The month of May, which marks the start of the hot summer season, has just passed. A hot summer’s day will keep most of you indoors, sheltered in air-conditioned classrooms and safe from the dripping sweat when climbing up the steep hills on campus. However, according to the old Korean proverb “iyeol chiyeol,” you should “beat the heat with heat.” How about climbing Nam Mountain this weekend? Mountain climbing is one of the greatest summer activities and is healthy for your tired body. Considering the geographical advantages of Dongguk University, hiking on Nam Mountain is the best summer sport. Come out and enjoy a pleasant and refreshing walk on Nam Mountain!

 

Recently, Nam Mountain was selected as the most popular tourist spot in Seoul by the Seoul Tourism Organization. During this hot summer season, hiking will sweat out the bad energy that has collected in our bodies – such as drinking loads of tasty soju during the campus festival.

There are several hiking trails that lead up to N Seoul Tower, located at the peak of Nam Mountain. Lately, many of these trails have been improved, attracting more hikers to the area. Here are some trails that you can follow to reach the top of the mountain and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.

 

	▲ The higher you go, the cooler it gets. Summer provides a great opportunity to explore trails at Nam Mountain.

 

Dulrye-gil – This hiking trail is the most highly recommended trail by many seasoned hikers. Originally built as a road, this popular trail was rebuilt in 2008. Many trees were planted alongside the trail, absorbing the intense heat and providing adequate shade. While hiking along this trail, you can feel refreshed as if you were taking a leisurely stroll in the countryside. Furthermore, you will be far away from the noise of honking horns and polluting car exhaust.

Wild Flower Trail – Along this hiking trail, beautiful summer flowers await you. Rated as the most romantic trail by lovers, you can smell the fresh scents of summer. You will likely see many couples along the way boasting their affections. However, if you haven’t found your perfect match yet, you will certainly not be alone. Many summer flowers are standing by to catch your eye with their showy colors.

Sowol-gil – This hiking trail leads to the Namsan botanical garden. It was reopened last December, and you can enjoy a variety of green plants, cute rabbits, and beautiful ponds.

If you are too tired to make the climb, go to Hangangjin Station on Subway Line 6 and take the elevator free of charge.

You might think that summer hiking is merely a common leisurely activity for middle-aged people or even a rather stinky activity. However, you should give it a try and you will probably be pleasantly surprised. The fresh mountain breeze will feel splendid as it blows against your sweaty body, and by the time you reach the top and take in the beautiful panoramic view of Seoul, you will realize that the hike up the mountain was well worth the effort. Don’t miss the feeling of summer on Nam Mountain!

Lee Jong-seok  bigbell414@dongguk.edu

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