Replete with natural beauty, historic sights, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Korea’s national parks are waiting for you to discover their charms. Whether visiting for spring splendour, summer shade, autumn foliage sights, or snowy winter fun, there’s a national park in Korea you’re sure to fall in love with.

Find out which are the best national parks in Korea to visit (there are 22 to choose from), what to see and do in each one, and why you simply must visit these areas of outstanding beauty. Be prepared to discover ancient temples where you can join a temple stay, stunning natural wonders such as waterfalls and rock formations, sweeping vistas from lofty peaks, and delicious traditional Korean dishes.

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Why Visit Korea’s National Parks?

Korea is a nature-lover’s paradise, with dozens of stunning national parks combining forests, mountains, streams, waterfalls, Buddhist temples and sometimes even coastal scenery. From the otherworldly lava tubes of Hallasan National Park to the iconic Mt. Seoraksan with its autumn foliage, Korea’s national parks offer incredible hiking, photo ops, and serene natural escapes.

Whether you’re looking for challenging all-day treks or easygoing trails the whole family can enjoy a day out at a Korean national park. Some of Korea’s national parks even have cable cars to whisk you straight up to the best views around. And the best part? Several of these wilderness gems are just a short distance from Seoul, making them easy weekend getaway destinations.

Here are 10 of the top national parks in Korea that should be on any nature-enthusiast’s bucket list. I’ve covered the highlights and main attractions of each as well as travel tips like the best times to visit and top activities. Read on for your definitive guide to seeing the best national parks in Korea.

Here are 5 great reasons you should visit a Korean national park:

Which National Park Should You Visit In Korea?

If you are looking for a certain experience when you visit a Korean national park, such as autumn foliage, hiking, snowy peaks, or traditional food, then check out the table below. It shows you some of the best options for various activities and sights and which park best suits those needs. Of course, most parks will offer seasonal views like cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and snow.

The 10 Best National Parks In Korea

Here are the top 10 best national parks in Korea, based on my own travels around Korea, reports from other hikers, and national parks that are really popular with locals and tourists alike. I hope you visit at least one, if not all of them. They each have something unique to offer and I’ve enjoyed visiting each.

1: Jirisan National Park

Why visit Jirisan: Jirisan is Korea’s largest national park and home to the mainland’s highest peak, as well as some of Korea’s last Asiatic black bears. This national park offers something for everyone, with multi-day hiking trails through the mountains or gentle day-treks around the foothills and through green valleys. Wander through old villages where people live a simpler life than in Seoul.

This national park is one of the only places that offers mountain lodges where you can stay overnight to watch the sunrise over the sprawling mountains below. Jirisan has many farms and maple trees, making it one of the best places to see harvest goods and autumn foliage in September and October. There’s never a bad time to visit Jirisan as there’s something to see and do in each season.

You should visit this national park if you want to see the Korean countryside, walk past rice fields and farms, and witness Korea’s natural beauty.

Best hiking trail: The best hiking route in Jirisan National Park is the Jungsanri to Cheonwangbong Loop, which will take you to the highest peak in the park. This route can be done in a day, but it’s very tough and I recommend booking a lodge to stay overnight. Staying overnight allows you to see the sunrise from the peak, which is absolutely incredible.

How to get to Jirisan: Jirisan National Park isn’t close to Seoul. If you want to visit, it would be best to travel by bus or car from Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju, or one of the other cities in southern Korea. Nearby towns to stay in with access to the park include Namwon, Gurye, and Hadong.

2: Seoraksan National Park

Why visit Seoraksan: Located near Korea’s east coast, Seoraksan National Park hosts towering mountain peaks and sweeping valleys smothered in foliage views each autumn. As one of Korea’s most beloved natural escapes with peak panoramas, it attracts over 5 million visitors annually. Even if you don’t climb to the peaks, you can spend hours exploring the temples and valleys of Seoraksan.

Popular with both hikers and day travellers, Seoraksan caters to all thanks to attractions like Sinheungsa Temple and the Seoraksan cable car, which will take you to the peak without the need to hike. If you do want to hike, there are many suitable courses, including the short trip to Ulsanbawi Peak and overnight hiking options with shelters to stay in. There are also many waterfalls to see.

You should visit this national park if you want to see what Korea’s national parks have to offer all in one place, including Buddhist temples, seasonal views, and rocky peaks. A day trip from Seoul will allow you to see the sights of Seoraksan without any hiking gear or travel troubles.

Best hiking trail: One of the most popular trails is the short route up to Ulsanbawi Peak, which starts at the eastern entrance and passes by Sinheungsa Temple. It’s not the highest peak, but offers views over the valleys and peaks of Seoraksan with a rocky area to discover at the top. Alternatively, the Biseondae Rock trail is perfect for beginner level hikers and follows the valley paths.

How to get to Seoraksan: Seoraksan is 2.5 hours away from Seoul by car or bus. Tours from Seoul will take you to the main entrance of the park and guide you around the top spots, too. The nearest city to Seoraksan is Sokcho and this is a nice place to stay for a weekend of hiking and beach fun.

Find out how to get to Seoraksan, what there is to see and do, where to stay, and lots more essential info in my detailed guide to visiting Seoraksan National Park.

3: Hallasan National Park

Why visit Hallasan: Dominating the centre of Jeju Island, Hallasan National Park is famous for offering the only place to hike to the top of a (technically) active volcano in Korea. Although the crater is filled in at the top, leaving a dome that fills with water during summer, the views from the almost 2km high peak allow you to see the whole of Jeju and the rugged coastline stretching out all around.

If you visit Jeju Island during winter, you can see the snow-capped peak while you’re sitting on a sandy beach and, even if it’s clear and calm on the shore, there can be knee-deep snow covering the whole of the national park. This national park only has one peak, but it’s one of the most impressive. You can also see many ‘oreums’ – hardened hills of lava deposits leftover from previous eruptions.

You should visit this national park if you want to stand on the highest point in South Korea and gaze out at the shore in all directions from a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park offers easier hiking trails that lead up slowly and steadily, making them more accessible.

Best hiking trail: The Seongpanak Trail that leads to the peak of Hallasan is definitely the best hiking trail to follow if you want a full-day hike that’s not too steep. The long, slow trek to the top rewards you with views across the whole island. Alternatively, take the Yeongsil Trail for an easier, shorter hike that will show you Jeju’s west coast.

How to get to Hallasan: For the Seongpanak Trail start point, take bus #281 or #181 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Seogwipo) for 40 minutes. For the Yeongsil Trail start point, take bus #240 from Jeju City Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Jungmun) for 50 minutes. Get off at the Yeongsil Ticket Office and follow the path to the trail entrance for 2.5km.

Find out how to hike Hallasan during winter, including how to make a reservation, how to get to the park, and lots of other travel tips for surviving this snowy hike in my detailed guide to hiking Hallasan in winter.

4: Bukhansan National Park

Why visit Bukhansan: Bukhansan may be relatively small, but its close proximity to Seoul makes it one of the most visited national parks in Korea (per unit area), according to the Guinness Book of Records. The reason for its popularity is evident when you consider that it offers the chance to escape the bustling city and find peace and harmony in nature with lots of scenic beauty all around.

Bukhansan National Park offers a range of hiking trails, including the breathtaking Baegundae Peak, which can be completed in a few hours, or combined for a full day out in nature. Besides hiking trails, there are traditional restaurants near the park’s entrances, Buddhist temples, and the Bukhansan fortress walls to see. This is one of my favourite places to see autumn foliage near Seoul.

You should visit this national park if you want to hike in a Korean national park while visiting Seoul and see the city from a new perspective. Bukhansan offers the best chance to experience temples and traditional food with mountain views close to the capital.

Best hiking trail: If you want to see just how big Seoul is, take the hike to Baegundae Peak, the park’s highest peak. Although it’s relatively small compared to the peaks of other national parks, you’ll be left speechless (and breathless) when you scale the rocky slabs to gaze out in all directions.

How to get to Bukhansan: For the hike to Baegundae Peak, take the subway to Gupabal Station (구파발역) on Line 3, go out Exit 1 and take bus 34, 704, or 8774 to the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance stop.

Find out how to hike Baegundae Peak, including how to get there, which courses to follow, and lots of other hiking tips for Bukhansan in my detailed guide about how to hike Baegundae Peak.

