This guide to visiting Seoraksan shows you what to see & do in the park, including the giant bronze Buddha, Sinheungsa Temple, Geumganggul Cave, and the Seoraksan Cable Car. There’s also full details about how to get to Seoraksan by car, public transport, or guided tour, and where to stay.

There’s something for all ages and abilities at Seoraksan National Park, with many great hiking trails available. This article will introduce six trails that range from beginner to advanced and I’ve included lots of practical hiking tips based on my own experience hiking Seoraksan to help you, too.

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Why Should You Hike Seoraksan National Park?

Seoraksan National Park has something for everyone; hiking and trekking trails for all levels, a cable car, Buddhist temples, cafes, restaurants, and charming sights. Seoraksan can be accessed by car, public transport, or day tour from Seoul, and is one of the most beautiful of Korea’s national parks.

Here are 5 reasons you’ll love visiting Seoraksan National Park:

Accessible to all: You don’t have to be a hiker to visit Seoraksan National Park and many people who visit probably don’t even hike at all. There are valley walks that you don’t need any special preparation for, as well as a cable car that will lift you up to a mountaintop temple with great views.

Autumn leaves: Seoraksan National Park is the first place to see stunning autumn foliage in Korea, which starts in Seoraksan from early October each year. Of course, any time is a good time to visit Seoraksan National Park. See snowy peaks in winter, spring flowers, and leafy sights in summer.

Traditional Korean culture: You’ll be amazed at the Buddhist temples and other traditional sights in Seoraksan National Park, including a giant bronze Buddha statue. This park is rich in history and is famous for the legend of Gwongeumseong, which was apparently built overnight by two brothers.

Breathtaking hiking routes: If you dream of hiking in Korea, there are several options for hiking in Seoraksan National Park, including 1-day, 2-day, and even 3-day hikes. You can sleep in a mountain lodge – perfect for those who want to wake up with a sunrise over the mountains and East Sea.

A park of natural beauty: There are over 2,000 animal species living in Seoraksan National Park, including the Korean goral, musk deer, otters, and maybe some bears! Seoraksan was designated a Biosphere Preservation District by UNESCO in 1982 due to it’s abundant plant and animal life.

There’s so much more to love about Seoraksan National Park, which will be covered in this article. After reading this article, you’ll see why it’s one of the most popular day trip destinations from Seoul, especially during October, and a must-add for your South Korea bucket list.

What Are You Looking For?

To help make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, I’ve broken this article into the following sections. Click the quick links below to jump straight there or keep reading through all parts.

What to see & do

Discover all of the best things to see and do at Seoraksan National Park, besides the hiking trails.

How to get there

Find out how to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul by bus, car, and organised tour.

Hiking trails

Learn about the 6 best hiking trails in Seoraksan National Park that start from the Sogongwon entrance.

What To Prepare

What to prepare to hike Seoraksan National Park, when’s the best time to visit, and more useful info.

Where To Eat

Restaurant and cafe options in Seoraksan National Park and recommendations for where to eat.

Where To Stay

Accommodation options in Seoraksan National Park and in nearby Sokcho City for those staying longer.

What To See And Do At Seoraksan National Park

Whether you’re a hiker, or just want to experience the natural wonders of a Korean national park, you won’t be disappointed with a day trip to Seoraksan National Park. There is plenty to see at Seoraksan National Park; from the peaks and hiking trails, to traditional buildings and natural wonders.

Here are 7 of the best things to see at Seoraksan National Park:

1: Ulsanbawi Peak

Ulsanbawi is one the most famous peaks in Seoraksan National Park. It’s known for its formation of rocks that begin at the foot of the mountain all the way to its peak at 900m. As you reach the top, its 6 peaks form a spectacular view as well as the surrounding mountains. There are other hiking trails at Seoraksan, but this is one of the best from the main park entrance.

2: Seoraksan Cable Car

If you are not a hiker, or need a rest day for those legs, then the cable car is a great option for you and offers the easiest views of Seoraksan from above. The ride only lasts a few minutes, but treats you to wide valley views and birds-eye views of the other attractions at Seoraksan.

3: Korean Buddhist Temples

Seoraksan National Park is the home of several temples including: Sinheungsa Temple, Gyejoam, Geumganggul Grotto, Baekdamsa and Oseam Temple. Each of these temples have their own unique features and history which makes each one worth visiting. The biggest is Sinheungsa Temple, located close to the park’s entrance, and is the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

4: Giant Bronze Buddha

One of the most famous sights of Seoraksan National Park is the giant bronze Buddha statue, which is the world’s largest seated bronze Buddha statue. It stands 14.6 metres high with forested slopes behind and around it. This is part of Sinheungsa Temple and there’s actually a small temple under the statue where you can see a statue of Bodhisattva Guan Yin.

5: Biryong Falls

There are several waterfalls in Seoraksan National Park, but Biryong Falls is arguably the most beautiful. The story behind Biryong Falls is that the crashing of water rushing over the rocky slopes and landing in the pool below is like the sound of dragons flying towards heaven. Bi-ryong (비룡) literally means ‘flying dragon’ in Korean. This waterfall looks best when frozen over during the cold Korean winter.

6: Gwongeumseong Fortress

A short, but breathtaking, journey up in the Seoraksan Cable Car will take you to Gwongeumseong Fortress. Although the fortress no longer stands, you will be taken away by the views of Seoraksan National Park from 670m above. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the East Sea and nearby city of Sokcho. Marvel at the views looking down, including steep drops!

7: Geumganggul Cave

The Geumganggul Cave is a small cave and holy site that contains a stone Buddha statue and was a former place of worship for Seoraksan’s Buddhist monks. This is a mountainside cave that sits 600 meters above sea level and can be reached by a steep climb up stone steps and over bridges in a couple of hours.

Not only can you enjoy seeing incredible views as you hike and walk around Seoraksan National Park, there are also lots of fun activities to do that are suitable for all ages and travellers. Explore and discover traditional Korean culture, dine on Korea’s favourite post-hiking dishes, and more.

Here are 5 great things you can do at Seoraksan National Park any time of the year:

1: Take In The Stunning Views

Although each trail reaches different heights, the views are always mesmerising. You can see all the way out to Sokcho and the East Sea from the peaks or cable car station. Yet, you do not need to reach such heights to enjoy the nature at Seoraksan National Park for the views are all around.

2: Trek Scenic Valley Paths

Whether you’re an expert hiker who wants a challenge, or a novice hiker who wants to enjoy a slow, steady walk, there is an option for you. There are trekking trails that wind through forests, beside streams and waterfalls, and past historic temples.The natural environment enhances all your senses as you smell, hear and, feel the world around you.

3: Enjoy Traditional Food

One of the best things to do after a hike in a Korean national park is to sit down to a big traditional Korean meal, such as haemul pajeon (seafood pancake), bibimbap (mixed rice), or dotori-muk (acorn jelly salad). Don’t forget to add locally made makgeolli (rice wine), which is made with sweetcorn in this part of Korea.

4: Buy Unique Souvenirs

Korea’s national parks are wonderful places to pick up unique souvenirs, and Seoraksan is no exception. As well as traditional hiking souvenirs, such as towels with maps of the park on them, there are also Buddhist souvenirs such as prayer beads and paintings. At Sinheungsa Temple you even can buy a roof tile and write a personal message on it, but sadly you can’t take this home with you.

5: Make New Memories

Whatever you do in Seoraksan National Park, you’re sure to create some unforgettable memories of your time there. Perhaps you added a wishing stone while walking a valley path, ate a delicious Korean meal under golden autumn foliage, or even made it to Ulsanbawi Peak after a long, yet rewarding trek. This will surely be a journey you’ll never forget.

However you spend your time at Seoraksan National Park, I’m sure you’ll enjoy all there is to see and do. My personal favourite is hiking the trails, especially to Ulsanbawi Peak, which is covered later in the Hiking Trails Section of this article. Next up is how to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park From Seoul

Seoraksan National Park is one of Korea’s largest national parks and spreads over nearly 400 square kilometres in Gangwon Province in north-eastern Korea. The park is so large that you can spend several days hiking from one side to the other, going from peak to peak and staying in lodges.

This guide won’t cover every entrance and hiking trail in Seoraksan, but will instead focus on the most popular and easy-to-reach entrance, which is the Sogongwon Park entrance (설악산소공원). As shown in the map below, the Sogongwon Park entrance is accessed from the park’s eastern border.

The Songwon Park entrance is the furthest entrance from Seoul but, thanks to it’s location close to Sokcho City, it’s one of the easiest entrances to get to by public transport. This section will cover how to get to Seoraksan by public transport, by car, and by tour, which can be the most practical way.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Bus

If you want to travel to Seoraksan National park by bus from Seoul, you will need to travel from one of two bus terminals in Seoul to Sokcho. From Sokcho, you should transfer to a local bus that goes to Seoraksan National Park. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting to Seoraksan by bus.

I’ve added Naver Map location pins for each of the locations in this guide. Naver Map is the recommended app for navigating in Korea and is more reliable than Google Maps in Korea.

Step 1: Seoul To Sokcho By Intercity Bus

Go to Dong-Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) or Seoul Express Bus Terminal (서울고속버스터미널) for buses to Sokcho Express Bus Terminal (속초고속버스터미널). Buses go frequently, but can be sold out in advance, especially on the weekend. You can book in advance online or at the terminal.

Step 2: Sokcho Bus Terminal To Seoraksan National Park

Once you have arrived in Sokcho, you need to transfer to a local (blue) bus to get to Seoraksan National Park. From the Sokcho Express Bus Terminal, you should cross the street from the entrance of the bus terminal and take bus #7 or #7-1 to the Sogongwon Bus Stop (설악산소공원)

The bus will go all the way to the entrance of the national park (pictured above) and will take around 35 minutes. The first bus from Sokcho Bus Terminal to Seoraksan leaves at 06:51 and the last bus from the park leaves at around 20:30. The buses run a couple of times each hour.

If you want to take a taxi, there is a taxi rank outside of the bus terminal. The taxi ride takes 20-25 minutes and costs 15,000 – 20,000 KRW depending on traffic. You can use Kakao Taxi to book taxis in Korea, but please note that it might be difficult to get a taxi back from the park.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Car

Travelling from Seoul to Seoraksan National Park by car is a convenient and fast option. If you have a car, or plan to rent a car in Korea, the drive to Seoraksan National Park takes just over 2 hours and is approximately 185km. Most of the journey is by Korean Expressway, which is charged in Korea.

If travelling by car, there are parking spaces at the entrance of Seoraksan national park. However, over the weekend they may be taken up quickly. In that case, you could park your car earlier, by the pensions and hotels, and either walk up to the park entrance or hop on the bus along the way.

If you’re driving to Seoraksan National Park, the address for the Seoraksan Sogongwon Car Park is shown below. I recommend using the Naver Map app to help navigate your journey.

Seoraksan Sogongwon Parking Lot, Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
강원 속초시 설악산로 1032

Tip: If you don’t have a car or don’t want to travel so far to experience a great Korean National Park, then I recommend hiking Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park instead. It’s located in Seoul and offers incredible views of the capital. Perfect for a day hike while in Seoul.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park By Organised Tour

The most convenient way to get to Seoraksan National Park from Seoul is with an organised tour. Most organised tours to Seoraksan depart from Seoul and the tours available range from simple transport to the park, to private tours with mountain hiking, or even a weekend with a night in Sokcho.

If you just want transportation to Seoraksan National Park and then back to Seoul, then a day trip to Seoraksan is the cheapest option. These trips usually include another stop along the way, such as Nami Island, Alpaca World, or the Garden of Morning Calm. Prices start at 95,000 KRW.

During autumn (September to November), there are more tours to Seoraksan National Park as many people want to view the autumn foliage. As this is peak season for travelling in Korea and for visiting Seoraksan National Park, I recommend booking these tours at least 1-2 months in advance.

Seoraksan National Park Tours

Below is a list of some of the organised tours to Seoraksan National Park that depart from Seoul. Several of these are only available during autumn, but some run throughout the year. There are many tour options from Klook, Get Your Guide, Trip Advisor, and Viator that go to Seoraksan.

Seoraksan National Park Entrance Fee

There is no entrance fee for Seoraksan National Park. There was a fee of 3,500 KRW to enter Seoraksan, which was actually a fee payable to Sinheungsa Temple. However, since May 2023, most Buddhist temples in Korea have agreed to waive all entrance fees, including Sinheungsa Temple.

If you travel to Seoraksan National Park, you shouldn’t have to pay an entrance fee to enter. However, there will be fees for parking, fees to ride the cable car, and fees for using other facilities, such as showers and camping sites. Click for a full list of Seoraksan National Park fees.

Seoraksan National Park Opening Hours

Seoraksan National Park opening hours are from 6:00am until 8:00pm every day. The Seoraksan Cable Car runs from 9:00am until 6:00pm. Buses to Seoraksan National Park from Sokcho begin at 6:51am and the last bus to leave Seoraksan towards Sokcho is around 8:30pm.

Best 1-Day Hiking Trails At Seoraksan National Park

There are many stunning 1-day trails to hike in Seoraksan National Park, including these 6 trails that start from the Sogongwon Park entrance. These hiking trails offer something for everyone with beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses available, each with unique views on offer.

Here are six 1-day hikes in Seoraksan National Park with difficulty, length, and time details:

Ulsanbawi Peak Trail

Difficulty: Advanced (3/4)
Length: 3.8km (1-way)
Time: 2:20 (1-way)

Biryong Falls Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 2.4km (1-way)
Time: 50 mins (1-way)

Cable Car Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4)
Length: 300m (1-way)
Time: 15 mins (1-way)

Biseondae Rock Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4)
Length: 3.0km (1-way)
Time: 1:20 (1-way)

Geumganggul Cave Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 3.6km (1-way)
Time: 1:40 (1-way)

Yangpok Shelter Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4)
Length: 6km (1-way)
Time: 3:50 (1-way)

The map below of the eastern part of Seoraksan National Park shows all of these hiking routes, the distances between each location, and the start point for each of these hikes – Sogongwon Park. The trails head out in three different directions and it’s possible to do several smaller trails in one day.

1: Ulsanbawi Peak Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Advanced (3/4) | Length: 3.8km (1-way) | Time: 2:20 (1-way)

The hike to Ulsanbawi Peak (876m high) is the perfect way to experience several attractions of Seoraksan National Park. This trail offers wonderfully unique views of both the valleys below and Ulsanbawi’s unusually shaped peak, which is formed of 6 rocks jutting upwards along a ridge.

The Ulsanbaw hiking trail begins in Sogongwon Park and is flat to begin with, leading you past the impressive Sinheungsa Temple before branching off right into the start of the actual hiking area. Follow the signposts for Ulsanbawi, which will have some cute Buddhist monk characters on them.

After Sinheungsa Temple, the route begins to get a bit steeper, but isn’t too difficult for this 2.1km stretch. You’ll follow a river for a while, passing a few bridges and walking over stone steps as you ascend towards Heundeulbawi and Gyejoam Temple. This is a beautiful walk under leafy trees.

Once you reach Gyejoam Temple and round Heundeulbawi boulder, the route gets serious, so take a break here if you feel tired. There’s a lookout point (pictured above) not far from Heundeulbawi which is a great place to look out over the park and at Ulsanbawi above and behind you.

The final 1km hiking path to Ulsanbawi from Gyejoam Temple is ‘advanced’. There are lots of stairs to the peak, which can be tiring for your legs, so go slowly and take breaks to enjoy the view and take pictures. The final ascent is tough but definitely worth it once you make it to the peak.

After what feels like a lifetime of gruelling steps up-and-up wooden staircases, you come out onto a viewing platform at the peak with breathtaking views all around, including the iconic Ulsanbawi Peak and Seoraksan’s highest peak, Daecheongbong. The peak definitely gives the best view in this area.

2: Biryong Falls Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 2.4km (1-way) | Time: 50 mins (1-way)

The hike to Biryong Falls gives you the chance to walk amongst trees and spot animals living in the wilderness, passing by a couple of waterfalls on the way. There’s also the chance to extend the hike to see the towering Towangseong Falls from an observation platform looking out over the valley.

The Biryong Falls hiking trail begins at Sogongwong Park and goes in the opposite direction of the Ulsanbawi trail. You won’t pass by Sinheungsa Temple on this course, but the route is relatively short so you can visit there afterwards. This course isn’t that difficult, but gets harder after Yukdam Falls.

To get to Biryong Falls, you should take the first left after the entrance and walk along a bridge. As you walk across the bridge you are able to see the cable car moving up and down the mountain. The next 2km is a gentle gravel path that leads through forested pathways until you reach Yukdam Falls.

After Yukdam Falls, the path changes to intermediate level due to the increased incline and rockier pathways for the 400m walk to Biryong Falls. This section is short and still not that difficult, so I definitely recommend pushing ahead for this final section as the views of Biryong Falls are lovely,

Optional Extension: If you want to see more waterfalls and valley views, continue the trek to Towangseong Falls Observatory after Biryong Falls. The journey to Towangseong is classed as advanced, meaning it’s steeper and involves more stairs. This section is short – only 400m.

The path is not too difficult and you can take breaks along the way and enjoy the views. When you walk back, you can see wide views of the valley in reverse as you wind along the narrow natural path. This trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature, but without the strain of hiking to a peak.

