Introduction
Seoraksan National Park, near Sokcho in Gangwon Province, is Korea’s crown jewel for autumn hiking. Every October, its jagged peaks, ancient temples, and lush valleys ignite in fiery reds, oranges, and golds. For foreign travelers, it’s a breathtaking immersion into Korea’s natural beauty and culture. Here’s your detailed guide to conquering Seoraksan’s autumn trails!
🍁 1. Why Seoraksan in Autumn?
- Peak Foliage: Mid-October to early November (varies yearly). The maple, oak, and birch forests create a surreal, colorful canopy.
- Weather: Crisp air (5°C–15°C), perfect for hiking. Mornings can be chilly; afternoons are sunny.
- UNESCO Recognition: Part of the Baekdu-daegan mountain range, famed for biodiversity and spiritual significance.
🚆 2. Getting to Seoraksan from Seoul
- By Bus: Express buses from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Sokcho Intercity Bus Terminal (2.5–3 hours). From Sokcho, take local bus #7 or #7-1 to Seoraksan National Park Entrance (15 mins).
- By Car: Rent a car via apps (e.g., Socar) for flexibility. Drive via Yeongdong Expressway (approx. 3 hours).
- Tip: Arrive early! Parking and park entrances get crowded by 9 AM.
🥾 3. Best Trails for All Levels
A. Biseondae Rock Course (Easy–Moderate)
- Route: Park Entrance → Biseondae (flat riverside path) → Geumganggul Cave.
- Highlights: Turquoise streams framed by crimson maples. Mythical “fairy rocks” and carved Buddha statues.
- Duration: 2–3 hours round-trip.
B. Ulsanbawi Rock (Challenging)
- Route: Starts near Sinheungsa Temple → 800+ steep steps to the summit.
- Reward: Panoramic views of Sokcho, the East Sea, and a sea of autumn colors.
- Duration: 4–5 hours. Caution: Not for those afraid of heights!
C. Biryong Falls (Moderate)
- Route: Follows a valley past Towangseong Falls → ends at the dramatic 3-tiered Biryong Falls.
- Perk: Less crowded; golden ginkgo trees line the path.
- