Seoraksan National Park: A Hiker’s Paradise
I have to admit, when I first heard about Seoraksan National Park, I didn’t know what to expect. But let me tell you, after spending a couple of days exploring its trails and soaking in the breathtaking views, it’s firmly cemented its place as one of my favorite places in South Korea.
This stunning national park in the northeast of the country is a true hiker’s paradise, with several spectacular day hikes that can take you to the tops of rocky mountain peaks in just a couple of hours. And if you’re not as big on walking, don’t worry – there’s a cable car that can whisk you up to dramatic vistas without all the effort.
As I discovered, Seoraksan is a delight in any season, but autumn is when it really shines, with a sea of yellow and red leaves blanketing the park. I struggled to find good up-to-date information when I started planning my trip, so I figured it was worth putting together a guide to help others enjoy it just as much as I did.
Getting to Seoraksan National Park
There are a few different options for getting to Seoraksan from Seoul, the capital city. Unless you’re already staying in a nearby city, you’ll likely be starting your journey from Seoul. Public transport is the way to go – there are buses that run every half-hour or so between Seoul and the city of Sokcho, which is the closest major town to the park.
For most people, the Seoul Express terminal is the best option, as there are more buses, they’re a little cheaper, and you’ll arrive at a more convenient terminal in Sokcho. From there, you’ll need to catch a local bus route 7 or 7-1 to the park entrance, which takes around 30 minutes.
Another option is to drive yourself, which takes about two hours on the expressway. Just make sure to check with your rental company about how toll payments work. Alternatively, there are also full-day tour trips from Seoul that include transportation and guide services, which can be a good way to see the highlights without having to worry about the logistics.
When to Visit Seoraksan
The best time to visit Seoraksan really depends on what you’re after. If hiking is your main priority, the spring and autumn months are ideal, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. Spring is particularly lovely, with all the plants in bloom and plenty of wildlife around.
Autumn, on the other hand, is when the park really shines, with those stunning fall colors. But it also means it can get extremely busy, especially on weekends, with buses and accommodation often full. So if you’re visiting during this peak season, I’d recommend taking a guided tour instead.
Winter has its own charm, with snow-covered mountains and frozen rivers and waterfalls making for some incredible photos. Just be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially closed trails. And in the summer, you’ll have to contend with heat and crowds, but the mountain slopes are at their greenest.
Personally, I gave myself two days and two nights in the park, which felt like the perfect amount of time. It allowed me to work around the variable weather and see more of the highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, that extra time meant I could tackle a few of the less popular trails as well.
Dining with a View
Now, let’s talk about the part you’ve all been waiting for – the restaurants with those scenic settings I promised. Seoraksan National Park might be known for its hiking trails and stunning vistas, but it also has some pretty impressive dining options that’ll let you refuel in style.
As soon as you enter the park, you’ll come across several restaurants and cafes clustered along both sides of the path. This is the best place to grab a bite or a coffee while you’re exploring, as your options are much more limited elsewhere. One spot I particularly enjoyed was Dahyang Cafe, with its honey-infused drinks and panoramic views of the mountains.
For a more substantial meal, head over to Daraejeong, just to the right of the cable car entrance. We opted for the haemul pajeon, a delicious seafood and green onion pancake, and it was absolutely worth the 20,000 won price tag (around $15 USD). After all that hiking, I didn’t mind paying a little extra for a dish that tasted that good with that kind of view.
As the TripAdvisor reviews confirm, the restaurants inside the park tend to be better than the options along the road back towards Sokcho. So if you have the chance, I’d definitely recommend fueling up right there in Seoraksan.
Cable Car to Gwongeumseong Peak
One of the highlights of Seoraksan that doesn’t require any hiking is the cable car up to Gwongeumseong Peak. This 700-meter ascent whisks you up to some truly spectacular views, and you don’t even have to break a sweat to enjoy them.