3: Cable Car & Gwongeumseong Fortress Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4) | Length: 300m (1-way) | Time: 15 mins (1-way)

One of the most popular attractions at Seoraksan National Park is the cable car. After taking the cable car up the cliff face, there’s a short 15 minute hike to Gwongeumseong Fortress. This is a great way to enjoy the sublime views of Seoraksan without hiking. There’s also a small temple at the top to see.

The cable car course doesn’t offer much for hikers, but it’s the best way for visitors to Seoraksan National Park to enjoy high views without getting sweaty. An adult ticket for the cable car is 15,000 KRW. You can buy a ticket from the Seoraksan Cable Car Center near the park entrance.

Once in the cable car, you can take in views of the valley as you ascend up the mountain. When you arrive to the top, there is a cafe area where you can grab drinks and snacks. There are also toilets. As you go outside, there’s a viewpoint on the side of the building to look out at the beautiful scenery.

The hiking part of this trail begins once you leave the cable car station. Follow the path to the right from the cable car centre up some staircases and over rocks. After 15 minutes, you’ll come to a rocky peak, which is where the Gwongeumseong Fortress was said to have been. Sadly it’s not there now.

From this peak you can see all the way to Sokcho and out into the blue East Sea beyond. It takes 15-20 minutes to explore and appreciate the views here, which also look over Seoraksan’s other peaks and offer a scary sheer drop down on one side (pictured above). Take care when looking around.

Before heading down, be sure to visit the temple in the opposite direction of the fortress from the cable car stop. It’s less busy but has some nice views, too. When you decide it’s time to head back, go back to the cable car stop. There’s no set return time, so queue up and wait for an available ride.

4: Biseondae Rock Trail

Difficulty: Beginner (1/4) | Length: 3.0km (1-way) | Time: 1:20 (1-way)

The Biseondae Rock trail is the perfect way to explore Seoraksan’s lower valleys without having to hike. This trail goes to Biseondae Rock, a mysterious giant rock that creates waterfalls when it rains. The tree-covered path to Biseondae Rock follows a lazy stream and has pleasant views all around.

The Biseondae Rock trail starts at the Sogongwon Park entrance, passing the giant bronze Buddha and Sinheungsa Temple and then crossing a small stone bridge. As you cross over the bridge you will find yourself walking through a forested pathway with a stream trickling down to the left of you.

The trail to Biseondae Rock follows one path, which is classed as beginner and runs for 2.3km. After 1.2km, the path begins to get a bit steeper, but it’s not too difficult and doesn’t require special gear. There’s a sign about Biseondae Rock at the end of the trail and you’ll see Biseondae Peak above.

The walk through the forest is an easy walk and pleasant. You will find shade under the trees and you can enjoy the sounds of nature all around you. The river will be on your left for most of the trail. If you’re visiting during winter, you might even be able to walk along the frozen river most of the way.

For visitors to Seoraksan who want to take in the valley views and incredible rocky peaks without hiking, this is a good place to turn around and head back to the entrance. You can complete the Biseondae Rock trail in a few hours and have time for a cable car ride or trek to see waterfalls.

If you want to hike further, the large bridge and information office at the end of the Biseondae Rock trail marks the start of the ascent towards the other hiking trails in Seoraksan. These include the Geumganggul Cave trail and the Yangpok Shelter trail, both of which will be covered next.

5: Geumganggul Cave Hiking Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 3.6km (1-way) | Time: 1:40 (1-way)

The Geumganggul Cave trail is an extension of the Biseondae Rock trail that goes up into a revered grotto that was once a place of worship for local Buddhists. This is a steep but short ascent and offers fascinating views inside the cave, as well as wide vistas of Seoraksan from the mouth of the cave.

The Geumganggul Cave trail begins at Sogongwon Park and follows the aforementioned Biseondae Rock trail along the valley floor. Once you reach Biseondae Rock, the trail moves from beginner to expert level due to the steep steps and stairways leading up to the Geumganggul Cave (grotto).

The cave’s entrance is roughly 600 metres from Biseondae Rock, meaning it’s only a short addition to the Biseondae Rock trail, but certainly a tough one that you should be prepared for. As you can see from the picture below, the path ascends quickly with a 35.2% incline. Take it slowly.

Despite the steepness and difficulty level of the hike between Biseondae Rock and Geumganggul Cave, it’s still possible for most people to complete it, as long as you take it slowly and cautiously. The steps are no different from walking inside a building, except that they come with a better view.

Once you reach the cave entrance, passing over some bridges along the way, you’ll learn why people push on up those steps and why monks and poets came here to worship, meditate, and contemplate. Spend as long as you need here, taking it in and resting before the tough descent down again.

Not ready to go back down and want to keep hiking further? After the Geumganggul Cave, the trail continues to be difficult, but offers a rewarding journey for hikers. If you plan to spend a weekend in Seoraksan National Park, book a night at the Hoeh-un-gak Shelter and hike more the next day,

6: Yangpok Shelter Trail

Difficulty: Intermediate (2/4) | Length: 6km (1-way) | Time: 3:50 (1-way)

The Yangpok Shelter trail is an extension of the Biseondae Rock trail and provides a long and rewarding hike, slowly ascending up to the shelter and passing into Seoraksan’s lofty heights. The shelter is located near several waterfalls, including the Yang Falls and the picturesque Oryeon Falls.

The Yangpok Shelter trail begins at Sogongwon Park and follows the aforementioned Biseondae Rock trail along the valley floor. Once you reach Biseondae Rock, follow the trail left towards Yangpok Shelter. The course moves from beginner to intermediate, ascending slowly during this 3.5km section.

The route is long and steady, passing through forests, over rocky trails and wooden staircases most of the way, as well as a few bridges. About an hour into this section, you will see the Gwimyeonam Rock sticking out of the trees like giants had piled up smooth stone slabs for safe keeping.

As you hike along the trail to Yangpok Shelter, the beauty of the Cheonbuldong Valley unfolds around you with an abundance of nature on show. Near the shelter, you’ll find Oryeon Falls, which is a short waterfall dropping into a round pond below, as well as the Yang Falls 30m from the shelter.

The trail to Yangpok Shelter is known as the Cheonbuldonggyegok Course (shown above) because it goes through the Cheonbuldong Valley. This is arguably one of the prettiest courses to take in Seoraksan if you want to be surrounded by nature with bare-faced rocks staring down from above.

The Yangpok Shelter is available for hikers who want to spend the night in Seoraksan’s peaks and continue hiking on one of the available 2 or 3-day courses, including the hike to Seoraksan’s highest point – Daecheongbong Peak (1,708m). Otherwise, turn around and head back to the park entrance.

What To Prepare To Hike In Seoraksan National Park

To be fully prepared for hiking Seoraksan National Park there are a few things you should get ready before you head out on your adventure. Some of these are essential considerations to be aware of before you hike, others are nice extras to think about and can improve your hiking experience.

Choose which trail to hike: Hopefully you’ve already decided which path you want to hike to the peak from the previous sections in this article. Consider the time and difficulty of your chosen course.

Work out how to get to Seoraksan: See the ‘How to get to Seoraksan’ section above. I also recommend downloading the Naver Map app as it’s essential for getting around Korea.

Decide when you will go hiking: There’s something to see in Seoraksan in every season. Visit on a weekday for less crowded hiking trails and avoid hiking in the rain if possible.

Consider what to wear when hiking Seoraksan: From hiking clothes to hiking accessories, it’s good to prepare in advance and make sure you have the right gear any time you hike in Korea.

Pack appropriately for your Seoraksan hike: As well as the right clothes, you’ll need a some hiking equipment, food, snacks, and other supplies to keep you safe and comfortable all day.

Think about what to do when you finish hiking: This final consideration could be the one that leaves a lasting memory and caps off a great day out in Seoraksan National Park.

These last 4 points will be covered in the next sections of this guide. This is really useful info that I’ve gathered through years of hiking, as well as from the odd mistake and accident. Take a note of these sections to make sure you have all you need to enjoy your hike in Seoraksan National Park.

One last thing, when you hike in Korea…

Don’t Forget Your Passport

You don’t need a passport to hike in Korea’s national parks. However, if you want a fun souvenir, or you plan to hike more of Korea’s national parks, why not pick up a National Park Hiking Passport like the one pictured. You can find them at the entrance to national parks in Korea.

This passport-style book allows you to collect stamps from all of the national parks across Korea, including Hallasan National Park on Jeju Island. If you live in Korea, this is a fun challenge to encourage you to hike all of Korea’s best national parks and see more of the country.

Best Time To Visit Seoraksan National Park

The best time to visit Seoraksan National Park is late September and early October when fall foliage begins to appear and spreads across the park. This is also one of the busiest times to visit Seoraksan, with weekends being extremely busy. Therefore, visit during the week if you can.

When to visit Seoraksan depends on what you want to see and do. The best times to go hiking in Seoraksan are from September to May when the weather is cooler and there’s less rain. The best time to visit Seoraksan for sightseeing & trekking are spring and autumn when there’s more nature.

In the winter the peaks are often covered with a layer of snow, which adds another dimension to the sharp mountain edges. As spring comes, you can see the trees come back to life and enjoy a hike with fresh spring air. During summer the mountains are covered in seas of green trees & bushes.

Finally, the most popular season is autumn. Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its montage of colour as the trees begin to shake off their leaves for winter. In every season you will be in awe of the views of the rolling mountains surrounding you and the long views out to the east coast of Korea.

Autumn Foliage Tours To Seoraksan National Park

If you want to visit Seoraksan during autumn, definitely book ahead for transportation, tours, and accommodation. October in Korea is peak season not only for international tourists visiting Korea, but also for local tourists. There are several public holidays at this time of year, including Chuseok.

The most convenient way to see autumn foliage in Seoraksan National Park is to either stay in Sokcho and travel on a bus from there, or book an organised tour from Seoul. These tours will bring you to Seoraksan without the hassle of using public transport and provide you with information, too.

What To Wear Hiking In Seoraksan National Park

Once you’ve figured out what time of year you want to hike Seoraksan National Park, you should pack the right clothes for the season. Of course, the weather in Korea can change day to day, so also bring appropriate clothes for the weather that day (i.e. a raincoat if it’s raining).

Here’s a rough guide to what to pack for hiking in each season:

Spring & Autumn: These seasons are warm with a few showers, but not heavy rain or snow. Dress lightly as you’ll be hot going up the mountain, but also pack a light jacket for the peak as it can get windy and cold up there. You’ll also be cooler going down after reaching the summit.

• Top: Light top. Jacket you can store in your bag.
• Legs: Light trousers to protect from insects.
• Feet: Regular hiking socks.

Summer: Summer in Korea is hot and humid and the wettest season. I recommend light clothes for hiking in hot weather. Cover your arms and legs to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the chance of sunburn. Pack a poncho (sold in the parks during summer) or light waterproof jacket in case of rain.

• Top: Long-sleeved thin hiking or cotton t-shirt. Rain jacket or rain poncho if raining
• Legs: Long shorts or trousers to protect against mosquitoes.
• Feet: Ankle socks.

Winter: The winter months in Korea can be very cold, well below freezing, so wrap up warm. However, you’ll heat up as you hike, so also wear clothes that you can shove in a bag or wrap around your waist. Insulated socks and inner wear are recommended if the weather is far below zero.

• Top: Layers that you can remove easily. Jacket with wind protection, thin fleece.
• Legs: Thick or lined trousers (with leggings if really cold).
• Feet: Woollen hiking socks.

Headwear: A cap or a wool hat can be important on a hike to protect yourself from the sun or to keep you warm as the temperature drops. This applies to all seasons as you can be get sunburn in any season, even winter. Bring a cap for summer and wool hat for winter to help keep heat in.

Hiking boots: A decent pair of hiking boots is the best investment you can make when hiking. I use the same pair most of the year round (except summer) and they keep my feet and ankles safe and protected from injury. They also help me in bad weather conditions as they provide sturdy grip.

No matter the season you should wear hiking boots if you plan to take one of the intermediate or advanced hiking courses in Seoraksan. They provide better grip and safety when you need it. For the beginner courses and the cable car route, a good pair of trainers / sneakers will be fine.

• Recommended hiking boots for women.
• Recommended hiking boots for men.

For more info about what to wear, pack, and prepare for hiking in Seoraksan or other Korean national parks, check out this guide to hiking in Korea. There are more than 20 hiking tips that will make sure you have a great day out in the mountains (weather not guaranteed!).

The Benefit Of Boots

Bring a pair of comfortable hiking or trekking boots with you when you visit Korea. They can be useful for more than just hiking. Travellers end up walking a lot – around palaces, in hanok villages, outside temples, and along countless streets. Hiking / trekking boots will keep your feet cosy while you explore, too.

What To Pack To Hike Seoraksan National Park

What should you pack to hike Seoraksan National Park? As mentioned, for your Seoraksan hike it is important to take extra layers and clothes that will keep you warm. Depending on the season you will add different items to your bag, but extra layers are something you should always consider.

Food And Drinks For Hiking In Seoraksan

If you plan to hike one of the longer courses in Seoraksan, such as the Ulsanbawi Peak trail, the Yangpok Shelter trail, or the Geumganggul Cave trail, you should pack some snacks, water or other liquids, and possibly a lunch in your bag. You can buy snacks and drinks at shops in the park.

Water, or your choice of hydrating drink, is a must when hiking. Depending on the season, the amount you need to drink will differ. In winter a 500ml bottle may be enough, but if you hike in summer, you’ll need at least 1 litre or more as you’ll lose a lot of liquids through sweat in the high heat and humidity.

If you plan on sticking to the shorter courses or you’re taking the cable car, you don’t need to worry about bringing extra supplies as there are shops, cafes, and restaurants available in the main area around the cable car, as well as at the cable car station. Just bring some water with you.

My Hiking Supplies

Here’s what I usually pack in my bag when I’m hiking for four hours or more:

• fruit (apple or banana)
• vegetables (tomatoes, sliced peppers, sliced carrots)
• trail bars / energy bars
• small bag of nuts
• gimbap (Korean-style sushi roll)
• 1l of water
• 1 bottle of Powerade

Hiking Equipment For Hiking In Seoraksan National Park

Even though you’ll want a light backpack when you hike Seoraksan, there are some essential items that you should bring whenever you hike, such as hiking poles, tissues, a sweat towel, and gloves. These items can change depending on the season, but most are essential for the longer trails.

Backpack or daypack: You’ll need something light to carry your snacks, water, and equipment with you when you hike. For a day hike, you shouldn’t need more than a 25 litre backpack.

Reusable water bottles: If you want to reduce your environmental impact, bring some collapsible or reusable water bottles with you and fill them at the water fountains at the park’s entrance.

Hiking poles: These extendable hiking sticks are great for getting over rocky paths and for improving balance while reducing leg pressure when descending the mountain. Not essential for everyone.

Sun protection: Being outside means being exposed to sunshine, especially at the peaks and at the Gwongeumseong Fortress. Be sure to apply suncream and wear sunglasses to stay safe.

Sweat towel or handkerchief: Whatever season you hike Seoraksan in, you’re probably going to sweat a bit (or lots). A sweat towel or handkerchief is also useful for drying your hands.

Insect repellant: From spring to autumn, you will find mosquitoes in the mountains. Be sure to spray yourself when visiting Seoraksan. Summer is the worst period for insects while winter has none.

Hygiene supplies: This includes tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitiser. Tissues and wet wipes have many uses, including cleaning your hands before you eat or if you need to use a mountain toilet.

First aid kit: This isn’t necessary, but can be useful if you’re concerned about cuts and scrapes while you hike. I usually have a few plasters in my bag in case I cut myself on a thorny bush.

Cash & Debit card: Bring some cash to use at the food stalls or vending machines at the national park entrances and other locations. Use a WOWPASS to pay for meals, souvenirs, and shop items.

If you only plan to explore Seoraksan National Park and stick to the shorter or beginner courses, you won’t need hiking poles, hiking boots, or proper hiking gear. However, I would still recommend the other items, especially if you’re travelling in summer when it’s hot and there are many insects around.

What To Bring For Hiking Seoraksan In Winter

The following items are hiking equipment you might need if you plan to hike in winter when snow and ice can build up on the hiking paths of Seoraksan. Even the river route to Biseondae Rock can be icy during winter and hiking sticks can help with balance. For hikes into the mountains, bring these:

Crampons / cleats: Even if the start point doesn’t have ice or snow, there certainly can be some at the peak. Pack some cleats to slip on when it gets icy to stop you from slipping and injuring yourself.

Windproof hiking gloves: Temperatures in winter get below zero and as you hike to Ulsanbawi Peak, the temperature will drop even more. Windproof, waterproof gloves will keep your hands safe.

Sunglasses: Winter in Korea is the sunniest time of the year and the sun can be blinding as it reflects off the snow or ice. Definitely bring shades if you plan to hike Seoraksan in winter.

Heat packs: Hand and foot warmers or heat packs to stick on your clothes are both really useful for hiking in Korea during winter. I always pack hand warmers for my pockets to keep my hands alive.

You can buy most of these items at the shops in Seoraksan National Park in case you don’t have them with you when you visit Korea. These will be fairly basic and if you plan to hike during winter more than once, it’s definitely worth investing in decent winter hiking gear for Korea or elsewhere.