5: Gyeryongsan National Park

Why visit Gyeryongsan: This small national park close to Daejeon doesn’t have the tall peaks you’ll find in Seoraksan or Jirisan, but it has many other charms that make it worth visiting. The main hiking courses take you to one of two peaks (or both in a loop), passing by unique sights like twin pagodas, a long waterfall, and a rest spot half way up that looks out over the green valleys below.

This national park has a good selection of cafes to visit, where you can grab a cake and coffee and stare out at the small mountains surrounding you. I spend many weekends in Gyeryongsan – hiking in the morning and taking in the views from a cafe in the afternoon – especially in spring as this is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms near Daejeon, although I hike here year round.

You should visit this national park if you want to see streets lined with cherry blossom trees in early April and pretty hiking trails all year round. Not the most impressive park, but a peaceful one that has something for everyone and plenty of places to try traditional Korean dishes, including haemul pajeon.

Best hiking trail: If you want a short hike, take the slow path to Sambulbong Peak, which passes by the Nammaetap twin pagodas. You can reach the peak in a couple of hours and then turn around or continue on to Gwaneumbong Peak by following the ridge. This extension will lead you round to Donghaksa Temple and takes about 5-6 hours to complete. Bring some lunch with you.

How to get to Gyeryongsan: From Seoul, travel to Daejeon on the KTX, then take bus #107 from Daejeon Station all the way to the Donghaksa Temple stop, which is the main entrance of the park and the final stop for the bus.

6: Naejangsan National Park

Why visit Naejangsan: Famed as one of the best spots to see autumn leaves in Korea, Naejangsan is a splendid place to immerse yourself in Korea’s natural beauty. At the entrance of the park is the colourful Maple Tree Tunnel, which leads you to a wide central area with a cable car and traditional restaurants and the historic Naejangsa Temple. The park is easy to explore for all visitors.

Naejangsan has been listed as one of the top 10 most beautiful places in Korea and is home to many famous sights, including the Yeonjabong Peak Observatory (accessed by cable car), Naejangsa Temple area, and the Uhwajeong Pavilion. The Uhwajeong Pavilion, which reflects beautifully in the surrounding lake, is considered an iconic sight to see in Korea, especially in autumn.

You should visit this national park if you want to see some of the most beautiful autumn foliage sights in Korea in early November. This park is worth visiting in other seasons and has many attractions to see and isn’t as crowded as parks like Bukhansan or Seoraksan.

Best hiking trail: One of the most popular routes is the Naejangsan outer loop, which follows the peaks around the central area of the park. If you want a shorter hike, head to Sinseonbong Peak, the park’s highest peak. The trail starts near Naejangsa Temple, but you can take a shortcut by taking the cable car. This route isn’t too long, but it’s quite tough in places, especially near the peak.

How to get to Naejangsan: Take the KTX from Yongsan Station to Jeong-eup Station, then take a local bus to Naejangsan National Park. Naejangsan is quite far south, so it might be better to include it if you visit Gwangju, Jeonju, or Daejeon. There should be tours that will take you directly there from Seoul during autumn.

Find out all there is to see and do in Naejangsan National Park in fall, including how to get there, what to eat, and what to see, in my guide to visiting Naejangsan for autumn foliage.

7: Deogyusan National Park

Why visit Deogyusan: This is one of my favourite national parks in Korea for winter hiking because the main trail to Hyangjeokbong Peak has so many beautiful sights. It starts following the river along a valley, before climbing to a hidden temple in the mountains, then a steep ascent into the heavens with open views at the peak. But the wonders continue with a beautiful pagoda just past the peak.

The big advantage of Deogyusan National Park over other national parks, especially in winter, is that it connects to Muju Ski Resort. You can hike up in the morning and ride down to the ski resort for a late lunch of ramyeon and hot coffee. The 1,614 metre high peak is accessible even to those who don’t want to hike, so you can embrace the long vistas with or without a morning of hiking behind you.

You should visit this national park if you want to see incredible snow scenes in winter or picturesque foliage in other seasons. The cable car from Muju ski resorts allows you to experience the heights without the hassle of hiking. Autumn is another incredible time to visit this national park.

