Ten gentle summer trekking courses where you can adjust distance to match your slowest companion and turn back anytime
When you're hiking with someone else, everyone getting back comfortably matters more than reaching the summit. First-time hikers, kids, and families returning to the trail after a long break all feel the same distance differently โ so this list sticks to wide forest paths and short nature trails where you can slow down or turn back partway without much trouble.
Each course's time is a rough guide for adult walking pace, so budget extra for photos and breaks. On out-and-back routes, set a rule before you start: once half your planned time has passed, turn around regardless of how much distance is left.
01
Hallasan Eoseungsaengak Trail
A short 1.3km round trip from Eorimok Trail Center to the Eoseungsaengak summit, about an hour. It's a brief climb that opens onto views of Hallasan's northern slopes, making it a good first trek. Wind and fog can shift quickly even on a short route, so check for closures before heading out.
02
Taebaeksan Geomnyongso Trail
A 1.5km round trip from the Geomnyongso parking lot, about 50 minutes, following a forest path to the source of the Han River. It's gentle enough for kids, but watch your footing on wooden decking and wet dirt sections.
03
Odaesan Seonjae-gil, Woljeongsa to Dongpigol
About 5.4km from Woljeongsa past Hoesageori to Dongpigol, roughly 2 hours, covering just part of the Seonjae-gil trail through forest and valley without much strain. It's one-way, so plan your return bus or transport in advance.
04
Songnisan Sejo-gil, Beopjusa to the Reservoir
A 3km round trip from Beopjusa to the Sejo-gil reservoir, about 1 hour 20 minutes, along flat forest paths and waterside decking. Use the shaded rest areas in the heat and pace yourself to your slowest companion.
