Seoraksan National Park Seorak District

Worth a trip if you’re visiting Korea. Only a 2.5h bus ride to Sokcho, then a short bus ride to Seoraksan. Visited in the morning on a cold, winter day while it was snowing and there was nobody else on our trail. Walking through the tranquil, snow-covered forest was an incredible experience! Do wear proper shoes especially in the winter.

It was worth the trip, if you intend to hike in the winter, do prepare yourself in having crampons. The crampons sold at the shops range from 20,000 to 40,000 won. We went to hike Ulsanbawi and it had a remarkable view. Do keep a look out on the official website if any trails are closed due to the snowfall. Definitely would come back here again to hike the other trails.

A must-go place if you want to enjoy nature. It is a lovely place, especially during autumn. Precaution for pollen during that time.

This is a big park. So it feels like not packed with people even though there's a lot of visitors. Just get ready for a long walk and make sure to use the right outfit for the walk.

There's a few cafes where you can stop by for a really nice coffee. The amenities are clean and well-maintained.

Impressive landscape, stunning views, amazing hikes... I did the shorter hike to the waterfall observatory and Ulsanbawi Mountain Ridge, even those were quite exhausting, so don't believe the Korean pamphlets stating they are 2/5 difficulty, you have to catch your breath in countless breaks till you make it to the top.

The view from the peak is awesome 👍 I think it's better to come here by the end of October to see the autumn colors 🍁🥮. You can find cafés and restaurants around in the area. There is also a parking lot 🅿😁 I strongly recommend this place to visit at least once.

Seoraksan National Park, located in the Seorak district, is a magnificent testament to the natural beauty and ecological diversity of South Korea. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this park is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the dramatic peaks of the Taebaek mountain range. It is a sanctuary for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Korean wilderness.

The park's centerpiece, Seoraksan Mountain, stands as a majestic backdrop, with its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and sheer cliffs painting a picture of nature's grandeur. The highest peak, Daecheongbong, rises to 1,708 meters, offering challenging trails and unforgettable vistas for adventurous hikers. The beauty of Seoraksan National Park is not only in its heights but also in the diversity of its natural landscapes, including hot springs, dense forests, and crystal-clear streams that cascade into stunning waterfalls.

One of the park's most iconic sights is the Ulsanbawi Rock, a massive granite formation that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the East Sea. Another highlight is the Sinheungsa Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple that provides a peaceful retreat and a touch of spiritual serenity amidst the natural splendor. The temple is home to the Great Unification Buddha, a towering bronze statue that symbolizes peace and unity.

Seoraksan National Park is a haven for biodiversity, home to a wide array of flora and fauna, some of which are rare and endemic. The changing seasons bring an ever-shifting palette of colors, from the lush greens of summer to the fiery reds and golds of autumn, making every visit unique. The park's ecological importance and natural beauty make it a critical site for conservation efforts and environmental education.

The park is well-equipped to welcome visitors, with well-marked trails, visitor centers, and accommodations ranging from camping sites to comfortable lodges. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk through the woods, a challenging mountain hike, or simply a peaceful place to reconnect with nature, Seoraksan National Park offers an array of experiences that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

In summary, Seoraksan National Park in the Seorak district is a jewel of South Korea's natural heritage. Its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the spiritual ambiance of its ancient temples offer a deeply fulfilling experience for those who traverse its trails. It stands as a testament to the beauty of the Korean landscape, inviting visitors from around the world to explore its wonders and find solace in its tranquil embrace.

Taking a Cable Car, about 5 minutes to the Top...then continued on foot towards the peak...the path has stairs, it's comfortable...upon reaching the top, it's a bit foggy in mid-September...In the lower area, before taking the cable car, there are many cafes with tables and chairs outside, under beautiful trees...it's very cozy for a coffee break...There is a giant Buddha statue, with a green scenery background...it's amazing..well worth the journey.

Love the view, but if u want to go there, not winter time..big no no..cuz too windy and cold u cant go to the mount with cable car cuz too windy...cafe ada wedang jahe and hot coklat u have to try it

This is one of the MOST VISIT destination, everytime I go to Korea.

From the very first time i went, in 2011, up to the last time I went in 2019.
Either with friends, solo, or the latest, with my wife.

NEVER EVEN ONCE DISAPPOINTED.

The view is mesmerizing, serene, peaceful,
Many restaurants and coffee shops to snack or have a meal,
The toilets are always clean,
Public facilities are well maintained,
The staffs are informative and helpful,
What else can you asking for?

For 5 times I've been to Seoraksan, and I will always go there everytime I go back to Korea in the future.
The moments and memories we have in this national park, is truly unforgettable.

As for the public transport options, there are many bus operating from Sokcho.
I don't know about a direct route from Seoul or many other major City in Korea, but I think there will be some sort of them.
My suggestion is, just spend a night in Sokcho first, you will not regret a night in Sokcho anyway.

See you on the summit!

Well worth a visit. Large national park with beautiful scenery. Lots of places to sit and watch the world go by.
There are lots of restaurants to grab a quick drink or sit down and have some food.
There are some very big hikes my son did the long hike to the top of the mountain and nearly died. Take plenty of water as there are no cafe's or water spots for the last 5km.

Fun experience the mountain view very beautiful cover with snow. Cable car very convinience we don't have to wait too long.

Come here for a good walk enjoying nature and the good scenery, clean air all around and peace and quite

Amazing hike with well-marked trails. Rather difficult, so come well prepared! Took us close to 7hrs to reach the peak and back...

Amazing views and the enviroment is good taken care off.
From easy to hard trails so you can enjoy it your way

A must visit site in Korea — good nature, wonderful cable car with great view, really clean air, beautiful forest, amazing history to learn from.

Fantastic scenery. Great place to go hiking.

The trails are full of maple trees. Beautiful fall view.

Good for vacation , recommend to wear trail sneaker cause the floor is uneven

I love this place. Wonderful mountain, sadly it was raining with fog but still very atmospheric and beautiful surroundings!

Cable Car tickets are sold, departing every 5 minutes, but make sure to save it for the ride back. Once on the mountain, you can hike up about 10 minutes to the top. Warning markers are set up there, but they aren't strict enforcing. Maybe after an u lucky idiot tumbles to their death trying to get a selfie.

Pro-Tip: The "last parking lot" sign is for the main entrance. There is a final parking lot via a small road for cable cars.