Best Hiking Trails: The Gucheondong Valley trail going to Hyangjeokbong Peak, is one of the best hiking trails in this park. This course is actually quite gentle for the first 6km, walking along the valley on the way to Baekyeonsa Temple. After that there’s 1.5km of tough but rewarding hiking to the peak, followed by a cable car ride to Muju Ski Resort where you can get a bus home.

How to get to Deogyusan: I wouldn’t recommend travelling to Deogyusan from Seoul. You can access Deogyusan from Daejeon, Muju, and other nearby cities. Buses run from Daejeon to Gucheondong Valley from Daejeon Bokhap Terminal. There’s a free shuttle bus from the Muju Ski Resort to the town of Muju. From Muju, you can take buses to Daejeon, Seoul, and other cities in Korea.

8: Chiaksan National Park

Why visit Chiaksan: This national park near Seoul has some medium-sized mountains that don’t compare in size to the lofty peaks of Jirisan or Seoraksan, but offer a serious challenge to hikers eager to explore its forested paths. Chiaksan is blessed with many steep valleys and thick forests, offering some truly stunning views, including some interesting granite rock formations and waterfalls.

This national park caters more to hiking enthusiasts than day-trippers looking to see some sights, however, there is still plenty to see if you’re willing to put in the effort. Brave hikers will be rewarded with sights such as Taejongdae Rock, Guryongsa Temple, and the lovely Seryeom Waterfall. You don’t need to be super fit to hike here, but definitely be prepared to sweat a bit.

Fun fact: Chiaksan is one of the toughest national parks to hike in Korea. Korean peaks with ‘ak’ in them (including Wor-ak-san & Seor-ak-san) indicate they are difficult, although the mountains use different Hanja (Chinese characters), so it’s hard to tell just how true that is. Another translation of the ‘ak’ Hanja in Chi-ak-san (岳) is ‘parents-in-law’, something people might also describe as tough!

You should visit this national park if you want a tough, challenging hike in a forested national park and enjoy seeing unique geology and peaks. If you’re prepared to sweat a bit, you’ll definitely love the hikes here, although there are shorter trails available, too.

Best hiking trail: The path to Birobong Peak, the highest point in the park, is one of the most popular trails, offering challenging terrain and rewarding views. This path starts at the Guryong Information Centre and after a gentle start gets up to ‘expert level’. For a less strenuous hike, the Guryongsa Temple trail provides a scenic walk through the park’s forests, leading to one of its cultural landmarks.

How to get to Chiaksan: Take bus #21, #41, or #82 bound from Guryongsa Temple / Chiaksan National Park from Wonju Bus Terminal. If you’re travelling from Seoul, take an intercity bus to Wonju Bus Terminal, or the train from Cheongnyangni Station to Wonju Station.

9: Mudeungsan National Park

Why visit Mudeungsan: Located close to Gwangju City in southern Korea, this is one of the newest and smallest national parks in Korea, but is still full of charm. Fans of geology will love the hexagonal rock formations near Seoseokdae Peak, formed from ancient volcanic activity, as well as the sheer rock faces that spring up out of the ground and look like they’ve been dropped by giants.

This park has lots of natural and cultural wonders to explore, including the spectacular Jeungsimsa Temple, home to picturesque autumn scenes with giant ginkgo trees covering the temple grounds in a blanket of yellow leaves. Just past this temple is the Dangsan Namu Guardian Tree – a giant tree that protects the local area. At the peak, there’s a nature reserve (Jangbuljae) and more to see.

You should visit this national park if you want to see unique volcanic rocks and a lovely Korean temple surrounded by tall trees. This park’s convenient location next to Gwangju City makes it ideal for anyone travelling to this part of Korea looking for a trip into nature.

Best hiking trail: The path to Seoseokdae Peak from Jeungsimsa Buddhist Temple is one of the best ways to see the main highlights in this compact Korean national park. The route isn’t that tough, slowly winding up roads and rocky paths before coming out to open plains. Follow the signposts all the way to the peak and return the way you came or head north over the peaks (Wonhyo Valley) for more views.

How to get to Mudeungsan: As this park is close to Gwangju, it’s best to travel to Gwangju Station and take a bus from there to the park entrance near Jeungsimsa Temple. There are cafes, restaurants and shops in this area and it’s the best place to start exploring the park from.