Where To Eat At Seoraksan National Park

If you come to Seoraksan National Park for a stroll through the woods, a trip up to Gwongeumseong Fortress in the cable car, or a hike up one of its numerous peaks, then you will want to take a rest for some delicious Korean food or a coffee and cake. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for you.

Not far from the Sogongwon Park entrance of the national park is a rest area. Here there are several restaurants for you to choose from with most selling Korean food. I recommend 비선대 만난의 광장; here you can nibble on some delicious haemul pajeon and try corn makgeolli made in Sokcho.

Here are 3 restaurants to try in Seoraksan National Park:

비선대 만남의 광장

Rating: 4.07
Menu: Korean
Location

다래정식당

Rating: 4.09
Menu: Korean
Location

Queen Restaurant

Rating: 4.38
Menu: Western
Location

If you want to sample some traditional Korean dishes, a restaurant at Seoraksan National Park is a great place to sample haemul pajeon, bibimbap, gamjajeon, and more. There’s also Western food available at The Kensington Hotel, which is a large hotel in Seoraksan National Park.

Haemul Pajeon

Korean squid and green onion fried pancake.

Bibimbap

Mixed vegetables, rice, fried egg and spicy sauce.

Gamja-Jeon

Potato fried pancake with spicy soy dipping sauce.

Feel like a coffee with gorgeous views of Seoraksan’s rocky peaks and lush forests? There are several cafes in Seoraksan, including one close to Sinheungsa Temple. These cafes not only provide a coffee-fix, they also serve sweet Korean treats, including bingsu, a refreshing shaved ice dessert.

Dahyang Cafe

Rating: 4.11
Location

Seolhyang Cafe

Rating: 4.38
Location

Cafe Banghachak

Rating: 4.16
Location

Where To Stay To Visit Seoraksan National Park

While there are plenty of tour options to Seoraksan from Seoul that will allow you to experience the park in a single day, you might want to spend more time in the park and in nearby Sokcho. There are several options for places to stay to access Seoraksan National Park without a long journey.

Here are the accommodation options near Seoraksan Sogongown Park entrance:

The Kensington Hotel

4-star | 8.1 Rating

The Kensington Hotel is the best option for travellers who want to experience a night staying in a Korean national park with luxury accommodation, two restaurants, a bar, and a cafe. Upgraded suites include whirlpool tubs and saunas. Children under 11 stay for free with a parent. The perfect place to watch the sun rise in the park.

Check Prices

Sokcho White House

2-star | 8.0 Rating

Conveniently situated close to Seoraksan National Park, this guesthouse provides budget accommodation for single travellers, couples, and families with Korean and Western-style bedding. Recommended for those looking for a cheap hotel and have their own car.

Check Prices

Seorakdong Campsite

2-star | 9.0 Rating

Experience a night under the stars at the Seorakdong Campsite, which has 207 auto campsite units, 8 caravan campsite units and 16 caravan units. The campsite comes with showers, sinks, toilets, electricity, and tables. Campsite fees from 15,000 KRW. Caravan fees from 60,000 KRW.

Map Location

If you prefer to have the conveniences of a city, then Sokcho is the best place to stay to access Seoraksan National Park. When I visit Seoraksan for a weekend, this is where I prefer to stay as there are lovely sights to see in Sokcho, including a traditional market with great Korean street food.

Here are accommodation options in Sokcho on the bus route to Seoraksan National Park:

Lotte Resort Sokcho

4-star | 8.9 Rating

The Lotte Resort Sokcho is one of the best places to stay in Sokcho for families and travellers looking for high-quality accommodation with on-site dining options and incredible views. Built in 2017, this spacious hotel sits on a cliff edge and offers views of the East Sea, Sokcho Beach, and Seoraksan National Park.

Check Prices

Urbanstay Sokcho Haebyeon

4-star | 8.8 Rating

This is a great hotel for those looking for value for money and convenience. It’s situated close to the bus terminal, Sokcho Beach, and the beautiful Cheongchoho Lake. Perfect for hiking by day and exploring the city at night.

Check Prices

SeaCruise Hotel

4-star | 8.5 Rating

The SeaCruise Hotel offers lovely views over Cheongchoho Lake and Seoraksan’s soaring peaks. Located in the old downtown area of Sokcho, this hotel provides easy access to Sokcho Jung-ang Traditional Market – a lively place that has lots of great street food options available.

Check Prices

Hotel The Blue Terra

4-star | 8.3 Rating

Hotel The Blue Terra is one of Sokcho’s largest hotels and is conveniently located a few minutes from the bus terminal and Sokcho Beach. Rooms are spacious and modern and provide sunrise views over the East Sea in the morning. Perfect for all types of travellers.

Check Prices

If you plan to hike for more than one day in Seoraksan and want to stay over in the mountains, you can book a shelter from the Korean National Park Service website. Shelters are basic, providing just a place to sleep and a few refreshments. You’ll need your own sleeping bag and pillow.

Hiking Seoraksan National Park FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about how to hike Seoraksan National Park, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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As the highest mountain in Seoul, hiking to Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park can be challenging, but is most definitely a rewarding experience. Getting out Seoul’s busy streets and hitting the hiking trails is a refreshing way to exercise and see more of Korea’s mountains and nature.

This guide will help you prepare to hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak. Find out how to get there, what to wear, what to prepare, and the best Korean restaurants nearby. Discover the best hiking routes to Baegundae Peak from different sides of Bukhansan National Park that will suit your hiking ability.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Should You Hike Bukhansan’s Baegundae Peak?

Why should you hike Bukhansan’s Baegundae Peak? Because it’s one of the most accessible peaks close to Seoul that will offer you incredible views over the city and of Korea’s gorgeous nature. There are various hiking trails up to Baegundae Peak that each offer unique sights and challenges.

No matter the season, Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park is always a great option for a day hike in Seoul. On your hike to the peak, you’ll be surrounded by fresh green trees in spring and summer, while in autumn you can see beautiful gold, amber, and fiery red fall foliage.

Snowy and icy hikes in winter make the mountain a bigger challenge but nonetheless beautiful. When you complete the hike up Bukhansan, you will be amazed by the view and size of Seoul. Despite Bukhansan being in the north part of Seoul, you can spot Lotte Tower and beyond on a clear day.

The images below should give you an idea of what to expect when you hike to Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park. From the park entrance to the peak, there are lots of lovely sights to take in whichever route you decide to take. Bukhansan is definitely the best place to hike in Seoul.

Besides the joy of hiking in Korea, which is always good fun, here are five more reasons you should hike to Bukhansan’s Baeugundae Peak when you visit Seoul.

Views of Seoul from the peak: Baegundae Peak is 280m higher than the Lotte World Tower and offers the best views of Korea’s capital. You can really see just how far and wide Seoul stretches.

Accessible for all levels: Whether you’re an expert hiker who wants a challenge, or a novice hiker who wants to enjoy a slow, steady walk to the top, the Baegundae Peak hike has an option for you.

Beautiful temple scenes: Bukhansan National Park is blessed with several beautiful temples, including the 1,100 year old Doseonsa Temple which is the start point for one of the hiking trails.

Stunning nature throughout the national park: Expect to see countless trees, bushes, plants, rocks, streams, and animals as you hike to Baegundae Peak, which offer incredible views year round.

Interesting historic sights to learn about: as well as ancient Buddhist temples, you can also see historic sights on the hike to Baegundae Peak, including parts of Bukhansanseong Fortress.

Non-Hikers: Walk The Bukhansan Dulle-gil Trekking Route

Don’t feel up to the challenge of hiking to Baegundae Peak but still want to explore the nature and history of Bukhansan National Park? Then take the Bukhansan dulle-gil (trekking path) around the outside of the national park instead. There are multiple paths to take around the park.

As the Korea National Park Service states, the Bukhansan dulle-gil is “a path where history, culture, nature, and humans come together in harmony.” The dulle-gil courses are signposted and will guide you around the foothills of the mountains. Unfortunately, these are mostly in Korean.

Need Help Doing A Hike To Baegundae Peak?

I hope that this article will provide you with lots of information to help you hike Bukhansan’s Baegundae Peak from a range of starting locations. However, if you still feel like you need help to hike to Baegundae Peak, then why not book a tour to the peak and take all the hassle out of hiking.

This private hiking tour to Baegundae Peak offers you the chance to create a hiking route to the top based on your own fitness levels and experience. A guide will show you the way to go, tell you about the park, and collect you and drop you off at your hotel on the day of the hike.

I believe that the Baegundae Peak hike is certainly possible for most people of reasonable fitness and there are multiple courses to the peak that offer different levels of challenge, which will be covered in the next section of this guide. Keep reading to discover the best hiking trail to Baegundae Peak.

The Best Hiking Trails To Baegundae Peak In Bukhansan

Before you start your hike to Baegundae Peak, it is necessary to decide which route you will take to the top. There are several starting points that lead to the peak and in this article I will cover three of the best trails to Baegundae Peak and back, including one that crosses across the whole park.

These trails all meet near a fortress gate before the most difficult section of the hike – getting up the rocky section to reach Baegundae Peak. If you are using public transport, it is possible to go up one way and down the other. However, this is not possible if you are travelling by car for obvious reasons.

The three hiking trails for Baegundae Peak that this article will introduce you to are:

Baegundae Peak from Doseonsa Temple: This is the shortest and easiest route to get to the peak and starts on the eastern side of the park. Good for those with limited time to hike.

Baegundae Peak from Bukhansan Fortress Entrance: This trail splits halfway and allows you to choose a longer, easier route, or a shorter, more difficult route to reach the peak. Both are stunning.

Bukhansan Fortress To Baegundae 2 Ranger Station via Baegundae Peak: This is a hiking trail to Baegundae Peak that starts at one end of the park and finishes at the other side of the park.

These trails all go to Baegundae Peak but differ in length, time, and effort. There are plenty of other hiking routes in the national park, but I can’t cover them all in this article. If you want to hike other parts of Bukhansan, you can explore more paths from the official National Parks of Korea website.

Hike To Baegundae Peak from Doseonsa Temple

Length: 2.6km (one way)

Time: 2.5 -3 hours (return)

Difficulty: 3/5

Starting Point: 삼각산 도선사

This is the shortest hike to Baegundae Peak and can be completed in under 3 hours. The Doseonsa Temple route begins at the east side of the mountain at the 1,100 year old Doseonsa Temple, which I recommend exploring before you hike as it’s an important treasure of Bukhansan National Park.

At the entrance to the hiking trail there is a public toilet and some vending machines. I wouldn’t recommend waiting to buy hiking supplies from the vending machines, buy them before you set off. Stop at a convenience store before travelling to buy some gimbap, water, and other snacks.

To help you work out how long and far the hike from Doseonsa Temple to Baegundae Peak is, check out the annotated map below, taken from the hiking trail sign in Bukhansan National Park. Fortunately, all hiking signs and maps are in both English and Korean in Bukhansan National Park.

About The Hiking Trail From Doseonsa Temple

The trail begins winding up through the forest, offering views of Seoul behind you through the trees and Bukhansan’s other peaks in front. You’ll walk for 1.1km towards 용암문 (Yong-am-mun), which is an old fortress gate that’s part of Bukhansan Fortress. This section is rated as ‘intermediate’.

Take the 1.2km path to the right of Yong-am-mun gate and head towards the 백운봉암문 (Bae-gun-bong-am-mun), another fortress gate where the hiking paths to Baegundae Peak meet before the final ascent. This section is part of the ‘easy’ route from Bukhansan Fortress Entrance, but is ‘advanced’.

As you hike along this section, you’ll pass over Yong-am-bong (Yongam Peak), which is a bare, rocky peak with good views over the city to the south. You’ll walk around the sides of other peaks on your way and there are sections where you’ll need to scramble up and over large rocks in the path.

As the routes join together you should be prepared for the most difficult part of the hike. The last 300 metre section of the hike up to Baegundae Peak will require you to pull yourself up either using the metal railing or rope provided. This final section is steep and should be approached with caution.

I’ll discuss more about the final section of the Baegundae Peak hike after introducing the other trails.

How To Get To The Doseonsa Temple Start Point

The starting point of this trail is accessible by public transport and by car. The nearest public transport stop is Bukhansan Ui subway station, which is actually quite far from Doseonsa Temple, but the walk is very pleasant and passes some traditional restaurants and shops for food before you hike.

The road that leads to Doseonsa Temple is a long, gradual incline and takes an hour or so to walk along from Bukhansan Ui station. Keep following the road straight and at the end there should be signposts to the temple. For an alternative start point, head to nearby Baegundae 2 Ranger Station.

By Public Transport: Take a bus (Dobong 02, Dobong 05, 101,109,151) or subway (Ui-sinseol line) to Bukhansan Ui subway station (북한산우이). From this point you can either walk, which takes 1 hour along the road, or you can take a taxi (15 minutes) to the starting point.

By Car: It is possible to drive to the starting point and park your car by the entrance. However, throughout the day the car park gets very crowded, and it may be difficult to find a spot. Use the address below in Korean to find your way by map (I recommend Naver Maps).

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 강북구 삼양로173길 504

Hike To Baegundae Peak From Bukhansan Fortress Entrance

Starting Point: 북한산성입구

There are two main hiking paths to Baegundae Peak from the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance, one is shorter but more difficult while the other is longer but easier. Both arrive at the same fortress gate as the Doseonsa Temple path before the final ascent to Baegundae Peak.

These paths both follow the same route from the national park entrance, but split after 1.2km when you arrive at Borisa Temple (marked as ‘You Are Here’ in the image above). There are multiple paths to Borisa Temple from the entrance, I’ve highlighted my favourite one – the orange path.

The path from Bukhansan Fortress Entrance to Borisa Temple is very pleasant, passing along rivers, past temples, and along wooden walking paths and stony lanes. The path is marked as ‘intermediate’, but isn’t difficult and should only take about 30-40 minutes.

The next two sections will describe the different paths from Borisa Temple – the Baegundae Peak Easy Course and the Baegundae Peak Difficult Course. At Borisa Temple, you can see a signpost like the one above that will show you the two different courses. Follow these to Baegundae Peak.

When you’re at Borisa Temple, I highly recommend using the toilet facilities as these are the last toilets if you’re taking the difficult route to the peak. Like many toilets in Korea’s national parks, these are clean and have good facilities. Toilets higher up in national parks aren’t always as good, however.

Baegundae Peak Easy Course From Bukhansan Fortress Entrance

Length: 6.9km (one way)

Time: 6 hours (return)

Difficulty: 3/5

After you arrive at Borisa Temple, which can also be reached by heading for the Bukhandong History Museum (북한동역사권), start the Baegundae Peak Easy Course. This path continues to head east from the course’s start point, heading past several temples in the foothills before you start the ascent.

The map below shows the various temples you’ll pass in the first few sections of this course. This route follows the stream for some time, providing a more relaxing hike up the mountain and great views. This route is a longer hike but is much easier than the other trail from this entrance point.

Although there will be times where the route is harder, the trail slowly winds up the mountain and overall, it is the easiest route up. The first few sections are broken down in to 0.5km, 1.0km, and 0.4km trails with each section ending at a temple, with the last one being Taegosa Temple.

From this point the path starts to ascend more steadily and the next 0.9km from Taegosa Temple to the Bukhansan Shelter (북한산대피소) passes along forested fortress walls with rocky steps upwards. The shelter is a good place to stop for a bite to eat and rest before the more challenging sections.

After the Bukhansan Shelter, it’s a short trek to Yong-am-mun (용암문) fortress gate and then 1.2km towards 백운봉암문 (Bae-gun-bong-am-mun), another fortress gate where all the hiking paths to Baegundae Peak meet before the final ascent. This section is advanced as it’s rocky underfoot.

As you hike along this section, you’ll pass over Yong-am-bong (Yongam Peak), which is a bare, rocky peak with good views over the city to the south. You’ll walk around the sides of other peaks on your way and there are sections where you’ll need to scramble up and over large rocks in the path.

The Bae-gun-bong-am-mun (백운봉암문) fortress gate (pictured above) is where the easy and difficult courses meet before the final ascent to Baegundae Peak, which I’ll describe in a later section. I recommend resting here as the final ascent to the peak is tough.

Baegundae Peak Difficult Course From Bukhansan Fortress Entrance

Length: 4.8km (one way)

Time: 4-5 hours (return)

Difficulty: 4/5

If you are up for a challenge and wish to take the shortest route up, then the Baegundae Peak Difficult Course is for you. As you cross the bridge you need to go along the path to the left and follow the signs for the Baegundae Peak Difficult Course (백운대). Be prepared for a short, steep hike to the top.

This route involves long periods of steep incline that will make those leg muscles work hard. However, it is a faster route up to the top. As you can see from the map below, there are two sections that lead up to the Bae-gun-bong-am-mun (백운봉암문) fortress gate before the final ascent.

The first 0.6km of this trail goes through the forest and the path is made up of rocky stones (pictured below) or dirt tracks that don’t ruin the beautiful nature of the park. This section is ‘intermediate’ and not too long, but the rocks may be trouble for some who have problems on difficult terrain.

As the forests on this route are quite thick, especially from late-spring to autumn, the views on the way to Baegundae Peak are sometimes blocked by the trees. Whenever there is a break in the foliage, however, there are great views. These viewing points are a good place to take a scenic break.

Once you get onto the second section of the Baegundae Peak Difficult Course, the paths start to get steeper and more difficult. You will find more wooden stairways (pictured below) and paths where you have to climb over (or around) large rocks. This section is ‘only’ 1km long, but is ‘advanced’.

As you hike towards Baegundae Peak, you might notice some wild animals. Bukhansan National Park is home to various wildlife, including deer, wild boars, squirrels, snakes, and other creatures. Watch out for snakes if you hike in autumn as they hide under the leaves and may surprise hikers.

You will also see a few wild (domestic) cats that have made Bukhansan their home, like the black and white cat in the picture below. These cats may get defensive if they have kittens, but generally don’t cause any problems. You can even see them at the peak, looking for donations from dining hikers.

As with the other hiking routes to Baegundae Peak, the path ends at Bae-gun-bong-am-mun (백운봉암문) fortress gate before the final ascent to Baegundae Peak.

How To Get To The Bukhansan Fortress Entrance Start Point

The Bukhansan Fortress Entrance is much easier to reach by car and public transport as it’s closer to the city than the Doseonsa Temple start point. There are buses that stop outside the entrance and a subway stop (Gupabal Station) about 15 minutes away by bus or taxi.

There are a lot of restaurants, cafes and shops in this area, which is why it’s a more popular starting point to hike Baegundae Peak than Doseonsa Temple. You can stock up on food from convenience stores, grab a coffee for hiking energy, or pick up food from food stalls to take with you.

The walk from the bus stop / car park to the national park entrance sign (above), which is the starting point for this hike, takes about 10 minutes. You’ll need to pass by all the restaurants and shops first. Head left from here and you’ll see signs (like the one below) and signposts pointing to the peak.

By Public Transport: Take the subway (line 3) to Gupabal Station (구파빌역). Leave from exit 1 of the station and then wait for bus 34 or 704 to the start point (Bukhansan Fortress Entrance 북한산성입구). If there are many people waiting, take a taxi. A taxi should cost about 6,000 KRW and will be faster.

Once you get off the bus at Bukhansan Fortress Entrance (북한산성입구), which should take about 15 minutes, keep walking in the same direction as the bus and turn right at the first junction. Walk straight along the road up to the trail entrance and that is where your adventure will begin.

By Car: It is possible to drive to the starting point (Bukhansan Fortress Entrance 북한산성입구) and park your car by the entrance. There are lots of parking spaces available. However, there are also lots of restaurants at the start point so it can be busy at times, especially on the weekends.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 은평구 진관동 북한산성입구주차장

Bukhansan Fortress Entrance To Baegundae 2 Ranger Station

Length: 6.3km

Time: 5-6 hours

Difficulty: 3/5 or 4/5

The third route is a one-way path that starts from the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance, goes to Baegundae Peak, then descends down the opposite side of the park towards the eastern part of Seoul. The end is close to Doseonsa Temple, but ends at the Baegundae 2 Ranger Station instead.

I recommend starting at the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance as it’s more convenient for stocking up with hiking supplies at the start of the hike. The hike down from Baegundae Peak to the Baegundae 2 Ranger Station is also short and not that steep, making it a nice end to the hike.

The path from the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance to Baegundae Peak can follow the aforementioned Easy Course (3/5) or Difficult Course (4/5). I’ve highlighted the Baegundae Peak Difficult Course on the map below as it’s faster and this is an all day hike through Bukhansan National Park.

Although this is an all-day hike, it’s not any more difficult than the return hike starting and ending at the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance to Baegundae Peak. There is actually less ‘advanced’ course as the path down from Baegundae Peak to the ranger station is ‘intermediate’ and not that steep.

If you start hiking around 9am, you should reach Baegundae Peak around noon, maybe later depending on which course you chose from Borisa Temple. The descent from the peak takes about 90 minutes and the final sections allow you to maintain a good pace all the way to the bottom.

The path after Baegundae Peak starts with rocky steps and changes into wooden steps from time to time when the pathway is too slippery. After the first 1.0km of the descent, the path resolves into a gravel or dirt path that’s easy to walk along. There are great views of Seoul ahead of you.

Towards the end of the second section you’ll pass various temples, such as Insuam (pictured below), as well as traditional Korean buildings and park management facilities. At the end of the hike the path changes to paved road and there are various pathways leading back to the city.

Either walk to the ranger station, or leave the path early and visit the Bukhansan National Park Baegundae Visitor Center. This is closer to Doseonsa Temple and has a public toilet. There are also vending machines to replenish your water supplies.

From here, walk back to Bukhansan Ui Subway Station for buses and subway connections back into central Seoul. The walk takes about an hour and is the same path that leads to Doseonsa Temple. There are restaurants in this area where you can enjoy traditional Korean hiking foods.

Baegundae Visitor Center Address: 서울특별시 강북구 우이동 삼양로173길 462

The Final Ascent To Baegundae Peak Summit

The final ascent to Baegundae Peak is the same for all hiking routes as it’s a one-way path off the main routes. It’s tougher than the other parts of the hike and deserves its own section as there are many things to be careful for. There are also lots of things to enjoy from the top, not least the views.

After you arrive at the Bae-gun-bong-am-mun (백운봉암문) fortress gate, you should turn left (west) towards Baegundae Peak, following the fortress walls before stepping above them. The path (shown below) is narrow for a while, but soon opens into the rocky slopes that make up the final ascent.

The next section isn’t for the faint of heart. There are a few open areas before the main climb to the peak, but they quickly give way to steps carved into the rock with metal railings being the only thing stopping you from dropping to the foothills below. There are the occasional ropes to help you, too.

As Baegundae Peak is one of the most popular hiking destinations for hikers in Seoul, especially in autumn foliage season, expect this part of the hike to be crowded at times. Once you’ve braved the scary walk along the edge of the cliff, there is a large slab of rock to rest on below the peak.

This large rock, and some smaller areas around it, aren’t the actual peak of Baegundae – that’s a bit further up and can take a long time to get to depending on the number of people hiking that day. Take a break and enjoy the views before pulling yourself up to the peak. This is a great place to have lunch.

The last few steps to the very peak of the mountain can take longer than the previous section as the views are incredible and everyone wants to take a selfie with the peak-stone, which shows the name of the peak and height. There’s also a Korean flag, which adds to the scene.

The pictures above were taken on a Saturday in October, which is one of the most popular times to hike Bukhansan. The queue was slow moving and people had to squeeze past each other while trying to hold on to the railing. It’s not comfortable, but the views at the top more than make up for the wait.

As you can see below, the views from Baegundae Peak stretch out far and wide and you can see all the way over Seoul on a clear day. This is a great place to get a picture to remember your time hiking to Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park. Just don’t expect to be alone on the weekends.

One final thing… there are cats on Baegundae Peak sometimes. Yes, cats love hiking as much as humans. Or perhaps they’re looking for some food from people eating lunch at the peak. Either way, it’s an impressive journey for our feline friends as Baegundae Peak is over 800 metres high.

Which Course Should You Hike To Baegundae Peak?

The best route to hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak is dependent on the amount of time you have available, your physical fitness, the difficulty of hike you want, and what you want to see along the way. All of these courses offer spectacular views, but they differ in other aspects.

Each course provides its own benefits. The first trail I ever hiked was from Bukhansan Fortress Entrance up along the steep trail. At that time I wasn’t in the best of shape and it was hard on the legs, but doable. The accomplishment I felt when I arrived to the top, and the views, made it worth it.

It wasn’t until later that I discovered the longer ‘easy’ trail up from Bukhansan Fortress Entrance. This route is great if you have a whole day to spend on the mountain as you can enjoy the views along the way, as well as from the top. Combining this trail with another trail exposes you to more of the park.

It is possible to go up the shorter route and then back down the longer route, meaning you can still enjoy the views and your knees won’t be an issue on the way down. I would recommend this or the Doseonsa course if you’re worried about hurting your legs or you have problems with your knees.

The trail starting from Doseonsa Temple is the quickest way up and down, along with the route from the Baegundae 2 Ranger Station. These are great trails if you are worried about the steepness or the length of the other trails. Also, this route is great for a sunrise hike to Baegundae Peak.

Below is a hiking map that shows the hiking routes through the southern half of Bukhansan National Park, including hiking routes to Baegundae Peak. You can use this map to help you plan your route from various starting locations to the peak and back down again, including those mentioned.

What To Prepare To Hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak

To be fully prepared to hike Bukhansan there are a few things you should get ready before you head out on your adventure. Some of these are essential considerations that you should be aware of before you hike, others are nice extras to think about and can improve your hiking experience.

Choose which trail to hike to Baegundae Peak: Hopefully you’ve already decided which path you want to hike to the peak from the previous sections in this article.

Work out how to get to the trail start point: See the ‘how to get there’ sections above. I also recommend downloading the Naver Maps app as it’s essential for getting around Korea.

Decide when you will go hiking in Bukhansan: There’s something to see in Bukhansan in every season. Visit on a weekday for less crowded hiking trails and avoid hiking in the rain if possible.

Consider what to wear when hiking Bukhansan: From hiking clothes to hiking accessories, it’s good to prepare in advance and make sure you have the right gear any time you hike in Korea.

Pack appropriately for your Bukhansan hike: As well as the right clothes, you’ll need a some hiking equipment, food, snacks, and other supplies to keep you safe and comfortable all day.

Think about what to do when you finish hiking Bukhansan: This final consideration could be the one that leaves a lasting memory and caps off a great day out in Bukhansan National Park

These last 4 points will be covered in the next sections of this guide to hiking to Baegundae Peak. This is really useful info that I’ve gathered through years of hiking, as well as from the odd mistake and accident. Take a note of these sections to make sure you have all you need to enjoy your hike.

Remember, if you’re worried about getting lost while you hike or not sure you want to organise everything yourself, you can book a private tour to Baegundae Peak to take you to the peak, teach you about the park’s nature and history on the way, and make sure you get home safely.

One last thing, when you hike in Korea…

Don’t Forget Your Passport!

Don’t worry, you don’t need your passport to hike in Korea’s national parks. However, if you want a fun souvenir, or you plan to hike more of Korea’s national parks, why not pick up a National Park Hiking Passport like the one above. You can find them at the entrance to national parks in Korea.

This passport-style book allows you to collect stamps from all of the national parks across Korea, including Hallasan National Park on Jeju Island. If you live in Korea, this is a fun challenge to encourage you to hike all of Korea’s best national parks and see more of the country.

Appropriately, Bukhansan is the first national park you can get a stamp for. Will it be your last?

When Is The Best Time To Hike In Bukhansan National Park?

I have had the opportunity to hike Bukhansan in all seasons of the year. For me, the best seasons for hiking are autumn, spring and winter. Summer isn’t a terrible month for hiking, but the heat, humidity, and armies of mosquitoes attacking you make it the most difficult time to hike.

During spring you can see the rebirth of nature after the long Korean winter, with green shoots, colourful flowers, and warm breezes in the air. In autumn you can enjoy walking over crisp Korean autumn foliage that has recently fallen, with views of vivd mountain slopes away in the distance.

However, most people have the same idea as myself and therefore the mountain can be busy during the weekends in these seasons. This is the reason why I like hiking Bukhansan in winter. Fewer people brave the snowy peaks and windy valleys. However, that’s not to say it’s empty.

Although it is a popular mountain, with many people from Seoul and beyond hiking here, during winter the trails are less busy, allowing you to take the hike at your own pace. You can stop to enjoy the views whenever you please. This is also one of the best places to see snow in Seoul when it falls.

The best time to hike Bukhansan is on a weekday (less busy) during April, May, September, October, or early November. In April and May the weather is warm and the forests are full of nature. In the autumn months, the autumn foliage is gorgeous. January and February are good for snow, too.

A Note About Air Pollution In Seoul

If you plan to hike in late winter or spring, you should check the air pollution levels. Unfortunately, this is a problem in Seoul and across Korea throughout the year, but is most noticeable at these times. If you have a sensitivity to air pollution, bring a mask or postpone the hike for another day.

Most of the year the air pollution isn’t at serious levels, but it peaks around March and April due to seasonal winds blowing yellow dust across from Mongolia and China. During these seasons, the air pollution, known as fine dust, may ruin the views and be hazardous for your health.

Check an air pollution website or app like AQICN to check the latest pollution levels and to get a pollution forecast for the week ahead. If the pollution levels reach over 200, it might be best to postpone your hike for a clearer day. Air pollution is usually lowest after it has rained.

What To Wear Hiking In Bukhansan National Park

Once you’ve figured out what time of year you want to hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak, you should pack the right clothes for the season. Of course, the weather in Korea can change day to day, so also bring appropriate clothes for the weather that day (i.e. a raincoat if it’s raining).

No matter the season you should wear hiking boots and if this is not possible a good pair of sneakers will do. In the past people have chosen to wear other forms of footwear, however, it is recommended to wear something sturdy that will support your ankles and provide cushion when you are walking up.

It is important that what you wear is comfortable and doesn’t restrict your movement. If it is likely to rain you should consider waterproof trousers or trousers that won’t cause friction when wet. When hiking it is always good to have layers to add or remove, even in winter when you get hot hiking uphill.

In summer you may want to wear a t-shirt, but a wind breaker or something with long sleeves may be necessary for when you are on the top of the mountain. It is a similar situation in other seasons. A fleece, vest, windbreaker or coat (in winter) to add to the layers you are wearing certainly helps.

For the hike to Baegundae Peak I would recommend taking gloves, these could be helpful in all seasons when climbing up the section with metal railing and rope. Sweaty or cold hands can make it difficult to grip onto the supports, therefore wearing gloves can be a life saver.

Hiking Clothes For Different Seasons

In terms of what to wear hiking in Korea during each season, here’s a rough guide to what to pack:

Spring & Autumn: These seasons are warm with a few showers, but not heavy rain or snow. Dress lightly as you’ll be hot going up the mountain, but also pack a light jacket for the peak as it can get windy and cold up there. You’ll also be cooler going down after reaching the summit.

• Top: Light top.
• Jacket you can store in your bag.
• Legs: Light trousers to protect from insects.
• Feet: Regular hiking socks.

Summer: Summer in Korea is hot and humid and the wettest season. I recommend light clothes for hiking in hot weather. Cover your arms and legs to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the chance of sunburn. Pack a poncho (sold in the parks during summer) or light waterproof jacket in case of rain.

• Top: Long-sleeved thin hiking or cotton t-shirt.
• Rain jacket or rain poncho if raining
• Legs: Long shorts or trousers to protect against mosquitoes.
• Feet: Ankle socks.

Winter: The winter months in Korea can be very cold, well below freezing, so wrap up warm. However, you’ll heat up as you hike, so also wear clothes that you can shove in a bag or wrap around your waist. Insulated socks and inner wear are recommended if the weather is far below zero.

• Top: Layers that you can remove easily.
• Jacket with wind protection, thin fleece.
• Legs: Thick or lined trousers (with leggings if really cold).
• Feet: Woollen hiking socks.

Headwear: A cap or a wool hat can be important on a hike to protect yourself from the sun or to keep you warm as the temperature drops. This applies to all seasons as you can be get sunburn in any season, even winter. Bring a cap for summer and wool hat for winter to help keep heat in.

Hiking boots: A decent pair of hiking boots is the best investment you can make when hiking. I use the same pair most of the year round (except summer) and they keep my feet and ankles safe and protected from injury. They also help me in bad weather conditions as they provide sturdy grip.

• Recommended hiking boots for women.
• Recommended hiking boots for men.

Tip: Bringing a pair of comfortable hiking boots with you when you visit Korea can be useful for more than just hiking. Travellers end up walking a lot – around palaces, in hanok villages, outside temples, and along countless streets. Hiking / trekking boots will keep your feet cosy while you explore, too.

For more info about what to wear, pack, and prepare for hiking in Bukhansan or other Korean national parks, check out this guide to hiking in Korea. There are more than 20 hiking tips that will make sure you have a great day out in the mountains (weather not guaranteed!).

What To Pack To Hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak

What should you pack to hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak? As mentioned, for your Bukhansan hike it is important to take extra layers and clothes that will keep you warm. Depending on the season you will add different items to your bag, but extra layers are something you should always consider.

Food And Drinks For Hiking In Bukhansan

No matter the route you take up to Baegundae Peak, you should pack some snacks, water or other liquids, and possibly a lunch in your bag. Nut bars and fruit are always a good snack to give you some energy on the mountain. For lunch, buy a gimbap or sandwich at the entrance to eat at the peak.

Water, or your choice of hydrating drink, is a must when hiking. Depending on the season, the amount you need to drink will differ. In winter a 500ml bottle may be enough, but if you hike in summer, you’ll need at least 1 litre or more as you’ll lose a lot of liquids through sweat in the high heat and humidity.

My Hiking Supplies

Here’s what I usually pack in my bag when I’m hiking for four hours or more:

• fruit (apple or banana)
• vegetables (tomatoes, sliced peppers, sliced carrots)
• trail bars / energy bars
• small bag of nuts
• gimbap (Korean-style sushi roll)
• 1l of water
• 1 bottle of Powerade

Hiking Equipment For Hiking In Bukhansan

Even though you’ll want a light backpack when you hike Bukhansan, there are some essential items that you should bring whenever you hike, such as hiking poles, tissues, a sweat towel, and gloves. These items can change depending on the season, but most are essential for any hike.

Backpack or daypack: You’ll need something light to carry your snacks, water, and equipment with you when you hike. For a day hike, you shouldn’t need more than a 25 litre backpack.

Reusable water bottles: If you want to reduce your environmental impact, bring some collapsible or reusable water bottles with you and fill them at the water fountains at the park’s entrance.

Hiking poles: These extendable hiking sticks are great for getting over rocky paths and for improving balance while reducing leg pressure while descending the mountain. Not essential for everyone.

Sun protection: Baegundae Peak is exposed with no chance of shade, and some of the paths near the start of the hike are also unprotected. Be sure to apply suncream and wear sunglasses.

Sweat towel or handkerchief: Whatever season you hike Bukhansan in, you’re probably going to sweat a bit (or lots). A sweat towel or handkerchief is also useful for drying your hands.

Insect repellant: From spring to autumn, you will find mosquitoes in the mountains. Be sure to spray yourself before hiking Bukhansan. Summer is the worst period for insects while winter has none.

Hygiene supplies: This includes tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitiser. Tissues and wet wipes have many uses, including cleaning your hands before you eat or if you need to use a toilet.

First aid kit: This isn’t necessary, but can be useful if you’re concerned about cuts and scrapes while you hike. I usually have a few plasters in my bag in case I cut myself on a thorny bush.

Cash & T-Money card: Bring some cash to use at the food stalls or vending machines at the national park entrances and other locations. Use a T-Money Card for public transportation to the park.

What To Bring For Hiking Bukhansan In Winter

The following items are hiking equipment you might need if you plan to hike in winter when snow and ice can build up on the hiking paths of Bukhansan.

Crampons / cleats: Even if the start point doesn’t have ice or snow, there certainly can be some at the peak. Pack some cleats to slip on when it gets icy to stop you from slipping and injuring yourself.

Windproof hiking gloves: Temperatures in winter get below zero and as you hike to Baegundae Peak, the temperature will drop even more. Windproof, waterproof gloves will keep your hands safe.

Sunglasses: Winter in Korea is the sunniest time of the year and the sun can be blinding as it reflects off the snow or ice. Definitely bring shades if you plan to hike Bukhansan in winter.

Heat packs: Hand and foot warmers or heat packs to stick on your clothes are both really useful for hiking in Korea during winter. I always pack hand warmers for my pockets to keep my hands alive.

Rent Hiking Gear From The Seoul Hiking Tourism Centre

Don’t want to bring your hiking equipment with you when you hike? Good news, you can rent it from the Seoul Hiking Tourism Centre. Located close to the Bukhansan Ui subway station, this tourist-friendly centre allows you to rent clothes and equipment for the day for your Bukhansan hike.

You can rent everything you need, including hiking boots, jackets, poles, trousers, and shirts. Prices are very reasonable and can be a great solution if you plan to hike Bukhansan but you forgot your gear or chose not to pack it. Please note: You need to reserve gear in advance from their website.

There are also free guided hiking tours on Wednesdays for various hiking routes in Bukhansan, including hikes to Baegundae Peak. There are also hiking and trekking courses that change each month, focusing on some special feature in the park during that month, such as autumn foliage.

Address in Korean: 서울특별시 강북구 삼양로173길 52 5층

What To Do After Your Baegundae Peak Hike

After you finish your hike to Baegundae Peak, there is still lots to enjoy in Bukhansan National Park. Whichever route you choose to hike down, you will find restaurants selling delicious Korean food, including the hiker’s favourite – haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and makgeolli (Korean rice wine).

There are also restaurants that serve other dishes, such as kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), samgyetang (chicken soup), or dalkdoritang (spicy chicken stew). If you don’t feel like traditional Korean food, there are some cafes in the area, too. You can sit and enjoy the final scenes of Bukhansan’s nature.

You’ll find Korean restaurants and cafes at both ends of the Baegundae Peak hike. There are more restaurants at the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance, but I prefer the restaurants along the road from the end of the Doseonsa / Baegundae 2 Ranger Station courses. These are more authentic and quieter.

If you’re interested in hiking more of Korea’s national parks, then perhaps you’d enjoy hiking in Seoraksan National Park on Korea’s East Coast. There are several hiking trails, as well as a cable car, famous temples, a giant bronze Buddha, and great places to eat and drink with mountain views.

What To Eat Near Doseonsa Temple Entrance

The pictures above are taken from San Restaurant (산 음식점). You can find amazing traditional Korean dishes here with a selection of traditional Korean alcohol, including makgeolli and dong-dong-ju. I highly recommend you stop here for a haemul pajeon (serves 2) with a bottle of makgeolli or two.

San Restaurant Address: 서울특별시 강북구 삼양로173길 207

Opposite San is another traditional restaurant called Seonun Sanjang (선운산장), which sells bulgogi (grilled beef) with lots of banchan (Korean side dishes). This is a great place to try a traditional Korean meal that’s best shared with others. Another good option is Gaenari Sanjang (개나리산장).

If you finish the course at the Doseonsa Temple entrance, you will need to walk for about an hour to Bukhansan Ui station, which is the departure point for both the subway and buses into other parts of Seoul. You’ll find restaurants and cafes in this area, too. Not as authentic, but still good for dinner.

Tip: If you don’t want to walk for an hour from the temple entrance to Bukhansan Ui station, you can use Kakao Taxi to call a cab to come and pick you up. However, taxis might not want to go all that way before collecting you, so don’t count on this as a guaranteed option.

What To Eat At Bukhansan Fortress Entrance

The Bukhansan Fortress Entrance area is admittedly a much more convenient location to end your hike and has a wider selection of cafes, restaurants and shops to visit. There are dessert cafes, selling Korean desserts such as the unique Bukhansan Montblanc (pictured below) and other treats.

If you feel hungry, I recommend trying a ggul hotteok (꿀호떡) – a traditional Korean winter street food that’s popular with hikers. A ggul hotteok is a sweet Korean pancake that’s filled with ingredients such as honey, nuts, seeds, and cinnamon. Ggul is the Korean word for honey, so expect a sweet taste.

Want to try some spicy Korean food? Head to Bukhansan Megi Maeuntang (북한산메기매운탕), which serves megi maeuntang – a spicy stew made of freshwater catfish that has lots of vegetables and side dishes. This isn’t a meal for solo hikers as the smallest portion serves 2. Try it with friends.

Rest And Recover At A Korean Sauna

After hiking to Baegundae Peak, you deserve to rest and relax and to let your body heal. One of the best ways to do this is at a Korean jjimjilbang (sauna and communal hot room). These saunas are typically split into two sections – one with hot water pools, the other with communal rooms.

The hot (and cold) water pools are great for soaking and resting weary bones. There are also steam rooms and Scandinavian-style saunas with wooden benches to squeeze out the last bit of sweat in case hiking wasn’t enough for you. This area is gender-segregated and everyone is naked.

In the communal rooms you will find sleeping mats, heated domes (pictured above), TVs, singing rooms, food and drink counters, and other facilities. These rooms are for chilling in and you can also spend the night here. These areas are mixed and everyone should wear pyjamas.

There are many spas and saunas in Seoul, and these are known as ‘saunas’ (사우나) or ‘jjimjilbangs‘ (찜질방). If you want to find one in Seoul, try searching for ‘사우나’ as this is the more common name for these saunas. Some saunas might not have the communal rooms and will only have baths.

How To Hike Bukhansan Mountain FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about how to hike Bukhansan Mountain in Seoul, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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This guide to hiking Hallasan in winter will help you with all you need to get ready for the tough, but rewarding hike to the peak. Featuring tips on what to wear, what to pack, how to prepare, and loads of other essential tips, you’ll be ready to go out and reach the peak after you read this.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, or ready for your first summit, there’s a lot to know and prepare to hike Hallasan in winter. Have you made a reservation? Do you know which bus to take there and back? What will you eat after the hike? Find out all that and more below.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Should You Hike Hallasan In Winter?

Winter in Korea is a great time to go hiking. Standing knee-deep in snow, catching your breath as the snow dazzles all around, sunbeams bouncing off the crystalline seas that surround Jeju – it’s a view not to be missed.

Hallasan Mountain is South Korea’s highest peak and offers breathtaking views that you won’t see from any other mountain in Korea. You get the chance to look out over the egg-white of Jeju Island’s lowlands as you stand atop its volcanic egg-yolk peak.

There are so many reasons why you should hike Hallasan in winter. Snowy landscapes, the chance to escape the city, a great workout, reconnecting with nature, or to see the whole of Jeju Island from atop South Korea’s highest mountain. Take your pick.

For me, the number 1 reason to hike Hallasan Mountain in winter is the fresh white snow. I’m a big kid at heart and there’s something uplifting and energising about pushing my feet along snowy pathways, having snowball fights, and seeing snow cover everything.

Whatever reason you choose, you won’t be disappointed by the end of it. The feeling from accomplishing a challenging hike like this is matched only by the contentment you get from devouring a delicious meal afterwards.

I would recommend trying out Jeju’s black pork samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ) and a bottle of the island’s own soju, aptly called Hallasan. It’s the perfect end to the day and guaranteed to help you into a long sleep that night.

Hiking Hallasan in winter is one of those South Korea bucket list activities that you should definitely attempt if you’re visiting Korea in winter. Whether you’re an accomplished hiker or novice, there’s a hiking route that will be right for you and allow you to see amazing sights.

In this guide I’ll tell you all you need to know to hike Hallasan in winter, including how to prepare for the hike (very important), what to expect, and tips for Jeju Island and hiking in Korea.

What To Prepare Before Hiking Hallasan

Hallasan is one of Korea’s most popular mountains for hiking, with winter being an especially busy time as everyone wants to go out and see the snow. To avoid disappointment on the day of your hike, there are a few simple things you can do to prepare.

The following 5 steps will help you plan and prepare your winter Hallasan hike. I’d recommend doing these things at least 1 week in advance, further ahead if you need to make a reservation for a hiking course.

1: Choose Your Hiking Trail

The first thing you’ll need to do is choose your trail. Do you want a short or long trail? Do you want to go up and down the same trail, or hike different trails?

There are technically 7 hiking trails on Hallasan Mountain, but I’ll only cover the 4 trails that go near the peak, broken down into pairs. These trails offer the best sights and the best snow hiking experience.

Gwaneumsa & Seongpanak
These trails take you to the highest point of Hallasan Mountain. They offer a longer, steeper, and more difficult hike. Recommended for intermediate-advanced hikers, but can be done by beginners with preparation.

Eorimok & Yeongsil
These trails take you to the back-side of the peak. They are shorter trails that are easier to hike. Recommended for beginner-intermediate hikers.

I’d recommend ascending one trail and then descending the opposite trail. This way you’ll get to see more of Hallasan and Jeju Island from different angles.

Here’s a brief overview of each course:

Gwaneumsa Trail

One of the most scenic courses, but also steep and difficult to climb. Starts in the north and easy to get to from Jeju City. I’d recommend descending this route after ascending the Seongpanak Trail.

Length: 8.7km (one way)
Time: 8-10 hours (return)
Difficulty: 4/5

How To Get To Gwaneumsa Trail

Take bus #281 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Seogwipo) for 25 mins and get off at Jeju University. Then, take the bus #475 for 15 minutes. Get off at the entrance of the Gwaneumsa Trail.

Seongpanak Trail

A long and lovely course that rises gradually from the east. As you’re hiking east to west, the sun will be behind or above you most of the time, which is helpful. There’s a shelter half-way up where you can get ramyeon and rest.

Length: 9.6km (one way)
Time: 7-9 hours (return)
Difficulty: 4/5

How To Get To Seongpanak Trail

Take bus #281 or #181 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Seogwipo) for 40 minutes. Get off at the entrance to the Seongpanak Trail.

Eorimok Trail

This trail offers a good trek that, although hard at first, isn’t that tough overall. After ascending quite quickly, the course levels out, revealing lovely views over the west coast and lots of oreums (volcanic cones). There’s a rest area at the top with toilets.

Length: 4.7km (one way)
Time: 3-4 hours (return)
Difficulty: 3/5

How To Get To Eorimok Trail

Take bus #240 from Jeju City Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Jungmun) for 40 minutes. Get off at the entrance of the Eorimok Trail.

Yeongsil Trail

Although this course looks quite short, there’s a 2.5km walk from the bus stop to the course start. After that, this is a beautiful hike through snowy forests that turn into dramatic cliff-edges with scary-looking drops into the valley below. Don’t worry, the edge is fenced to protect hikers from falling down.

Length: 3.7km (one way)
Time: 2-3 hours (return)
Difficulty: 3/5

How To Get To Yeongsil Trail

Take bus #240 from Jeju City Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Jungmun) for 50 minutes. Get off at the Yeongsil Ticket Office and walk to the trail entrance for 2.5km.

Which Course Should I Hike?

They’re all great courses, but I would recommend the following routes based on what you’ll see, the length of the course, and ease of public transport in either direction.

Long Hike – Start on the Seongpanak Trail, hike to the peak, then descend the Gwaneumsa Trail. It’s easier to get to the start point at Seongpanak and the Gwaneumsa Trail is closer to Jeju City, reducing travel time at the end. The Gwaneumsa Trail is steeper, so it’s best to go down this route.

Easier Hike – Start on the Eorimok Trail, hike to the back-side peak, then descend the Yeongsil Trail. It’s easier to get to the start point at Eorimok as it’s closer to Jeju City, meaning you can get a taxi if you miss the bus. The bus back to Jeju City passes Yeongsil before it gets to the Eorimok entrance, so you’ll have a much higher chance of getting on the bus back to Jeju City.

2: Make A Reservation

If you plan to hike the Gwaneumsa Trail or Seongpanak Trail, you need to make an online reservation, otherwise you will not be allowed access to the hiking trail. This is the same if you hike Hallasan in winter or any other season.

Online reservations can be made by the end of next month after opening on the 1st of every month. Here are some examples to show how that works.

February 1st:
Reservations can be made from February 1st to March 31st.

February 28th:
Reservations can be made between February 28th and March 31st

I’d recommend making a reservation as soon as possible. There are only 1,000 spots available each day and the available spots can go quickly, especially on weekends.

The button below will take you to the official Hallasan online reservation site.

You don’t need a reservation to hike the Eorimok Trail or Yeongsil Trail, so if you can’t make a reservation for the other courses, these will always be available. However, this also means that these courses have become more popular and therefore busier.

3: Check The Weather Forecast

Jeju Island is a semi-tropical island and subject to sudden weather changes. The first time I hiked Hallasan in winter, the weather changed from partially cloudy to a strong blizzard that forced me to abandon my hike.

Check the weather a few days before and on the day of your hike, considering these things:

1: Is it snowing on your hiking day? If so, be prepared to hike with snow blowing in your face and possibly low visibility.

2: Has it snowed in the 2 days before you plan to hike? If so, you should have lots of fresh snow to walk through – which is good.

3: How strong is the wind on Hallasan? Even if the temperature isn’t that low, the wind can make it feel a lot colder and really hurt.

4: What’s the temperature on Hallasan? As you ascend to the peak, it will get several degrees colder. Be prepared and bring heat packs.

If in doubt, go to Google and type in ‘Hallasan weather’. You’ll see the weather for Hallasan for the next week, including wind speed, temperature, and expected snowfall.

4: Plan Your Transportation

Whilst there are a lot of options for getting to and from Hallasan, the number of people hiking in winter means that you may have some unexpected transportation issues.

Here are some things to think about when working out transportation to avoid hassles on the day of your hike.

1: Buses are infrequent and busy. Buses to Hallasan run about once an hour. Which one will you take and when will you arrive / depart from the mountain?

2: Roads can be congested. If you’re driving, expect there to be traffic jams around the car parks as everyone tries to park there. The same goes for buses.

3: Take a taxi if you have to. The last time I hiked Hallasan, there wasn’t enough space on the bus, so I asked others at the bus station if they wanted to share a taxi. The taxi fee was about 20,000 won and well worth it!

4: The return buses will be busy. Work out when you will finish the hike and what buses will be available. Be prepared to queue for a long time before getting on a bus.

These are all especially true during the weekends, but might not be so bad during the week. Definitely hike mid-week if you can, it’ll make getting to and from Hallasan a lot easier.

5: Set Your Alarm Early

The biggest tip I can give if you plan to hike Hallasan in winter is to get up early. The hiking courses open around 6:00 am and that’s a good time to start your winter Hallasan hike.

Here are some reasons why you should try to rise with the sun:

1: There are time limits on when you can hike. You will be turned away from the hiking courses after a certain time as it’s too dangerous to start hiking then. You can see these times in the picture below.

2: The roads get busier and busier. After 8:00 am, there are many people travelling to Hallasan or on the roads around Hallasan. Also, buses will be full of people and you might not be able to get on one (this happened to me last time).

3: You’ll have more time to enjoy the hike. You can pack a picnic and spend an extra hour or two taking in the incredible views.

