A Guide to Hiking in South Korea: Best Trails and Scenic Views

South Korea is a paradise for hiker because the country boasts a very diverse range of trails demonstrating all the beauty of nature in the country. Whether you’re a mountain hiking, raging stream rafting or coastal path lover, you’ll be able to find the perfect trail for your type of adventure. A beginner’s look or an experienced trekker’s view, South Korea’s hiking destinations will captivate you. Before embarking on your journey, you must confirm your South Korea visa requirements to avoid any hassles.

Visiting the country and hiking South Korea is a cultural experience, there are the well-known trails and breathtaking landscapes with what is more than a physical activity. Historic temples, ancient fortresses and serene countryside are many trails you will pass through to get a glimpse into Korea’s rich heritage. As a result, lace up those hiking boots and prepare for the best hikes the country has to offer.

Here are the best trails and scenic views in South Korea.

1. Seoraksan National Park

If you love to hike and want to visit South Korea, Seoraksan National Park is one of most striking hiking destination that you need to visit. Dense forest, tranquil streams, and difficult peaks such as Daecheongbong (the third highest mountain of the country) are open to hikers. Autumn is a photographer’s paradise as the park’s natural beauty is particularly striking when the vibrant fall colors paint the landscape in red, orange and yellow.

2. Hallasan Mountain

Hallasan, the highest peak in South Korea, present on Jeju Island, but it also provides one of the country’s most unique hiking experiences. You will find yourself climbing up on a variety of natural terrains such as volcanic rock field to lush forests and tranquil crater lakes. The Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails are good and the hikers have the opportunity to see Jeju Island and the sparkling surrounding ocean from the top, so it is a must visit for nature lovers.

3. Bukhansan National Park

Just outside Seoul, Bukhansan National Park is a perfect hiker’s retreat offering both history and nature. The park offers scenic valleys, past ancient temples, and up steep granite peaks through its park trails. The Baegundae Peak trail is a popular trail that features a challenging climb for hikers and a reward of panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline and lush mountains. If you are seeking a way to escape the city, while still staying close to it, Bukhansan is an ideal place to reconnect with nature.

4. Jirisan National Park

It is Korea’s largest park and a place for experienced hikers. The challenging trek to Cheonwangbong Peak, the second-highest mountain in the country, offers a rewarding adventure. Along the way you go through deep valleys, see cascading waterfalls, go by ancient Buddhist temples with the cultural additional to the natural beauty. Hiking in Jirisan offers a thoroughly immersive experience as there are many kinds of wildlife, some of which is endangered, such as the Asiatic black bear.

5. Ulsanbawi Rock

For those who are seeking a physical challenge, Ulsanbawi Rock that is situated in Seoraksan National Park presents a thrilling hiking adventure. In other words thanks to the steep staircases and rocky paths on the hike to the summit the reward at the top is, believe me, a pleasure to see. From the peak, you can get a panoramic view of the wonderful coastline, majestic mountain landscapes, and even see the East Sea in the distance. Every hiking enthusiast will remember it as an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

South Korea is full of adventures for the quest to hike, this will be both a physical challenging and a natural beauty of this southeast coastal country. There are many trails with varied difficulty: calm walks, serious climbs, for every hiker one or more suited route. Your hiking experience will be so different since you will both have a rich cultural heritage and this stunning landscapes. Before you go on your journey, make sure you have a South Korea visa to avoid any hassles.

The trails of South Korea are suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The Seoraksan’s iconic peaks provide just as much opportunity to experience the country’s naked beauty as the volcanic landscapes of Hallasan. In order to make the most of this amazing country, make sure to plan ahead and apply for your South Korea visa from India.