Korea is a country filled with natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. With over 70% of its land covered in mountains, hiking has become a popular pastime for locals and tourists alike. The country boasts some of the best hiking trails in Asia, with something for everyone, from beginner hikers to advanced climbers. In this post, we will introduce Korea's top five hiking trails for nature lovers.
Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park is located in the eastern part of Korea and is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. The park is famous for its granite peaks, clear streams, and lush forests. The most popular hiking trail in the park is the Ulsanbawi Trail, which leads to a stunning rock formation that offers panoramic views of the park. The trail is 3.8 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours to complete round trip. The trail is challenging, with steep stairs and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are worth the effort.
Another popular trail in Seoraksan National Park is the Biseondae Rock Trail. This trail is easier than the Ulsanbawi Trail, making it a great option for beginners. The trail is 3.7 kilometers long and takes about 2.5 hours to complete round trip. The trail follows a river and leads to a rock formation that is said to resemble a fairy's palace.
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is located in the northern part of Seoul and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Korea. The park is home to over 1,300 plant species and 100 animal species, including wild boars and deer. The most popular trail in the park is the Baegundae Peak Trail, which leads to the highest peak in the park. The trail is 3.6 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours to complete round trip. The trail is challenging, with steep stairs and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are worth the effort.
Another popular trail in Bukhansan National Park is the Bibong Ridge Trail. This trail is easier than the Baegundae Peak Trail, making it a great option for beginners. The trail is 3.3 kilometers long and takes about 3 hours to complete round trip. The trail follows a ridge and offers stunning views of the city.
Jirisan National Park
Jirisan National Park is located in the southern part of Korea and is the largest national park in the country. The park is famous for its pristine forests, clear streams, and breathtaking waterfalls. The most popular trail in the park is the Cheonwangbong Peak Trail, which leads to the highest peak in mainland Korea. The trail is 10.5 kilometers long and takes about 8 hours to complete round trip. The trail is challenging, with steep stairs and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are worth the effort.
Another popular trail in Jirisan National Park is the Nogodan Peak Trail. This trail is easier than the Cheonwangbong Peak Trail, making it a great option for beginners. The trail is 5.6 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours to complete round trip. The trail follows a ridge and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Hallasan National Park
Hallasan National Park is located on Jeju Island, a volcanic island off the southern coast of Korea. The park is home to Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea. The mountain is a shield volcano that last erupted over 5,000 years ago. The most popular trail in the park is the Seongpanak Trail, which leads to the summit of Hallasan. The trail is 9.6 kilometers long and takes about 8 hours to complete round trip. The trail is challenging, with steep stairs and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are worth the effort. On a clear day, hikers can see the entire island from the summit.
Another popular trail in Hallasan National Park is the Eorimok Trail. This trail is easier than the Seongpanak Trail, making it a great option for beginners. The trail is 3.7 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours to complete round trip. The trail follows a stream and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests.
Jirisan to Naejangsan Trail
The Jirisan to Naejangsan Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that connects Jirisan National Park to Naejangsan National Park. The trail is 339 kilometers long and takes about 25 days to complete. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Korea, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Hikers can experience the traditional culture of Korea by staying in mountain huts along the trail.
The most popular section of the Jirisan to Naejangsan Trail is the Baegyangsa Temple to Naejangsa Temple section. This section is 35 kilometers long and takes about 3 days to complete. The section passes through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers can stay in mountain huts along the way and experience the traditional culture of Korea.
Conclusion
Korea's top five hiking trails offer something for everyone, from beginner hikers to advanced climbers. Seoraksan National Park, Bukhansan National Park, Jirisan National Park, Hallasan National Park, and the Jirisan to Naejangsan Trail offer some of the most beautiful landscapes in Korea, from granite peaks to pristine forests. Hiking in Korea is not only a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country but also a way to experience the traditional culture of Korea by staying in mountain huts along the way. If you are a nature lover and looking for an adventure, hiking in Korea is a must-do
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