The cable car station is located right near the main restaurant and cafe area, so it’s easy to find. Just be aware that tickets are for a specific time and can only be purchased on the day – there are no advance bookings. The cars run every five minutes, but they do sell out, especially at peak times, so I’d recommend heading straight there when you arrive in the park.
Adult and teenage tickets will set you back 15,000 won (around $11.50 USD), while children aged 3 and over pay 11,000 won. The ride up takes just five minutes, and at the top, you’ll find a cafe, toilets, and outdoor viewing areas to take in the surroundings.
From there, it’s a 15-minute uphill walk to the Gwongeumseong Fortress site, which is really just a flat rocky peak these days. But the views in all directions are simply breathtaking, and well worth the effort. Just be sure to check the weather before you go – if there’s lots of cloud or fog, you won’t be able to see anything from the top.
Hikes for Every Fitness Level
While the cable car is a great option for those who want to soak in the views without any strenuous activity, Seoraksan is undoubtedly a hiker’s paradise. There are plenty of day hikes to choose from, catering to a range of fitness levels.
The most popular trail is the hike up to Ulsanbawi Rock, a distinctive six-peaked granite ridge that sits around 2,860 feet above sea level. It’s a challenging 4.7-mile (round trip) trek, with hundreds of steps and a lot of elevation gain, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it.
If you’re staying at our hotel in Seoul, I’d recommend starting this hike early in the morning to avoid the worst of the crowds and the afternoon heat. It took me about 3-4 hours to complete, including a nice long break at the top to refuel and soak in the scenery.
For a slightly easier option, the Biryong Falls trail is a great choice. It’s a 3-mile (round trip) hike that takes you past two different waterfalls, including the impressive 320-meter Towangseong Falls, the tallest in the country. The path starts out easy, with a gentle forest walk, before getting a bit steeper and rockier towards the falls.
And if you’re looking for something more leisurely, the Biseondae Rock trail is just the ticket. It’s only around 4 miles (round trip) and follows a scenic stream up the valley, with mostly flat and well-formed paths. The highlight is Biseondae Rock itself, a large smooth rock that turns into a waterfall after heavy rain.
No matter which hike you choose, you’re guaranteed to be rewarded with stunning scenery and a sense of accomplishment. Just make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and proper hiking gear, and you’ll be well on your way to exploring the best of Seoraksan National Park.
Ancient Temples and Giant Buddhas
Of course, Seoraksan isn’t just about the hiking trails and panoramic views – it’s also home to some impressive cultural and historical sites. The most notable of these is the Sinheungsa Temple, one of the oldest Zen Buddhist temples in the world.
First constructed in the mid-600s AD, this temple has a fascinating history, having caught fire and been rebuilt at least twice over the centuries. But the current version has been standing for around 500 years, and it’s easy to see why this spot would have appealed to those seeking enlightenment.
As you approach the temple, you can’t miss the nearly 45-foot-tall bronze Buddha statue that stands guard. It’s the largest seated Buddha statue in the world, and the sheer scale of it is just awe-inspiring, especially with the dense trees and mountains as a backdrop.
Once you’ve taken in the giant Buddha, head through the impressive wooden entranceway and explore the temple buildings and grounds. It’s not a massive complex, but you can easily spend 15-20 minutes wandering around and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
And for those who want an even more immersive experience, it’s possible to sign up for a temple stay, where you’ll live with the monks for a couple of days, participating in prayers and eating simple vegetarian meals. It’s a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into monastic life in this stunning setting.
Whether you’re a devout Buddhist or just curious about the history and culture, Sinheungsa Temple is a must-visit destination within Seoraksan National Park. It’s the perfect complement to all the hiking, offering a chance to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the natural and spiritual beauty of this remarkable place.
So there you have it – my guide to exploring Seoraksan National Park, from the best hikes and scenic restaurants to the ancient temples and giant Buddhas. It’s a truly remarkable destination that deserves to be on every traveler’s South Korea itinerary. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