10: Songnisan National Park

Why visit Songnisan: This guide to national parks in Korea wouldn’t be complete without this hidden gem. Songnisan is an enchanting national park right in the heart of Korea that is packed with traditional Korean delights. I might be biased as I live near this park and have done a temple stay experience at Beopjusa Temple more than once, but if you visit, I think you’ll agree it’s lovely.

The main entrance to the park is packed with traditional Korean restaurants and local markets selling locally sourced foods, such as daechu (dates), wild mushrooms, and ginseng. Then it opens out into one of the most impressive Buddhist temples found in a national park – Beopjusa Temple. There’s a long walking path through the valley which leads out to various hiking paths in the park.

Giant cherry blossoms: If you want to see some truly impressive cherry blossom sights, then visit Beopjusa Temple near the end of April to see the King cherry blossoms on display. These large, fluffy blossoms (pictured below) are so soft and much larger than usual cherry blossoms. Partnered with the colourful temple buildings, they create some really spectacular scenes.

You should visit this national park if you want to see one of the best Korean Buddhist temples in Korea, a serene lake with turtles sunbathing on logs, Korean restaurants tucked away in the forest with waterfall views, and lots of leafy trees. You don’t need to hike to enjoy all that Songnisan has to offer.

Best hiking trail: The path to Cheonhwangbong Peak that starts from Beopjusa Temple is very rewarding. There are a few ways to get to this peak, which start after a couple of miles trekking along the valley floor following the river. Once you reach a pajeon restaurant by a waterfall, you’ve found the start of the hiking area.

How to get to Songnisan: You can reach Songnisan by bus from Daejeon, Daegu, Busan, and other nearby cities. If you’re in Seoul, take an intercity bus from Seoul’s Nambu or Dong-Seoul bus terminals to Songnisan National Park.

Korean National Parks Near Seoul

There are several national parks near Seoul that you can access for a day hiking in the mountains or relaxing in the valleys. The nearest park is Bukhansan National Park, which is actually part of Seoul and can be accessed by subway and bus in a short time. There are several others that can be reached by bus, train, or car from Seoul in less than a few hours, as detailed below.

Chiaksan National Park – the next closest national park to Seoul is Chiaksan. This park can be accessed by travelling to Wonju City and then taking a local bus to the parks’ entrance.

Seoraksan National Park – this park is easy to access from Seoul with a day tour, or by taking a bus from Seoul to Sokcho City and then changing to a local bus to the park’s entrance.

Odaesan National Park – technically closer to Seoul than Seoraksan, this park isn’t as accessible as Seoraksan but you can drive there or take the KTX train to Jinbu Station and change to a bus or taxi.

There are a few other national parks that are accessible if you have a car, including Woraksan National Park, Taebaeksan National Park, and Sobaeksan National Park, but they’re not convenient if you plan to use public transportation. Another national park near Seoul is Taean Seaside National Park, which is a coastal park rather than a mountain park.

My Favourite National Parks In Korea

I started hiking in Korea’s many national parks since I arrived in 2015, starting in Gyeryongsan National Park, which is close to my home in Daejeon. I’ve visited almost every national park across the country in the years since then, checking out spring blossoms, seeking shade in summer, seeing autumn foliage, and wading through deep snow in winter.

These are the my favourite national parks in Korea (based on my hiking experience in each):

1: Jirisan National Park – This is my favourite national park in Korea because it’s so big and offers so many options. Day treks in the foothills, overnight stays with sunrise hikes, and so much more.

2: Hallasan National Park – The tallest peak in South Korea and an incredible park to see the sights of Jeju Island. I’ve hiked to the peak twice during winter, both times ending up knee-deep in thick snow.

3: Songnisan National Park – One of my favourite parks to show friends and family the true beauty of Korea’s countryside. Impressive valley trails, Buddhist temple (Beopjusa), and local foods.

4: Deogyusan National Park – This park offers a great hike in any season and never fails to impress with its views. At the top of the main peak is a ski resort and a mountaintop pagoda with wide views.

5: Naejangsan National Park – I’ve only visited this park during autumn and it’s on my list solely for the amazing foliage views and attractions in the park, including the iconic Uhwajeong Pavilion.