4: Getting back will be easier. Return buses from Hallasan are also very busy. The sooner you finish the hike, the better your chance of getting on a bus back to the city.

You certainly don’t have to start hiking at the crack of dawn, but it will make it a lot easier. Try to aim to start the hike at 8:00 am if possible.

What To Wear To Hike Hallasan In Winter

Wearing the right clothes is essential when hiking in the snow during winter. However, that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on the latest hiking gear.

Here are some essentials that you should definitely wear:

Hiking Boots
A sturdy pair of hiking boots are a must for this hike. You will be crossing rocky, snowy, and icy terrain and you can sprain your ankle or slip over easily if you wear the wrong shoes. Also, hiking boots are usually waterproof and will keep your feet safe.

Here’s some Example Hiking Boots.

Thick Socks
Woollen hiking socks are good, but a couple of pairs of regular socks will do, too. These will stop your boots slipping and also stop your toes from getting too cold.

Here’s some Example Hiking Socks.

Thermal Inner Wear
If it’s windy, the cold will seep into your legs and arms very easily. Thermal inner wear (t-shirt and leggings) will keep your body warm and protected. Not essential, but very useful.

Here’s some Example Thermal Inner Wear.

Wind-resistant Hiking Jacket
You can wear as many fleeces, t-shirts, or jumpers as you need, but a good jacket is the key to staying warm and safe. Ideally water and wind-resistant, a hiking jacket should keep you warm without being too heavy. Try to avoid overly large puffer jackets as they’ll weigh you down and make your life harder.

Here’s an Example Hiking Jacket.

Hat, Gloves, and Neck-warmer
I wouldn’t travel in winter without these anyway, but they’re essential while hiking Hallasan in winter. The temperature will be below zero and you should cover up as much as possible.

As for other clothes such as trousers, jumpers, etc., I’d recommend warm and comfortable clothing. Wearing too many layers isn’t a good idea as you’ll get hot as you hike up and you’ll take them off anyway. A lightweight padded inner-jacket is a good alternative.

Personally, I wear the items I mentioned above with my hiking trousers, one t-shirt, and a fleece. The thermal inner wear and jacket keep me warm enough.

If you’re in Korea, I would recommend visiting Uniqlo for cheap and effective thermal clothes. For other items such as shoes and socks, visit a specialist hiking store.

What To Pack To Hike Hallasan In Winter 2024

Staying warm and safe is more than just dressing correctly, there are also some other items you’ll need to pack. Here’s a quick rundown of some essential items to put in your backpack.

Hiking Poles
These adjustable hiking sticks will give you extra balance and help you get up and down rocky paths more easily. They’re also really useful for checking how deep the snow is. Not essential (I don’t use them), but definitely useful.

Here’s some Example Hiking Poles.

Crampons (Ice Cleats)
Crampons are metal spikes that go on the bottom of your shoes and stop you falling over on ice or snow. You basically can’t hike Hallasan in winter without them and you’ll have a hard time without a pair of these. These are called aijen (아이젠) in Korean.

Here’s some Example Crampons.

Heat Packs
These come in two forms – ones you stick to your body/in your shoes, or ones you put in your pocket to keep your hands warm. If you’re not used to the cold weather, I’d recommend both.

Here’s some Example Heat Packs.

Snow Gaiters
These will stop snow getting into your shoes and stop your toes from getting wet and frosty. They’re very useful in thick snow.

Here’s some Example Snow Gaiters.

Tissues
In the cold weather, your nose is likely to run a lot. A pack of tissues is really handy and you’ll need them for a whole load of things.

Food & Water
You probably won’t have a chance to buy food or water on the way, so make sure you stock up before leaving the city. Bring food for lunch, snacks, and at least 1 litre of water. I’d also recommend packing a bottle of Powerade, it really helps when hiking.

Although there is a rest station on the Seongpanak Trail that sells food and drinks, as well as a convenience store at the start of the Gwaneumsa Trail, don’t rely on them in case they’re closed.

I wouldn’t bring much else with you as any extra weight will make the hike more difficult. If you want to bring more, think about whether or not you really need it.

Winter Weather On Jeju Island 2024

Whilst mainland Korea has generally dry and sunny weather during winter, Jeju Island has much less predictable weather that can change suddenly. Here’s some details about winter weather on Jeju Island.

Temperature
Average daily temperatures are between 0 and 10 degrees Celsius, but can go below zero degrees. Hallasan is high above the sea-level, so will be considerably colder than the coast.

Rainfall
Winter is the driest season for Jeju Island and Korea and there is an average of 9-10 days of rain per month. However, as it’s so cold, this can fall as snow.

Wind
There can be strong winds on Jeju Island during winter that will make you very cold. Wrap up when walking along the coast and certainly if you hike Hallasan in winter.

Clouds
The weather on Jeju Island changes quickly and there can be cloudy skies one minute and then clear skies the next. You’ll often see clouds forming around the peak of Hallasan and I’ve noticed they tend to hang around the west coast more than the east coast.

Overall, the weather during winter on Jeju Island is generally cold, but not as cold as the rest of Korea. It’s also mostly dry with a few showers or snow. There are plenty of sunny days, but it’s not guaranteed and you’ll see big changes in the weather on some days.

Tips For Hiking In Korea In 2024

Whatever time of year you go hiking, here are some crucial tips that will make your hiking experience much more enjoyable, safer, and comfortable.

1: Pack light, pack right, and pack bright. Remove unnecessary items from your backpack and only bring the essentials (water, snacks, raincoat, sunglasses, suncream, etc.). And to fit in with the other hikers, and for safety, get a bright backpack and hiking clothes.

2: Plan your hike. Check your transportation options, check for route closures, and figure out when you will start and finish your hike. Be prepared for the time and energy you’re going to invest in your hike.

3: Prepare for the weather. Mountains have a climate of their own, and clouds, wind, rain, and snow can all appear from nowhere and change the conditions of your hike severely. Depending on the season you are hiking in, be prepared for the worst (but hope for the best).

4: Look after your body. Hiking can be tough and work a lot of muscles you’re not used to using. Stretch before and after the hike (and a bit at the peak, too). Go slow and steady if you need to. And make use of the toilets when you see them as you might not see another one for hours.

5: Have fun on the way. Hiking is a fun experience and the goal is to enjoy the journey, not the destination. Stop, look around your surroundings, and take in the unique sights, sounds, and smells on the way. It’s not a race.

For a full list of my best hiking tips, check out my article with 21 Top Korean Hiking Tips.

What To Do On Jeju Island

Jeju Island is one of my favourite places to travel in Korea and has so many unique things to offer. There’s always something to do.

You can ride a horse, trek around the island, experience a range of unique Jeju Island dishes, explore hundreds of cafes and bars, stroll through flowery fields, see inside a lava tube, learn in dozens of museums, shop till you drop, journey under the sea in a submarine, scuba dive, visit a traditional village, and so much more on Jeju Island!

Here’s a great Jeju Island Winter Itinerary to help you plan what to do for the rest of your time in winter. Although it could also be used any other time of year, too.

As there’s so much to do on Jeju Island, it features several times on my South Korea Bucket List, which has 50 of the most unmissable activities to do when you’re in Korea.

How To Hike Hallasan In Winter FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about hiking Hallasan in winter, in case you need more help planning.

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Naejangsan National Park is a treasure trove of stunning sights, uniquely Korean views, and peaceful spots to connect with nature and Korean culture. Literally meaning ‘concealed inside’, Naejangsan (Naejang Mountain) certainly has a lot of hidden wonders to provide visitors with awe-inspiring photo opportunities, unforgettable moments, and the chance to find spiritual calm among natural beauty.

Lush forests line the sides of the numerous small mountains, whilst the long, pleasant valley has been carefully crafted over the years with long, winding maple-tree lined roads. Follow slowly flowing streams through the valley, explore traditional Korean Buddhist temples, and marvel at the natural wonders on display in this beautiful national park. Find out why Naejangsan is one of the top 10 most beautiful places in Korea.

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How To Go To Naejangsan National Park

There are three main ways to go to Naejangsan National Park in Jeollabuk-do. You can get to Naejangsan National Park by car, train, or bus. If you don’t drive, taking the train is a faster option, but the bus will be cheaper and runs more frequently. Below are details about each of these travel methods.

How To Go To Naejangsan By Car

To get to Naejangsan National Park by car, head towards the park’s entrance at the Naejangsan Rest Stop (pictured above).

It should take under 3 hours to drive from Seoul to Naejangsan National Park, however, during peak fall foliage season it may take a lot longer.

It may be best to leave very early or stay overnight the previous night in nearby Jeongeup City to beat the traffic and get in before the crowds.

Naejangsan Rest Stop:
In Korean – 내장터미널휴게소

Time From Seoul:
2 hours 40 minutes
(longer during peak season)

How To Go To Naejangsan By Train

To go to Naejangsan National Park by train, you should take the KTX (Korea’s high speed train) as below:

Seoul Station
to
Jeongeup Station

Once you get to Jeongeup Station, walk outside the main entrance and catch local bus 171, which goes directly to Naejangsan National Park entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the bus terminal to the Naejangsan Rest Stop (내장터미널휴게소).

Jeongeup Train Station:
In Korean – 정읍역

Time From Seoul:
1 hour 35 minutes
(then bus 171 – 30 minutes)

Cost:
39,000 KRW (Adult)
19,900 KRW (Child)

KoRail Booking Website

Please note: There are only a few KTX trains from Seoul to Jeongeup each day. Be sure to check travel times and book in advance.

How To Go To Naejangsan By Bus

To go to Naejangsan National Park by bus, you should take the intercity bus as below:

Seoul Central City Bus Terminal
to
Jeongeup Station

Once you get to Jeongeup Bus Terminal, walk towards Jeongeup Station main entrance and catch local bus 171, which goes directly to Naejangsan National Park entrance.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the bus terminal to the Naejangsan Rest Stop (내장터미널휴게소).

Jeongeup Bus Terminal:
In Korean – 정읍시외버스공용터미널

Time From Seoul:
2 hours 55 minutes
(then bus 171 – 30 minutes)

Cost:
Economy – 15,800 KRW
Luxury – 23,200 KRW

Korea Bus Website

If you’re visiting Naejangsan from other cities, check the times from the links above from your city to Jeongeup – this is the main transfer point to get to Naejangsan National Park.

When visiting from Daejeon, I take the Mugunghwa (slow train), ITX, or KTX to Jeongeup Station from Seo-Daejeon Station.

When To Visit Naejangsan For Autumn Foliage

The best time to visit Naejangsan for fall foliage is the first week of November. The leaves start to change colour from mid-October, with the final leaves falling by mid-November.

As this is the best time to visit Naejangsan, you can find all the restaurants and food stalls operating, as well as some pop-up stalls selling souvenirs and snacks. This occurs at the main entrance, as well as outside Naejangsa Temple.

The first week of November will also be the busiest, expect large crowds and heavy traffic during this week. Plan your trip in advance and be sure to leave plenty of time for traffic jams. Avoid leaving the park around 4pm as this can be the busiest time.

Other great times to visit Naejangsan National Park are spring (mid-March to early June) and from the end of summer (early September), when the heat has dropped a bit, until the end of fall (mid-November).

For more information about when to go hiking in Korea’s very different seasons, check out this guide about When To Hike In Korea.

For more information about where and when to see fall foliage in Korea, check out these articles:

Fall Foliage Spots In Korea: The best places to see fall foliage across Korea. From national parks to palace grounds.

Korean Autumn Leaves Pictures: 45 beautiful pictures of Korea’s colourful autumn leaves.

October In Korea: Find out what to do, see, eat, and experience in the best month in Korea. Lantern festivals, fireworks, holidays, fall foliage, and lots more.

What To See At Naejangsan National Park In Autumn

Being in Naejangsan National Park, especially during autumn, is a treat in itself. Of course, there are some attractions that you won’t want to miss as you explore this relatively small, but tranquil national park.

Some of the top sights include:

Maple Tree Tunnel

A true spectacle bursting with colour during autumn in Korea, the Maple Tree Tunnel is the first breathtaking sight you’ll experience at Naejangsan National Park.

You’ll pass under the rich reds, shining golds, and vibrant greens on display from hundreds of maple trees on the path connecting the park’s entrance and Naejangsa Temple.

Visitors can either walk along this path after arriving, or can take a shuttle bus to the temple area and watch it from the window. Walking is definitely recommended.

Naejangsa Temple

Nestled in the heart of Naejangsan National Park, surrounded by some of the oldest, wisest ginkgo trees, is the superb Naejangsa Temple. Inhabiting the area since the 7^th Century AD, this carefully reconstructed temple is beautiful inside and out.

Cradled among soaring peaks and leafy trees, the traditional Buddhist temple buildings feel like they’re a part of nature. Take a moment to sit by the small pond outside, close your eyes, and reconnect with your spiritual side.

2022 Update: Sadly, the main temple burnt down in 2021. The rest of the buildings are still in tact and hopefully the main building will be rebuilt in time.

Uhwajeong Pavilion

Providing picture-postcard style views, the Uhwajeong Pavilion is a traditional Korean-style rest station with a bright blue roof. It is uniquely placed in the centre of a lake, surrounded by willowy trees that gently brush the lake’s edge.

The imperious mountains covered with fall foliage finish the scene and create an impressive backdrop. The pavilion is best viewed from the edge of the lake, or on the stone walkway that leads up to it. This spot provides truly iconic scenes that show Korea’s true beauty.

Yeonjabong Peak Observatory And Naejangsan Cable Car

For those who want to see the wooded valleys and rocky slopes without breaking a sweat on the way to the top, there’s the Naejangsan Cable Car, which will whisk you all the way up to the Yeonjabong Peak Observatory. From here you can enjoy some of the best views of the park, where the fall foliage paints a mosaic on the valley below.

Hiking At Naejangsan National Park

For many visitors, seeing the sights of Naejangsan National Park is best enjoyed with a backpack and from the top of the small but challenging peaks that overlook the central valley.

The highest peak is Sinseonbong Peak, standing tall at 763m high. Most of the hiking courses are ‘intermediate’, which means they’re suitable for people in reasonable condition.

You’ll find plenty of Korean families hiking along the many well-maintained hiking routes in the park. The cable car will give people a good head-start should they not want to tackle the ascent at the start.

For some of my top hiking in Korea tips, check out these great Hiking In Korea Tips.

Below is a map of the main hiking trails in Naejangsan National Park.

Eating At Naejangsan National Park

Visiting a national park in Korea provides the opportunity to experience some of the best Korean traditional dishes, and Naejangsan has a great selection of delicious dishes to savor.

During autumn, there are dozens of extra food stalls offering up seasonal specialties, such as roasted chestnuts, as well as the usual street food snacks like hotteok 호떡 (sweet pancake), odeng 오뎅 (fish-cake in soup), and tteokbokki 떡볶이 (spicy fried rice cake).

Traditional restaurants line the entrance of the park where you can indulge in bibimbap 비빔밥 (mixed rice with veg), haemul pajeon 해물파전 (seafood pancake), and lots of other great dishes. There are other restaurants that sell popular Korean dishes, such as donkasu (pork cutlet), as well.

If you want a break in a cute cafe, check out the one near Naejangsa Temple (pictured above). You can sip a warming coffee whilst watching the leaves drop on the ground outside.

There are also lots of nice souvenirs for sale here, including these little Buddha dolls and postcards. Be sure to pick one up as a souvenir of your journey.

Slow Post From Naejangsan

If you travelled to Naejangsan through Jeongeup Station, there’s another fun souvenir that you can send from the station to yourself (or someone else living in Korea).

Called Neurin 느린 (slow) Post, you can mail a postcard with views from Naejangsan on it. However, the postcard is delivered a year later – hence the name ‘slow post’.

You can write a message for the future, to remind yourself of the fun and experiences you had during a day out at Naejangsan National Park.

FAQ About How To Go To Naejangsan National Park

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about how to go to Naejangsan National Park, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

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This guide provides a season-by-season guide to the kind of weather you can expect, as well as the potential problems (and benefits) the seasonal changes bring. Find out when to watch out for typhoons, when to wrap up warm, and when to bring waterproofs for rainy season.

Hiking in Korea is more than just watching the weather. There are so many incredible sights to see. From cherry blossom-lined streets to the stunning views of autumn leaves, silvery reeds, and snow-capped mountain tops, I’ll show you the best places to see them all. Never miss out on the best mountains at the best time with this essential guide to hiking in Korea’s magnificent mountains.

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When To Go Hiking In Korea For The best Sights

The best seasons to go hiking in Korea are definitely spring and autumn, which both feature warm, sunny days and clears skies while you hike. Summer and winter are tougher, but you can definitely enjoy a day out hiking during these seasons.

Each season in Korea has its own charms – from winter snow to autumn leaves and a lot else in between. There’s not really a bad time to go hiking in Korea, but there are definitely better places to go during each season, and places to avoid.

This Korean seasonal hiking guide will give you a quick overview of the weather in each season, some of the best mountains to hike in each season, what you can expect to see, and how to prepare for hiking at that time of year.

Don’t forget to check out my top 21 Korean Hiking Tips to get even more advice about how to have a fun day out hiking in Korea’s national parks. Also, be sure to check my Complete Guide To Korea’s Seasons to know what to experience in each month. This covers a month-by-month guide to weather, events, activities, and festivals to enjoy throughout the year in Korea.

