Seoraksan (설악산)

Learn Korean

설악 (seo-rak)means snowy Peak
산 (san) means Mountain

Fun Facts

Mount Seorak consists of 30 grand peaks including the 3^rd highest peak in Korea after Hallasan and Jirisan Mountains.
Added to the UNESCO list of Biosphere Reserves in 1982—more than 1,000 species of plants and over 1500 animal species have been identified within the park including the rare Korean musk deer, otters, Siberian Flying Squirrels, and occasionally an Asian black bear.

Seoraksan National Park is one of South Korea’s top-rated destinations, spanning across Sokcho, Goseong, Inje, and Yangyang in Gangwon-do. The numerous hiking trails, ranging from moderate day hikes to more advanced multi-day hikes, offer visitors awe-inspiring views, unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic peaks. If hiking isn’t your thing, ride the cable car 700 meters to the top of Gwongeumseong Peak where you will be rewarded with all the views and none of the sweat. This peak was once the location of the Gwongeumseong Fortress, though there is nothing left of the fortress now, the views from this ridgeline are unmatched. In addition to its natural wonders, Seoraksan is also home to numerous temples and cultural landmarks making it a haven for both nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Travel Tips

Seorak mountain is best visited on a group tour that is paired with Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm.
Take a moment to sip a hot cinnamon tea at the café right outside Sinheungsa temple.
October tends to be the busiest time of year to visit Seoraksan because of the autumn foliage.
Make sure to wear appropriate shoes, even if you’re taking the cable car to the top. There is still a lot of walking, and trails can be rocky and uneven.
Due to the notoriously unpredictable weather on the mountain, cable car tickets can only be bought in-person on the same day, plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Address

English: 1 Daecheongbong-gil, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do

Hangeul: 강원특별자치도 속초시 설악동

I would argue that this is my favorite place we’ve visited so far in South Korea. We hiked the Biseondae trail on our first trip, which was not a part of our original plans and turned out to be an unexpected highlight. The trail is moderate (it takes about an hour to get to the top) and follows the river up to Biseondae Rock where legend has it that a hermit who enjoyed the scenery from this spot immediately ascended to heaven. The second time we visited we rode the cable car and walked (also a moderate hike up a stairway) to the Gwongeumseong Peak where we could see views of the East Sea coastline in the distance. I love it here; each time we visit we discover something different and rewarding. Sinheungsa Temple is my favorite temple and is also a must-see during a visit to Seoraksan.

If you are visiting Seoul and have time for just one trip outside of the city – this is definitely the best choice! We visited Seorak in the early summer and in the autumn and at both times of the year it was insanely beautiful. On our first visit the cable car to the Gwongeumseong Peak was under maintenance (may want to check the schedule for that), however, on our visit in the Fall we were able to ride to the top and then hike up the last part of the trail to the peak. From the observatory, the hike to the peak consists of approximately 20 minutes of uphill walking along uneven rocks and stairs. There were railings along the way, which I really appreciated. Once you are at the top you are rewarded with an amazing view of the ridgeline and cliffs. It is well worth the hike and I plan to go back next time to try and conquer some of the other hiking trails!