Popular Mountains To Hike In Korea

With so many awesome national parks to visit in Korea, you’re really spoilt for choice for places to hike, explore, relax in, and photograph. Korea is rich with mountains which are worth visiting when you’re in various parts of the country. Below is a list of 10 of my favourite mountains to hike that aren’t in the national parks I’ve mentioned in this article and mostly aren’t in national parks at all.

Guide To Hiking In Korea’s National Parks

I’ve been hiking regularly in Korea since 2015 and it’s become one of my favourite hobbies. I can’t imagine a month going by without reaching a peak somewhere in Korea! After exploring almost every national park, here are a few essential insights to help you get the most out of your trip. For more tips and trips about hiking Korea’s national parks, check out my essential guide to hiking in Korea.

Here are 10 of my top insights about hiking in Korea’s national parks:

Entrance fees: Access to Korea’s national parks is now free. There used to be a fee payable to temples in the parks, but these have been waived since May 2023

Tough mountains: If you see a national park with ‘ak‘ in the name (e.g. Chi-ak-san, Seor-ak-san), it means the main peak is tough and quite steep. There are still easier courses available though.

Valley trails: Most national parks start with long walking trails before the hiking begins. These are great for all visitors and some valley trails can be as long as 10km with no hiking involved.

Stick to the paths: Korea’s national parks aren’t open for exploration and it is necessary to stick to the paths. There can be wild animals (deer, boar, bears!, snakes, etc.) in the parks and guide fences are there for everyone’s safety.

Signposts: National Parks in Korea are designed for Koreans, but also have many signs in English. There are resources available for non-Korean (English) speaking hikers in the national parks, too.

Toilets: Toilets in Korea are clean and well maintained, even in national parks, but they aren’t available in all locations throughout the parks. You will mostly find toilets at the entrance and towards the end of the walking area in the valley, but further up the mountains, toilets are rare.

Supplies: If you plan to hike in Korea’s national parks, you should bring some supplies with you, such as water (at least 1l), snacks, and tissues. If you start hiking at the main entrance to a national park, you will find shops selling supplies, but if you start in a more remote area, there may not be shops.

Trash: There are no bins on the mountains and people are expected to take everything home with them. Koreans hike with a small plastic bag to store their waste until they get home. Public bins aren’t that common in Korea.

Busy times: Hiking in Korea’s national parks is one of the most popular pastimes in Korea and the hiking trails can get especially busy on weekends, holidays, and during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season. This can affect public transport availability, too.

Souvenirs: You can buy souvenir towels in each national park. These have maps of the hiking routes and are convenient as a map / sweat towel / souvenir. I love to collect one from each park I visit.

When To Hike In Korea’s National Parks

The best time to hike in Korea’s national parks is definitely during autumn, which is from late September to early November. During this time you can see Korea’s incredible autumn foliage spreading out over the mountains and along the valleys. Spring is also very popular as you can see cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, and other spring blooms. Unfortunately, these are also the busiest times.

I love winter hiking for snowy scenes and sunny skies (winter in Korea is very sunny), but it’s not for everyone and you really need to be prepared for the cold weather. If you want to see snow in Korea, visiting a national park is one of the best options as the snow falls more often there than in the city. Summer hiking is tough as it’s very hot, but the shaded valleys with rivers can bring cool relief.

For a more detailed breakdown about the best time to hike and see Korea’s national parks, check out my Korean hiking season guide. It includes details about the best mountains to hike in each season, what to expect and look for, and what each season is like.

What Clothes Do You Need For Hiking?

Once you’ve figured out what time of year you want to visit a Korean 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:

Headwear: a hat is also useful if you plan to hike in Korea’s national parks as you’re exposed to the sun a lot. A light cap is fine from spring to autumn, but a wooly hat is better in winter.

What Equipment Do You Need For Hiking?

Even though you’ll want a light pack when you hike in a national park, 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.

If you only plan to explore the lower areas of the park, you can skip some of these items (hiking poles, first aid kit, hiking boots), but I would still recommend you bring some supplies with you. The Wowpass is a good Korean debit card that’s designed for tourists that you can use across Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about national parks in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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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.

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

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.

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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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