Spring Hiking In Korea

One of the best seasons to go hiking in Korea. Full of nature, new beginnings, bright flowers, and warm weather. After a long winter, spring brings positivity for the year ahead. The arrival of the cherry blossoms brings a lot of people out into the mountains.

Spring Weather

Still cold from winter in early March, quickly warming and quite hot by the end of May. There can be seasonal fine dust during early spring, but the weather is quite nice apart from that. There can be some showers in early April, but they’re not too strong and you can hike with waterproof clothing.

Best Mountains To Hike

Head to Jirisan or Hallasan (Jeju) for incredible views of Cherry blossoms. Hwangmaesan Mountain in Hapcheon (near Busan) has fields of pink flowers on the mountainside, old fortress walls, and even sheep wondering the hills – a nice secret spot away from the crowds.

Near Seoul, Bukhansan National Park is always good, and you can get views of the greenery returning to parks and palaces across the capital.

Chiaksan National Park near Wonju is packed with more trees and there is also the Wonju Rail-bike Park that offers a fun rail-bike experience along an abandoned train line, passing by lakes, cliffs, and lots of pretty sights.

What You Can See

An abundance of flowers, blossoms, and blue skies. The first blossoms of the season are the plum blossoms (maehwa) in early March, followed up by the Cherry Blossoms in mid to late March and early April. There are also magnolias, azaleas, forsythia, and lots more.

There are many Korean festivals celebrating spring and Buddha’s Birthday that are held in the national parks and mountains. The most popular festivals are the cherry blossom festivals, including the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, which attracts millions of visitors each year.

What To Watch Out For

Fine dust is the biggest issue in spring. Check the air pollution levels before hiking and bring a mask if you expect it. It won’t stop you hiking, but will often spoil the view.

Crowds can also be an issue, especially during cherry blossom season (late March to early April). If you can hike during the week, it’ll be much quieter than the weekends.

Summer Hiking In Korea

Definitely the toughest season to go hiking in Korea, but one where you can still enjoy getting out and seeing the sights. There are more than just mountains to see and the warm summer nights offer the opportunity for night hiking, particularly in Seoul.

Summer Weather

Hot! It doesn’t get cold during summer unless it rains, which it does a lot during July. This is rainy season, so definitely check the weather forecast and pack appropriately if you’re hiking in summer. Night time is cooler and good for special night hikes.

Best Mountains To Hike

I love Odaesan and Gyeryongsan for summer hiking. They have thick forests that provide shelter from the sun’s heat and aren’t too exposed at the top, protecting you from the sun. 

Geumosan Mountain in Gumi (near Daegu) is a nice hidden gem that has a large waterfall you can walk under and a pool to stay cool. You can ride a cable car up to the mountain top and hike back down.

If you’re in Seoul, hike Namsan Mountain at night or along the Seoul City Fortress Walls.

What You Can See

Greenery. After rainy season, plants and trees have a growth explosion and cover everything. Thick leaves, bushes, and plants are everywhere, along with more wildlife and flowers than in any other season.

What To Watch Out For

The heat. Stock up on water and be prepared to sweat. Also be prepared for mosquitoes. They are out in force during summer and you should wear long sleeves to protect against bites. Summer In Korea is tough, but there are many great places to check out, too.

Autumn Hiking In Korea

My favourite season to go hiking in Korea. Long, warm days. Blue skies. And the many colourful autumn leaves that are on display at this time of year. They all add up to one of the best times to be out in nature and hiking. It’s also the most popular time to go hiking in Korea.

Autumn Weather

Lower air pollution than other seasons, more blue skies, and warm (but not hot). The best weather of the year. There are the occasional typhoons, which can be an issue if you’re hiking on Jeju or along the south coast. However, there aren’t as many as in other countries in East Asia.

Best Mountains To Hike

Seoraksan is the most popular destination during autumn, as well as Jirisan, which has loads of maple trees. Naejangsan is considered one of the most beautiful spots for autumn leaves. 

Daedunsan Mountain near Daejeon also has incredible views, as well as a suspension bridge and stairway between peaks (with a scary view below).

If you want to find oceans of silver grass reeds, head to Mindungsan in Gangwon-do.

Check out this article for details about How To Get To Naejangsan. If you want to know more about the best time to travel in Korea, check out my Guide To October In Korea, which is packed with info about festivals, sights, must-do activities, and lots more.

What You Can See

Korea’s Autumn Leaves. These start in late September and run through to early November. There are also various cultural festivals celebrating the harvest and different locally produced products are on sale, such as chestnuts, persimmons, and jujube.

What To Watch Out For

Typhoons. Although they aren’t common, the strong winds and heavy rains make it very dangerous to go hiking. Also keep an eye out for snakes hiding in the fallen leaves.

Winter Hiking In Korea

The coldest season in Korea is actually still a good one to go hiking. Be prepared, wrap up warm, and you can see some incredible sights, including snow-capped mountain tops, snow flowers, and lots more.

Winter Weather

Cold! From mid-November the temperature plummets and is often below 0 degrees Celsius in January and February. This can bring snowy weather, but not all the time.

Hiking in the mountains gives you the best chance to see snow. It’ll also be a lot colder as you start climbing higher. The weather is generally dry during winter, which is good for hiking. Watch out for ice though.

Best Mountains To Hike

Deogyusan is my favourite mountain for winter hiking. There’s often snow and the connected ski-resort gives you an easy way down the mountain after hiking to the top. Jirisan also has great winter views.

If you want to experience snowy mountain views, head to Taebaeksan, it’s famous for its winter festival and snowy scenes. You can get a shuttle bus from Seoul during festival time.

Visiting Jeju Island in winter? Then be sure to try winter hiking on Hallasan for incredible snowy sights.

What You Can See

Snow! In the highest mountains (Seoraksan, Jirisan, Deogyusan, Hallasan), there’s a much better chance of seeing snow than in the cities. A lot of the big ski resorts are in Gyeonggi Province or Gangwon Province in the northern part of Korea, close to Seoul.

What To Watch Out For

Ice. If you’re hiking, make sure you pack some spikes (crampons) and hiking sticks. Wrap up warm because winter is cold and the mountains are freezing. You’ll warm up as you hike though. It gets dark quickly, too. Be prepared to end your hike around 5pm.

The Best Places To Go Hiking In Korea

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of mountains to choose from if you want to go hiking in Korea. The country is 70% mountainous and knowing which ones are the best ones you should visit can feel a bit overwhelming.

The list below are for the best mountains you can visit from Seoul and then the best mountains you can visit across Korea in case you’re starting from other locations.

Best Mountains To Hike In Seoul

These mountains are all inside Seoul and accessible by public transport

• Bukhansan National Park
• Namsan Mountain (N Seoul Tower)
• Inwangsan Mountain
• Gwanaksan Mountain
• Cheonggyesan Mountain
• Ansan Mountain
• Achasan Mountain

Best Mountains To Hike In Korea

For other parts of Korea, here are some of the best national parks that are typically suitable for all levels.

• Chiaksan National Park
• Seoraksan National Park
• Odaesan National Park
• Jirisan National Park
• Hallasan National Park (Jeju)
• Gyeryongsan National Park
• Songnisan National Park
• Naejangsan National Park

These mountains are some of the Best Mountains To Hike In Korea.

How To Get To The Mountains In Korea

Here are a few tips about how to get to the mountains to start your hiking journey.

By Car

If you have car, then you won’t have many problems getting to the mountains. Look for the national park entrances, there are usually car parks right outside.

Be careful during the busiest times (cherry blossom & autumn leaves season) as traffic can be backed up. Arrive early and leave early to avoid the worst traffic.

By Public Transport

Korea has an amazing bus and train network that goes to the most remote national parks. I don’t own a car and have had to rely on public transport to get to most places.

You’ll need to do some research, and check the routes with Naver / Kakao map apps, as well as Korean bus apps, but it’s certainly possible.

A lot of the major hiking destinations have online guides and you can find out the best way to get there with a quick search. It’s often cheap but be prepared for long journeys. That’s not so bad as you can sleep on the way.

One word of warning: bus drivers in Korea love to turn the heating up to maximum during winter. It’s really, really hot on the bus (way too hot) and you should be prepared to take off most of your winter hiking clothes. The opposite is true in summer when it’s freezing cold with the aircon.

By Taxi

If you travel to nearby towns, getting a taxi is a reasonably priced and convenient option to get to the hiking routes.

For example, if you want to hike Daedunsan near Daejeon or Odaesan near Jinbu, you can get a taxi from these places and be there in 20 – 30 minutes. It’s a lot more convenient as the buses aren’t that frequent.

By Tour Operator

There are a number of great tour operators that provide tours for locals living in Korea or tourists visiting Korea. These can be more expensive than taking public transport, but also get your straight to where you want to go without detours and long waits between connections.

Furthermore, tour operators also provide insights from local guides, extra stops along the way with additional activities you might never get the chance to experience, as well as visiting several famous locations in the same area.

Online tour operators I recommend:

• Klook.com
• Trazy.com

Facebook-based tour companies operating in Korea:

• Seoul Hiking & Nature Group
• Tour 08 Foreigner Tours
• Korea Travel Easy
• WINK Travel

There’s also the option to hire a private driver to take you to various places and guide you around.

I hope these few sections of this guide to hiking in Korea have helped you to figure out when, where, and how to go hiking.

Why Should I Go Hiking In Korea?

Did you know that one translation of ‘Korea’ is ‘land of high mountains and sparkling streams‘? Whenever you go into the Korean countryside, you’re surrounded by mountains and awe-inspiring views. You’ll easily understand why it has that name.

I hope this guide to hiking in Korea has inspired you to get your boots on and go out and experience the incredible scenes you can find all across Korea. In case you’re not convinced about why hiking is a must-do activity in Korea, here are a few more reasons why you should try it:

• It’s great exercise – A day hiking in the mountains can burn hundreds or even thousands of calories and work many different muscles.
• To make friends – There are many social clubs where people go hiking together. It’s a great way to meet new people and find people who like to get out and enjoy nature.
• You’ll see incredible sights – There are incredible scenes waiting to be discovered out there. Waterfalls, friendly squirrels, forested valleys, frozen lakes, snowy peaks, autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, and so much more.
• It’s a cheap day out – Unlike a day at a theme park or visiting expensive attractions, hiking is really cheap. Park entrance fees are a few thousand won and food and snacks don’t cost much at all.
• Chance to see snow – if you’re looking for snowy sights, the mountains during winter are the best places to find them.
• The best Buddhist temples – whilst Seoul has some nice temples, the best ones are all hiding in the national parks. You can even do a temple stay and enjoy hiking in the mountains at the same time

For those living in Korea, I’d recommend joining a hiking Facebook group such as the Seoul Nature & Hiking Group or Hiking In Korea.

Hiking In Korea FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about how to go hiking in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

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A day out hiking is a great way to get some exercise, stretch your legs, and get away from Korea’s concrete jungles. Korea has an abundance of different mountains to choose from, with paths, sights, and breathtaking experiences that are perfect for all levels of hiking ability.

Find out why hiking is one of Korea’s most popular past times, enjoyed by countless people every day, and one of the best way to see stunning views of Korea’s magnificent cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or even snow-capped mountain tops.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What’s In This How To Go Hiking In Korea Guide?

I want to share my 21 top tips to help you go hiking in Korea more easily. This Korean hiking guide includes pre-planning tips, packing tips, tips for dealing with common problems, and how to enjoy the mountains the most. I’ll also share my personal insights to help you hike like a pro.

Later on I’ll cover a bit about the best time to go hiking. I’ll also briefly introduce some of the most popular mountains to hike in Korea and give an overview of the best transportation options for getting to the mountains.

If you’re still not convinced that hiking in Korea is something you should immediately rush out and start trying, there’s a few extra reasons why you should definitely try it at the end.

So why should you trust what I say about hiking in Korea?

I’m a self-confessed hiking addict who has hiked extensively across Korea and other countries, including reaching the Annapurna Base Camp in the Himalayas in Nepal. I’ve been to almost every national park in Korea and dozens of other standalone mountains. I also run a hiking group which organises hiking trips to nearby mountains.

Read on and start your Korean hiking adventure as soon as possible!

The Top 21 Hiking In Korea Tips

Some of these tips will help you when you’re hiking anywhere in the world, others are specific only to Korea. I’ve broken them down into 4 different categories to help you in the various stages of planning and doing a hike, as well as some tips for when it’s over. These are:

Tips 1 – 5:
Essential packing tips for your hike.

Tips 6 – 10:
Pre-hike tips to avoid problems.

Tips 11 – 17:
Tips for when you’re hiking.

Tips 18 – 21:
Post-hike and accommodation tips

Now, without further ado, here are my top 21 tips for an incredible time hiking in Korea:

1: Pack Light – It’ll Make Hiking Easier

There’s nothing worse when you’re hiking than getting tired from hauling around a heavy backpack full of stuff you’re not using. You’ll feel every kilo as you go up the steep steps! Carrying extra goods that you won’t need is going to leave you sweating. Reduce what goes into your backpack as much as possible and leave all non-essentials at home.

I have a separate hiking backpack just for hiking. It’s been stripped of all the everyday stuff we might stick into our bags normally and I only add what I need for a day hike.Buying a decent backpack / day bag will cut out weight as well. A good bag is a worthwhile investment if you want to go hiking in Korea regularly.

Tip: Try to get a good quality hiking backpack that includes side pockets for water bottles and enough space for snacks and other goods. Bags with proper support, waist and chest straps, and a waterproof cover are even better.

I would recommend something like this: Waterproof Hiking Backpack

2: Pack Right – Essential Items For Hiking

Even though you’ll want a light backpack when you hike, there are some essential items that you’ll want to bring whenever you hike.

Besides food and water (I’ll cover them next), here are some essential items that I always bring when I go hiking:

• Tissues – they have many uses and you’ll need them.
• Wet wipes or hand sanitiser – if you want to clean your hands before eating.
• Sweat towel – especially if you’re hiking any time between spring and autumn.
• Hiking sticks – good for tackling stony paths and in wet weather.
• Plastic bag – there are no bins on the mountains, this is for taking rubbish home.
• Emergency snacks – in case you didn’t bring enough food. I usually pack a spare Calorie Balance.
• Insect repellant (summer) – if you’re hiking in summer, you’ll need it.
• Cash – it’s always good to have some money in case you need it.

There are a few other things you’ll want to bring, but I’ll cover those in more details in the next few tips.

Tip: Cash is useful for buying snacks and drinks on the way. There are often small stalls with goods.

3: Bring Food & Water For The Journey

If you’re planning a whole day of hiking, then you’ll want to pack the right food and liquids to keep you going. Staying hydrated is one of the biggest issues when hiking, especially if you’re hiking during the summer.

I generally bring 1 litre of water for a day hike in winter (you don’t sweat as much) and 2 litres for summer. You can switch out a bottle of water for an energy drink like Powerade or Gatorade. Coke and other fizzy drinks won’t help you – leave them at home.

For food and snacks, I usually pack a mixture of:

• Fruit – Bananas, apples, oranges, persimmon, etc.
• Veg – Tomatoes, carrots, dried sweet potato, etc.
• Nuts – small bag per person.
• Cereal bar – for when you need something sweet.
• Gimbap – perfect for lunch and sold in most national parks. Avoid seafood/mayo.
• Sandwich – same with gimbap, good for lunch mid-hike.
• Crisps / Choc – sometimes you need something yummy.

The picture above is an example of what I usually bring on a hike. There are restaurants in the starting areas in national parks where you can fill up after a hike. Remember, try to pack light and avoid over-packing with food.

Tip: If you want to become a true Korean hiker, bring a bottle of soju to drink at the top. Share it with others that you meet so you don’t get drunk and roll down the mountain though!

4: Don’t Forget About Sun Protection!

This is so important that it deserves its own section. When hiking in Korea’s many high, open mountains, it’s quite easy to get exposed to a lot of sunshine and get burnt without noticing it.

As someone with no natural defence from the sun on the top of my head, I can speak with great experience about how important it is to protect yourself from the sun.

Remember to always bring:

• Sunglasses – this is even more important if you’re hiking in winter with snow on the mountains.
• Sun cream – slap it on before you hike and after you eat lunch.
• Sun hat – not essential, but will help keep out the sun and also protect from mosquitoes.

I usually apply sun cream before hiking and also when I’m at the peak, which is where you’ll be the most exposed. Even if it’s not that sunny, it’s still good to be protected from the sun.

5: Dress Appropriately For The Hike

The first thing you’ll notice when hiking in Korea is the vast array of bright, almost luminous clothing the locals are bedecked in. Fortunately, this isn’t essential to have a good time hiking. However, wearing the right kind of clothes in each season is going to make hiking a lot more comfortable.

Here’s what I’d recommend for each season:

Spring & Autumn:

Top: Light top. Jacket you can store in your bag.
Legs: Light trousers to protect from insects.
Feet: Regular hiking socks.

Summer:

Top: Long-sleeved thin hiking or cotton t-shirt.
Legs: Long shorts or trousers to protect against mosquitoes.
Feet: Ankle socks.

