Wu Swee OngSeoraksan National Park remains a premier destination in South Korea for those who appreciate natural beauty. While particularly celebrated for its stunning autumn foliage, the park offers breathtaking landscapes throughout the year. Within its boundaries, visitors will discover majestic mountains, verdant forests, unique rock formations, flowing streams, and cascading waterfalls. Similar to many picturesque mountain parks in Japan and Korea, Seoraksan also features a cable car offering access to panoramic views from one of its peaks.
However, the most rewarding way to experience the park’s splendour is undoubtedly by exploring its extensive network of hiking trails. Ranging from leisurely 2-3 hour routes to more challenging multi-day treks, there’s a path to suit every fitness level. During my visit, I hiked the Ulsanbawi Rock trail, a rewarding trek of over four hours return. Although the weather wasn’t ideal, the ethereal misty scenery undoubtedly enhanced the overall experience. For those planning a visit in 2025, be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts to make the most of this magnificent natural attraction.
Going up to Ulsanbawi
Misty within the park
Mountain sceneries like a Chinese painting
Pretty mountain streams add to your hiking experience
Mountain scenery on your hike!
It would be highly recommended to stay a few days to fully enjoy the park, instead of taking a touristy day-trip from Seoul or something. Those day-trippers could only afford a photo session with a giant Buddha statue and quick visits to the temples inside the park – hardly worth the while. One could easily get a bus from Seoul to Sokcho, the city with easiest access to Seoraksan National Park. Just outside the bus terminal in Sokcho, there are public buses to the National Park (bus no. 7), as well as Seorak-dong, the village just outside the park. There are accommodation options both in Sokcho, as well as Seorak-dong. But there is a hostel in Seorak-dong!
For photography enthusiasts, who would want convenient access for night photography or early morning photography, there is also a hotel right inside the park. The Seorak Tourist Hotel would also provide a special pass for you to re-enter the park, which is great for multi-day stays. Otherwise, for visitors who visit the park on different days, they would have to purchase separate park entry tickets. There is only one restaurant at the hotel though, so you may want to purchase all your necessary stuff in town before going in.
Also Read: 8 Reasons Why Travellers Keep Going Back to South Korea
If you have time for your Korea trip, include Seoraksan into your itinerary!
Contributed by Roving Light
