Sinseondae

Dobongsan’s highest summit is Jaunbong at 740 m, but its sheer granite faces make it accessible only to technical climbers. Right beside it stands Sinseondae at 726 m — the highest point reachable by any hiker, and the one that delivers the finest panoramic views. The name Sinseondae roughly translates as “the terrace where the immortals dwell,” and the view from the top makes that poetic name feel entirely earned.

The route from Dobongsan Station passes through one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Seoul area — a deep forested valley that narrows into exposed rocky ridgelines as you ascend, with the granite spires of the Dobongsan massif growing larger with every step.

Recommended Route

Sinseondae Summit Route (7 km round trip · ~3.5 hrs)

Dobongsan Station → Dobong Visitor Centre → Dobong Shelter → Madangbawi Rock → Sinseondae Summit (return same way)

Warning: The rocky ridge section just below the summit involves iron chains and ropes. This can be extremely slippery in wet or icy conditions — hiking boots are non-negotiable.

How to Get There

Subway Line 1 or Line 7 to Dobongsan Station (도봉산역), Exit 1 → 20 min walk to Dobong Visitor Centre → start of trail.

Bus Route 150 to Dobongsan Station (도봉산역).

What to Bring

• Hiking boots (mandatory — rocky ridge sections)
• At least 1.5 L of water (no shops on the upper trail)
• Snacks and energy food
• Trekking poles (for the descent)
• Sunscreen (exposed ridge sections)
• Gloves