Dobongsan Hike, Bukhansan National Park Seoul - The Journey up...

Here's the mountain we're about to climb (although we don't really know that at this point - just thought it looked lovely!) Thought we should get some idea of where we're going.




The first part of the hike took us along a little stream which is popular as a picnic spot.



We came across a few of these "wishing stone piles" where apparently you make a wish as you add a stone to the pile.



Yes, its still all fun and games as we stroll along taking in the beautiful sights and getting back to nature...

A quick check of the map to see we're on track...
No idea what it says but there were a few boulders with various engravings on them.



Things are getting a little steeper now...



At this point we decided that we must be pretty much at the top and that we should stop, have some lunch and watch the "real" rock climbers in action.




During lunch, Hugh went on an exploration and found a temple a little bit further above us which had some lovely views so we all took the stairs up to check it out. The vending machine was a bit of fun!





With food in our belly, we continued on, certain that we were on the ridge part of our journey and would soon be heading down again but unfortunately, this was not the case.



Another rest stop as we all caught our breath and enjoyed the scenery...









We were a little horrified to see the Korean's drinking Soju up here during their rest stop!

Meanwhile, back to the map as this is becoming a lot bigger than we had expected...



Guess its still uphill from here...





At least its all paying off and although we're tired, the views are starting to get really good now.






Finally, a last little climb up with the assistance of a rope and we were, at 708m, on top of the world (well it felt like that anyway)!








Obligatory Hugh Pose!