Hiking the Seoraksan Mountain in Korea

South Korea is not just about bustling cities and K-pop; it's also home to some of the most beautiful and thrilling hiking trails. One of the most iconic is Seoraksan Mountain, the third highest mountain in South Korea. The mountain's picturesque landscape and challenging trails make it a must-visit for any adventurer.

Discover the Seoraksan Mountain

Seoraksan Mountain, located in the Gangwon Province in eastern South Korea, is a part of Seoraksan National Park. The park is recognized as a Biosphere Protection Site by UNESCO, giving you a hint of the natural beauty waiting to be explored.

The Allure of Seoraksan Mountain

What's so special about Seoraksan Mountain, you ask? Well, it's not just any mountain; it's the third highest peak in South Korea, standing proudly at 5,604 feet (1,708 meters). But its height is just one facet of its charm. With its diverse flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes, and fascinating history, Seoraksan Mountain is a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.

Elananna, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Journey Begins: Getting to Seoraksan

Ready to embark on your adventure? First things first: getting there. Seoraksan National Park, home to the mountain, is easily accessible from Seoul by bus or car, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. If you're not a local, don't worry! There's a range of accommodation options nearby, from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses.

Hiking the Ulsanbawi Rock Trail

Starting from the Sinheungsa Temple, a mere ten-minute walk from the Seoraksan Visitor Centre, the Ulsanbawi Rock trail takes you through a journey that's as spiritual as it is physically exhilarating. Established in the 7th century, the Sinheungsa Temple is a serene haven that houses a massive bronze Buddha statue, numerous smaller statues, and a stone pagoda. The spiritual atmosphere of the temple is a soothing prelude to the more strenuous leg of the journey.

kallerna, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

From the temple, you proceed along the temple wall until you reach Naewonam Hermitage. From there, the path to the iconic Ulsan Rock awaits you. But what's Ulsan Rock? Well, it's not just one peak but six sharp peaks that present a formidable yet intriguing challenge to climbers.

The Yangpok Course: An Immersion in Nature's Best

Do you want to feast your eyes on some of the most beautiful sites Seoraksan Mountain has to offer? Then the Yangpok Course is just for you! The trail begins from Mt Seoraksan National Park’s main visitor center, guiding you to enchanting sights such as the Iljumun Gate and Biseondae.

Christophe95, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

But the journey doesn't stop there. You have two Seoraksan hiking trails to choose from, each offering different difficulty levels. As you venture further, the trail unveils the picturesque Yangpok Shelter and the mesmerizing Yangpokpo Falls. And guess what? The breathtaking Oryeon Falls is also visible from this route.

Geumganggul Cave: A Journey to a Sacred Place

The trail to Geumganggul Cave starts similarly to the Yangpok Course, but with a delightful twist. After reaching Biseondae, you turn left towards Geumganggul Cave, a place of prayer in the past, as the sitting Buddha statue within testifies.

Sohyeon Bak, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The journey to the cave is as enchanting as the destination itself. You'll navigate steep steps and cross bridges, all while being 600 meters above sea level. And the best part? The full hike takes about two hours, making it perfect for those who want a short yet satisfying adventure.

Osaek Course: The Fast Track to Daecheongbong Peak

Do you have a car and a few hours to spare? The Osaek Course is your best bet! This trail starts from Osaek Ranger Station in South Seoraksan, taking you through a 5.3km walk (a little more than 3 hours) to Daecheongbong Peak. The only significant feature along the way is the captivating Seorak Pokpo Falls, but the view from the peak is worth the journey.

Olga Lipunova, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overnight Hikes: The Ultimate Seoraksan Adventure

For the true adventurer, a day hike might not be enough. If you're longing for the stars above and the mountain air around you as you sleep, Seoraksan offers overnight hikes that you'll remember for a lifetime.

Daecheongbong Peak via Baekdam

Starting from the Baekdamsa Temple, this 23.9km trek offers a variety of sights before you reach Daecheongbong Peak, the highest peak of Seoraksan. You'll pass through Bongjeongam and spend the night at Hoeh-un-gak Shelter(희운각), nestled comfortably in the mountain's embrace.

Heoh-un-gak, Reservation Center KNPS

Heoh-un-gak, Reservation Center KNPS

Remember, this trail takes about 13 hours to complete if you don't stop frequently, which means photographers and nature lovers may take a bit longer to soak in all the beauty. The trail concludes with a descent to Biseondae and a return to Sogongwon, the Outer Seorak tourist information center.

Daecheongbong Peak via Hangyeryeong

Offering a slightly different approach to Daecheongbong Peak, this 19.3km, half-day hike starts at Hangyeryeong Hiking Support Center. From there, you continue straight up to Daecheongbong Peak, spend the night at Hoeh-un-gak Shelter, and then descend back to Biseondae and the Sogongwon Information Centre. The raw beauty of nature encountered in this trail is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Daecheongbong Peak via Seorakdong

Starting from the significant tourist information center (Sogongwon), this 16km long trail leads you to Biseondae and Hoeh-un-gak Shelter for an overnight stay. The next day is a thrilling hike all the way to the summit and then a relaxing stop at Seorak Falls before finishing the path at Osaek. What's the cherry on top? There are nearby hot springs where you can soothe your aching muscles after a long, satisfying hike.

Gongnyong Ridge

This trail begins at Biseondae and takes you towards Madeungnyeong Intersection. This path is slightly longer than the previous ones, stretching to 19.1 km, and takes about 15 hours to complete. As you tread along Gongnyong Ridge, you'll be treated to breathtaking views that make the long journey worth every step.

Conclusion: Your Ticket to Adventure

Seoraksan Mountain, with its varied and magnificent trails, is a hiker's dream come true. Whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely walk or an experienced hiker searching for a challenge, Seoraksan has something to offer everyone. Its diverse courses - from the Ulsanbawi Rock trail to the Gongnyong Ridge - ensure a unique and enriching experience for every adventurer.

So, why wait? Lace up your boots, pack your gear, and set off on a journey that promises exhilaration, peace, and the unmatched beauty of nature. And remember, as much as it is about reaching the peak, it's also about the journey. Every step you take, every sight you behold, every breath you take in the clean mountain air - these are the moments that make the hike worthwhile.

Don't just take our word for it. Go ahead and carve your path through Seoraksan's majestic landscapes, and create memories that you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to hike Seoraksan Mountain?

   The best time to hike Seoraksan Mountain is during the autumn season when the leaves change color, offering breathtaking views. However, Seoraksan is beautiful all year round, with each season offering a unique experience.

2. How difficult are the hikes on Seoraksan Mountain?

   The difficulty of the hikes varies depending on the trail. Some trails are relatively easy and suitable for beginners, while others are more challenging and better suited for experienced hikers.

3. Is it safe to hike Seoraksan Mountain alone?

   While it's possible to hike alone, it's always safer to hike with a companion or a group, especially on the more difficult trails. Always let someone know your hiking plans before you leave.

4. What should I bring on a hike to Seoraksan Mountain?

   Essentials for a hike include comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and a map of the hiking trails. Remember to pack according to the season and weather conditions.

5. Are there any facilities available on Seoraksan Mountain?

   Yes, there are various facilities available, including a visitor center, restrooms, and shelters for overnight hikes. Some trails also pass by temples and other cultural sites.

Seoraksan Mountain is not just a hiking destination; it's a place where you can connect with nature, challenge your limits, and find peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here's to your next adventure in the heart of Korea's natural beauty.

If Seoraksan Mountain is on your South Korea bucket list, and it certainly should be, I've got a couple of websites you'll want to keep handy.

The first one is the official Korean National Park Service website (https://www.knps.or.kr/portal/main.do). Whether you're a nature buff or simply looking for practical info for your visit, this site is the place to start.

Now, for those of you who are looking to lace up your boots and hit the mountain trails, this next one's for you. The Korean National Park Service (https://reservation.knps.or.kr/foreigner/main.do) is the spot to book shelters on the mountain.