After a ninety minute subway ride I had reached the base of Dobong Mountain. The first thing I noticed was that I looked out of place. This time it was not because I was white but because of my attire. Shorts and a t-shirt just weren't cutting it because everyone around me appeared to have just stepped (or should I say climbed?) out of a North Face catalogue. Walking further along the base of the mountain town you begin to understand just how deep the hiking culture in Korea is.
Dozens of stores lined along bustling streets were dedicated to selling anything you may need for the great outdoors. Whether you want the real thing or lower quality imitation Korean brands there was a store tucked away in the maze of merchandise that had your shade, style and size in stock. The streets were awash with all manner of hiking gloves, sticks, shoes, boots, backpacks, jackets, hats, and pants. The Korean passion for hiking has a religious fervor with every worthy mountain serving as a weekend pilgrimage site.
North Face |
Right next door...Red Face. I wonder what they sell? |
In their place was a cute little mascot who made frequent appearances along the hiking trail. These little bears messages were usually warning you of the fatally dangerous perils that awaited you on the mountain. Is it just me or do these warnings need to be a bit more foreboding and a bit less cuddly? Awwwww, look at the lighting and the blazing fire! Cuteeeeeee.
I like his hat. Staying classy in a Lighting storm. :) |
These kinds of signs will make kids run up and try to hug real-life bears. Although, if that was videotaped it would be a Youtube hit. |
Did I mention I met Ichiro's dad on the mountain? |
Soon she was leading me all about the mountain , showing her favorite mountainside haunts and pointing to the cliff faces that she had free climbed in her younger years. She was like a mountain goat continually putting me to shame as she led our descent at a pace that left me stumbling amongst the boulders to keep up.
This is Candy. She has Sherpa-like talents. |
Bukhansan National Park |
Seoul |
"Sweet. Good. Very Sweet." she assured me.
I live by few rules in life but I've always said that if a girl named Candy tells you to eat a wild flower on a Korean mountain, you do it, no questions asked. For the record, they were delicious and sweet.
As the sun set and I headed for home I felt very satisfied. The crowded subway rumbled on and I began to think more about hiking and how I have only had enjoyable experiences. There is a sense of accomplishment, freedom, community and adventure that I get from hiking that is unique to it alone. It doesn't matter if you prefer the official North Face gear and bring a feast and your entire wolf pack with you or if you are a one-man wolf pack with little more than some water and a granola bar; as long as you enjoy yourself, be safe, and pick up your trash there is no wrong way to go about it.
I have decided to create a Hiking Bucket List that I hope will take me to some of the most beautiful natural environments on six continents. Among my current list includes the Inca Trail in Peru, Yellow Mountain in China, Korea's Seoraksan National Park, and of course, a visit to see Mt. Doom in New Zealand. My list is a work in progress so if you have any suggestions or want to join me on an adventure I'd enjoy hearing from you!
Until next time!
Kevin
Let's do a hike up a little one called Mt. Rainier! Otis
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