Winter:

Top: Layers that you can remove easily. Jacket with wind protection, thin fleece.
Legs: Thick or lined trousers (with leggings if really cold).
Feet: Woollen hiking socks.

Tip: A decent pair of hiking boots is the best investment you can make when hiking. I use the same pair all year round and they keep my feet and ankles safe and protected from injury. They also help me in bad weather conditions.

These are the hiking boots I use North Face Men’s Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

6: Plan Your Route Before You Leave

Korea has a vast network of hiking trails that criss-cross national parks and standalone mountains across the country. Choosing the right route for you should be the first step when planning to hike.

Do you want to hike for a half day or full day? Do you plan to stay overnight somewhere and continue hiking the next day? Do you want to start and finish in the same or different place? Knowing the answers to these questions before you leave helps to avoid problems later on.

Tip: There are loads of routes listed on the KNPS Website for each national park in Korea. You can easily find one that suits your ability, time, and plans.

7: Check For Trail Closures

There’s nothing worse than planning a day’s hike and turning up early in the morning to find the route is closed. It’s happened to me before and it sucks. If you’re lucky, there are alternative routes nearby that are open, but sometimes there aren’t.

Trail closures are most common during autumn and winter, when there is a higher risk of fires from the dry weather and fallen autumn leaves. There could also be closures when there’s been a flood or some repair work is going on.

Fortunately, there are usually notifications about when trails will be closed in advance. You can check these on the Korean National Park Services Notice Section.

8: Watch Out For Bad Weather

There’s nothing worse than scaling a 1,500 metre mountain only to end up with views like the one above – clouds and fog blocking your hard-earned view. Unfortunately, that’s one of the risks you take when hiking in Korea.

Whilst there’s not much you can do to control the weather, you can certainly prepare for it and make sure to hike responsibly when it appears. Check weather forecasts during the week before you plan to hike, as well as before you set off.

If there’s any chance of rain, pack an umbrella and waterproof jacket. If it looks like a blizzard (winter) or typhoon (summer) is going to hit, you should probably postpone the hike.

Fortunately, Korea has a lot more sunny days than bad weather days. I don’t know if I can say the same about where I grew up (England).

If you want to know more about which seasons have the best weather, and when you’re more likely to find floods, typhoons, or blizzards, check out my complete Guide To Korea’s Seasons.

9: Keep An Eye On Air Pollution

Another thing you have to watch out for at certain times of the year in Korea is air pollution. This is referred to as ‘fine dust’ in Korea and comes from air pollution generated in Korea and neighbouring countries, as well as yellow dust blown in from deserts in China and Mongolia. Fine dust is generally highest in winter and spring, and not so bad in summer and autumn.

Hiking in fine dust can be a health risk for some people sensitive to air pollution, who might not feel too comfortable when breathing heavily. Fine dust also ruins the view and creates a yellow haze that looks like fog.

I’d recommend checking the fine dust levels (most weather apps include it these days) and if the levels are over 200, postpone the hike for another day. Find out How To Handle Korean Fine Dust.

10: Know How To Get Home

This is a really important thing to consider when you’re hiking, especially if you’re hiking in a remote area with nowhere to stay and relying on public transportation. The last bus from national parks usually leave after the sun has gone down (you can’t hike at night). This is around 6 or 7pm.

When you’re hiking, make sure you have enough time to get back to the bus stop to get home. Also make sure you know when the buses run and where they will leave from.

You can plan routes and check buses through apps like Naver Maps and Kakao Maps. They should show you which buses go to the mountains and when they run.

Tip: If you plan to leave from the same bus stop that you arrived at, take a photo of the departing bus times before you start hiking.

11: Start Early To Avoid The Crowds

The early bird not only catches the worm, they also get to enjoy incredible views before everyone else starts crowding the peak and blocking up the paths.

The weekends are very popular for hiking in Korea and many people will drive to the national parks for a day in nature, enjoying the glorious views and peace that comes from hiking. If you don’t want to be caught up with the crowd, then get out early and avoid the tour buses crammed full of happy hikers.

Not only will it be less busy, it’ll also be cooler (very important in summer), you can reach the peak more quickly, and you’ll have more time to explore other routes or head back down for an early dinner.

And you won’t miss that last bus!

Tip: Get up early, grab a coffee, sleep on the bus, hike before the others. I usually get up around 5:30 – 6:00am during autumn for early morning hikes. Later in winter as the sun rises later on.

12: Take A Picture Of The Hiking Route

As you can see from the picture above, Korean hiking guides are written in both Korean and English (as are most signposts). These signs are great and help you plan your course, work out the optimal route for you, and show you the expected time and distance for each section. You can find these Korean hiking guides at the start of the course and at major junctions along the way.

Unfortunately, they aren’t at every junction and if you aren’t sure which way you’re meant to go, you might end up taking the wrong route. If you have a picture of the map, you can generally figure out where to go though.

Work out which peak you want to head to and follow the signposts for that peak. On the way back, follow the signposts to the starting point.

Tip: The advanced (purple) and expert (black) routes aren’t impossible for novice hikers. They usually mean that these sections are steep or more difficult to hike through. They are usually at the top of the mountain and might involve steep staircases or difficult terrain.

13: Make The Most Of Early Toilets

No guide to hiking in Korea would be complete without discussing this delicate issue – when and where to go to the toilet. Whilst it may be ok for the bears, you’ll probably want to make the most of good toilets while you can.

Korea’s mountains are probably some of the most organised and well equipped that I’ve ever had the pleasure of hiking. The starting areas usually have very modern, even heated, toilets with an ample supply of toilet paper. However, the further up the mountain you go, you really shouldn’t expect such luxuries.

Whilst some mountains may have good services, especially those with Buddhist temples along the route, other ones have rather…crappy toilets. If you’re at the peak, there won’t be any at all.

Do your business before you hike. Not only will it avoid problems later, you’ll also feel fresh and ready for anything! Find out more about using public toilets while hiking with my guide to Korean public toilets. It’s packed with lots of useful information for doing your business in Korea.

Tip: Don’t forget to pack some toilet paper or wet wipes.

14: Take Breaks & Stretch A Lot

A common complaint of novice hikers is the amount of pain and stiffness they feel after a day of hiking. Whilst this is normal when you do something you don’t normally do, it can be mostly avoided by looking after your body when you hike.

Take regular breaks and go at a pace that you’re comfortable with. There are plenty of benches, pagodas, and other rest spots (as pictured) where you can sit down and give your legs a break.

Stretching before and after the hike is great for avoiding pulled or tired muscles. Try to do a range of stretches for your legs, back, and shoulders. Your whole body will get a workout from hiking. I like to stretch a bit when I’m at the peak or whenever I stop for longer than 10 minutes. A few minutes of stretches will save you a lot of pain.

Tip: Hold stretches for 20 seconds before you hike and over 30 seconds after the hike.

15: Follow The Signs & Stick To The Path

Hiking in Korea is very organised and well planned out, which makes it very easy to get around the mountains safely and to plan your hiking adventures. Unfortunately, this also means the trails are very controlled and you’re not allowed to hike off-trail.

This makes sense when you know that there are bears, wild boars, snakes and other animals hiding in the wilds!

The hiking trails are really well laid out and will tell you exactly where to go and how long it’ll take. I’d recommend following them and not trying to find your own way. There are reports of people getting lost in the mountains and never being found again – don’t be one of those people.

Some areas are also reserved for the military or have other, unknown dangers (landslides, rockfalls etc.). If you follow the Korean hiking guide signs, you’ll be fine.

16: Take Your Trash Home With You

When you enter one of Korea’s many national parks, you’ll see the motto “our nature, our future”.

Koreans have a respect for nature and the health of their mountains and national parks, with some being holy spots and featuring important Buddhist temples. As such, they know not to ruin the landscape with unwanted wrappers, food waste, cans, bottles, and other garbage.

Please be a responsible hiker when enjoying the wondrous mountain scenes and take your trash home with you. Thanks.

Tip: You usually get a plastic bag when you buy snacks or lunch items. Keep it to carry your trash home.

17: Be Respectful At The Buddhist Temples

Not only should you respect nature when you’re out hiking by taking your trash home, it’s best to mindful of etiquette and cultural rules when you visit Korean Buddhist temples.

You’ll find Buddhist temples at the entrances or inside almost all national parks, and it would be remiss not to mention them in any Korean hiking guide.

A few essential rules you should follow include:

• only enter the temple buildings if signs say you can.
• take your shoes off when entering a temple building.
• try to avoid taking pictures inside temple buildings.
• ask the Buddhist monks before taking their picture.
• be quiet inside the temple grounds

The rules aren’t as strict as you might find in a Thai temple, for example, where you’re expected to cover bare arms and legs.

Knowing some Common Korean Etiquette Rules will go a long way to connecting with Korean culture and understanding unspoken rules of behaviour when in Korea.

18: Stay Overnight At A Pension

Want to make a weekend of it in the mountains and go hiking on both days? Then why not stay overnight at one of the many pensions (guesthouse) that surround the entrances to national parks and popular mountains?

These are cosy places that range from a bedroom to full apartments with views over the majestic mountains and often include BBQ facilities for those who want to cook their own dinner.

I love staying in these places, You get the chance to have two full days of hiking (with a big Korean BBQ after the first day) and you don’t have to worry so much about getting the bus home on the first day.

You can find pensions on hotel booking sites such as Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Agoda.com.

There are also campsites where you can pitch a tent or rent a caravan for the night. Great in summer, but probably best avoided during winter when it gets really cold!

Please note: Some national parks have campsites. These are great places to stay for that authentic outdoors experience. However, camping outside of the campsites is generally illegal.

19: Book A Lodge For Sunrise Hikes

One of the best hiking experiences you can find in Korea is waking up near the top of the tallest mountains and setting off to watch the sunrise from the peak. See the sun rising up from the east, illuminating the peaks and spreading light to the valleys and lands below. It’s a truly breathtaking sight.

At the following national parks you can rent a shelter or cabin high up in the mountains to do just that:

• Seoraksan National Park
• Jirisan National Park
• Deogyusan National Park

The simple shelters provide somewhere to sleep and prepare meals (most people eat ramyeon). They are heated, but you’ll need to bring your own cooking supplies and bedding. Some food might be available in the shelters, depending on which one you go to.

If you want to book a shelter to see the sunrise, you’ll need to book 15 days in advance. Find out How To Book An Overnight Shelter.

Tip: Everyone is crowded into two large rooms (split by gender) and it can be noisy. Bring ear plugs to block out the noise of others sleeping.

20: Buy A Souvenir Towel

Did you know that every national park in Korea has its own unique souvenir towel with a map of the hiking routes on it?

These are great collectable items that come in a range of bright colours and are very useful in different situations. They work well as a backup map, a sweat towel, something to wrap up your snacks in, and more.

You can find these towels at the gift shops and stores at the entrances to national parks. They’re usually hanging up outside the shop.

Tip: There are 17 national parks in Korea. Why not try to collect a towel from each one?

21: Finish With Amazing Korean Dishes

The last tip on my Korean hiking guide is the one I always follow at the end of a long hike – resting and recharging with a delicious meal at one of the restaurants in the national parks.

You’ll find incredible food, often with locally-sourced ingredients and regional specials. The most popular food after hiking is pajeon (Korean pancake, pictured above) or Korean BBQ. Other popular dishes include bibimbap (mixed rice with veg), acorn jelly salad, and tofu stew.

Of course, you should wash it down with a bowl of creamy makgeolli (rice wine), beer, or soju. After a hard day of hiking, you deserve to put your feet up and enjoy something delicious!

Eating pajeon and drinking makgeolli after an enjoyable hike is so good, I’ve included it as one of my top Unique Korean Experiences that you must try when you visit Korea.

Tip: If you want to drink makgeolli, try to find out what the local variety is. It’s a great way to experience flavours you wouldn’t normally find in other parts of Korea. If you’re near Daejeon, try the local chestnut makgeolli – it’s my favourite!

Why Should I Go Hiking In Korea?

I hope this guide to hiking in Korea has inspired you to get your boots on and go out and experience the incredible scenes you can find all across Korea. In case you’re not convinced about why hiking is a must-do activity in Korea, here are a few more reasons why you should try it:

• It’s great exercise – A day hiking in the mountains can burn hundreds or even thousands of calories and work many different muscles.
• To make friends – There are many social clubs where people go hiking together. It’s a great way to meet new people and find people who like to get out and enjoy nature.
• You’ll see incredible sights – There are incredible scenes waiting to be discovered out there. Waterfalls, friendly squirrels, forested valleys, frozen lakes, snowy peaks, autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, and so much more.
• It’s a cheap day out – Unlike a day at a theme park or visiting expensive attractions, hiking is really cheap. Park entrance fees are a few thousand won and food and snacks don’t cost much at all.
• Chance to see snow – if you’re looking for snowy sights, the mountains during winter are the best places to find them.
• The best Buddhist temples – whilst Seoul has some nice temples, the best ones are all hiding in the national parks. You can even do a temple stay and enjoy hiking in the mountains at the same time

For those living in Korea, I’d recommend joining a hiking Facebook group such as the Seoul Nature & Hiking Group or Hiking In Korea. For those near Daejeon, there’s also the Daejeon Hiking Group (which I manage).

Did you know that one translation of ‘Korea’ is ‘land of high mountains and sparkling streams‘? Whenever you go into the Korean countryside, you’re surrounded by mountains and awe-inspiring views. You’ll easily understand why it has that name.

Wherever you go hiking in Korea, don’t forget to take some photos. You’ll see stunning views, sweeping vistas, and incredible foliage. Check out this article for some interesting hiking captions and quotes for instagram to share the perfect story.

Seasonal Korean Hiking Guide

The best seasons for hiking in Korea are definitely spring and autumn, which both feature warm, sunny days and clears skies while you hike. Summer and winter are tougher, but also have their own rewards.

You can see many wonderful and unique sights in each season and they all offer very different views and hiking experiences.

I’ve written a really useful article all about Hiking In Each Of Korea’s Unique Seasons, as well as a complete Guide To Korea’s Seasons which explains a lot more about the very different weather you can expect throughout the year.

Finally, if you want some general tips for hiking anywhere in the world, be sure to check out these 17 Hiking Tips For Beginners and for travellers to Ireland, here’s some Tips for Backpacking Ireland.

The Best Places To Go Hiking In Korea

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of mountains to choose from if you want to go hiking in Korea. The country is 70% mountainous and knowing which ones are the best ones you should visit can feel a bit overwhelming.

The list below are for the best mountains you can visit from Seoul and then the best mountains you can visit across Korea in case you’re starting from other locations.

Best Mountains To Hike In Seoul:

These mountains are all inside Seoul and accessible by public transport

• Bukhansan National Park
• Namsan Mountain (N Seoul Tower)
• Inwangsan Mountain
• Gwanaksan Mountain
• Cheonggyesan Mountain
• Ansan Mountain
• Achasan Mountain

Find out more about the Best Mountains To Hike In Seoul from Seoulinspired. If you want to hike in Seoul, check out my guide about how to hike in Bukhansan National Park.

Best Mountains To Hike In Korea:

For other parts of Korea, here are some of the best national parks that are typically suitable for all levels.

• Seoraksan National Park
• Odaesan National Park
• Jirisan National Park
• Hallasan National Park (Jeju)
• Gyeryongsan National Park
• Songnisan National Park
• Naejangsan National Park

Find out more about the Best Mountains To Hike In Korea and a detailed guide about How To Get To Naejangsan National Park and why you should hike there this autumn.

How To Get To The Mountains In Korea

Here are a few tips about how to get to the mountains to start your hiking journey.

By Car

If you have car, then you won’t have many problems getting to the mountains. Look for the national park entrances, there are usually car parks right outside. Be careful during the busiest times (Cherry Blossom & Autumn Leaves season) as traffic can be backed up. Arrive early and leave early to avoid the worst traffic.

By Public Transport

Korea has an amazing bus and train network that goes to the most remote national parks. I don’t own a car and have had to rely on public transport to get to most places. You’ll need to do some research, and check the routes with Naver / Kakao map apps, as well as Korean bus apps, but it’s certainly possible.

A lot of the major hiking destinations have online guides and you can find out the best way to get there with a quick search. It’s often cheap but be prepared for long journeys. That’s not so bad as you can sleep on the way.

By Taxi

If you travel to nearby towns, getting a taxi is a reasonably priced and convenient option to get to the hiking routes.

For example, if you want to hike Daedunsan near Daejeon or Odaesan near Jinbu, you can get a taxi from these places and be there in 20 – 30 minutes. It’s a lot more convenient as the buses aren’t that frequent.

By Tour Operator

There are a number of great tour operators that provide tours for locals living in Korea or tourists visiting Korea. These can be more expensive than taking public transport, but also get your straight to where you want to go without detours and long waits between connections.

Furthermore, tour operators also provide insights from local guides, extra stops along the way with additional activities you might never get the chance to experience, as well as visiting several famous locations in the same area.

Recommended Online Tour Operators

• Klook.com
• Trazy.com
• Get Your Guide

Facebook-Based Tour Companies

• Seoul Hiking & Nature Group
• Tour 08 Foreigner Tours
• Korea Travel Easy
• WINK Travel

There’s also the option to hire a private driver to take you to various places and guide you around.

Hiking In Korea FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about hiking in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

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