Mongol Olle Trail
The Mongol Olle Trail is a long-distance hiking trail in Mongolia that was established in 2017. The trail consists of three routes, with a total length of approximately 42 km. Route 1 is located in the area of Bogdkhan Mountain, and Routes 2 and 3 are within Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.
It is named after Jeju Olle Trail and the Olle (올레), traditional walled paths to houses in Jeju Island, Korea.
History and background
The Mongol Olle Trail incorporates elements of the Jeju Olle Trail in Jeju Island, South Korea, alongside Mongolia landscapes, cultural sites, and nomadic traditions. It is marked using blue and yellow ribbons and "Ganse" pony-shaped symbols. This trail represents the second international expansion of the Jeju Olle Trail's "Sister Trail" network, following existing trails in Kyushu and Miyagi, Japan. Developed by the Jeju Olle Foundation in collaboration with the Ulaanbaatar Tourism Authority in Ulaanbaatar City, the trail references a historical connection of 800 years between Jeju Island and Mongolia. This cultural exchange project aims to support sustainable tourism and provide visitors with hiking experiences that reflect Mongolian culture.Cultural and natural features
The trail highlights aspects of Mongolian nomadic culture and the natural environment. It passes by traditional yurt camps, the round felt-lined dwellings used by nomadic herders in Mongolia. During the summer season, the grasslands along the trail exhibit a wide array of wildflowers. The trail is also associated with the annual Ulaanbaatar Walking Festival, which takes place in August.Routes and features
Route 1: Bogdkhan MountainTotal Distance: 14 km Total Time: 5 to 7 hours Difficulty: Medium
Starting in Khonkhor Village, approximately 25 km east of Ulaanbaatar, this route traverses the Bogdkhan Mountain Nature Reserve, an area noted for wildflowers, wide views, and cultural shrines. The trail includes initial uphill sections followed by downhill and level sections. Points of interest include ovoo shrines, coniferous forests, open plains, and Gunjvil Tourist Camp, a yurt camp located midway along the route. The route concludes at the Tuul Rail Junction, offering views of the surrounding grasslands and mountains.
Route 2: 'Burkhan Khaldun
Total Distance: 11 km Total Time: 3 to 5 hours Difficulty: Easy
Located about 42 km east of Ulaanbaatar, this route is situated within Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The trail begins at a yurt camp near the entrance, forming a loop that returns to the starting point. Notable features include the "wishing stone" rock formation, a river crossing over the Tull River constructed by Korean volunteers, and a sacred site known as "Black Flag Ovoo."
Route 3: Uguumurin Am '
Total Distance: 16.8 km Total Time: 6 to 8 hours Difficulty: Medium
This route in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park starts near the UB2 Hotel, passing through villages, camps, the Terelj River, plains with wildflowers, and forested areas. It continues through grasslands and forest paths towards a rock formation resembling a dinosaur or turtle. Key locations include Uguumurin Am, named after Ugumuur village, an area with a small nomadic population and limited infrastructure that has contributed to the preservation of its natural environment. Another point of interest is Khardag Khad, used by shepherds for observing livestock. The mountainous area displays varied ecological characteristics, with less dense vegetation on the south-facing slopes and denser forests on north-facing slopes.