plus, once you’re done, and you’ve trekked through the woods, you can stop at Bee & Honey Cafe for a treat. It’s a win-win!
Sangtubong Peak in Asan // At only about 35 minutes from Camp Humphreys, this one is one of our absolute favorites for a few reasons. First, the foliage is stunning. Second, they actually have a whole chrysanthemum display for the season, as well, which is just so Korean. This is the hike we did with the babies this past weekend, and it was so nice to introduce them (and us) to the great outdoors as a family of seven.
When we moved here last time from Washington State, I’d hoped for great hiking here in Korea, and I definitely wasn’t disappointed. We’re so excited to get back out on our favorite trails and explore more of this beautiful country this time around because South Korea has some absolutely epic hikes across the entire peninsula!
