South Korea is a hiker's paradise, offering a diverse range of landscapes and terrains to explore. From scenic coastlines to rugged mountain ranges, the country boasts a wealth of stunning trails that are perfect for hiking enthusiasts of all levels. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best hiking trails in South Korea and what you can expect from each one.
1. Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park is a protected area in South Korea, located in the northern part of the country near the city of Sokcho. The park is known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in South Korea. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants, birds, and animals. The park also features numerous hiking trails, which wind through the lush forests and past sparkling streams and waterfalls. One of the park's main attractions is Seoraksan Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of activities, Seoraksan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting South Korea.
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| Seoraksan National Park. © iStock |
2. Jirisan National Park
Jirisan National Park is a protected area located in the southwestern region of South Korea. It is the country's largest national park and encompasses a vast mountain range that includes the highest peak in the southern region, Cheonwangbong. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged mountain peaks. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including many species of endemic plants and animals. In addition to its natural beauty, Jirisan National Park is also rich in cultural heritage and features numerous historical sites, including ancient temples, castles, and fortresses. With its diverse range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing, Jirisan National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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| Jirisan National Park. © iStock |
3. Deogyusan National Park
Deogyusan National Park is a protected area located in the central region of South Korea. The park encompasses the Deogyu Mountain range, which includes Deogyusan Mountain, the third-highest peak in South Korea. The park is known for its stunning scenery, including breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, dense forests, and rugged peaks. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including a diverse array of bird species, as well as several species of endemic plants. In addition to its natural beauty, Deogyusan National Park is also rich in cultural heritage and features several historical sites, including ancient temples and fortresses. With its extensive network of hiking trails and its reputation as one of the best destinations for winter sports in South Korea, Deogyusan National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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| Deogyusan National Park. © iStock |
4. Hallasan National Park
Hallasan National Park is a protected area located on Jeju Island in South Korea. It is named after Hallasan Mountain, the highest peak in South Korea, which stands at 1,950 meters tall. The park is renowned for its unique volcanic landscape, including craters, lakes, and waterfalls. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of endemic plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. Visitors to Hallasan National Park can explore its many hiking trails, admire its stunning scenery, and visit its cultural heritage sites, including temples and fortresses. The park is particularly popular during the spring when its slopes are blanketed with a stunning array of wildflowers, and in the fall, when its autumn foliage is at its most vibrant. Whether you're a nature lover, a hiker, or simply looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Hallasan National Park is a must-visit destination.
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| Hallasan. © iStock |
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| Baekrokdam at the top of Hallasan. © iStock |
5. Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park, located near Seoul, South Korea, is one of the country's most popular national parks due to its proximity to the city and its stunning mountain scenery. The park is known for its granite peaks, including the highest peak in Seoul, Baegundae. It's a popular destination for hiking, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the city from the peaks, as well as temples and other cultural sites within the park. Bukhansan National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience South Korea's unique blend of urban and rural landscapes.
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| Bukhansan National Park. © Flickr |
6. Woraksan National Park
Worakan National Park is located in the eastern part of South Korea and covers the mountain range of Worak in the province of Gangwon-do. This park is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from lush green forests to rocky peaks. It is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy its scenic trails, waterfalls, and stunning views. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, boars, and bears, as well as several endangered species of plants. With its beautiful natural scenery and diverse range of outdoor activities, Worakan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of South Korea's natural landscapes.
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| Woraksan Jebibong. © iStock |
7. Odaesan National Park
Odaesan National Park is located in the central region of South Korea and covers parts of the cities of Gangneung and Pyeongchang. It is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural history, including the presence of ancient Buddhist temples and historic sites. The park is also home to several unique species of plants and animals, as well as several well-marked hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors to Odaesan National Park can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping, and can also participate in cultural and historical tours to learn more about the area's rich history and heritage.
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| Odaesan National Park. © Wikimedia |
8. Sobaeksan National Park
Sobaeksan National Park is located in the central region of South Korea and is known for its stunning mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The park is home to Sobaeksan Mountain, which is considered to be one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Baekdu-daegan" and offers a variety of challenging hiking trails for visitors to explore. Sobaeksan National Park is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as the park's forests provide habitat for many species of birds, including the endangered White-tailed Eagle. The park is also home to several historic temples, including the Baekjak Temple, which offers a glimpse into the country's Buddhist history. Sobaeksan is especially famous as a winter hiking destination for Koreans.
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| Sobaeksan National Park in Witner. © iStock |
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| Sobaeksan National Park in Witner. © iStock |
10. Juwangsan National Park
Juwangsan National Park is located in the southeast of South Korea and covers an area of approximately 230 square kilometers. The park is known for its beautiful scenery, including its mountain ranges and crystal-clear streams. Juwangsan is home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists. The park also offers a number of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking. In winter times, Juwangsan National Park is famous for its ice cliff. With its unique landscape and rich biodiversity, Juwangsan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of South Korea's natural wonders.
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| Juwangsan National Park. © iStock |
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| Cheongsong Ice Valley. © iStock |
12. Hallyeohaesang National Park
Hallyeohaesang National Park is located on the southern coast of South Korea and encompasses a wide range of natural beauty, from scenic islands to stunning waterfalls and rivers. The park is also home to diverse marine life, including dolphins, whales, and over 100 species of fish. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes and water activities such as fishing and boating. With its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, Hallyeohaesang National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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| Hallyeohaesang National Park. © iStock |
Korean National Park: https://english.knps.or.kr/
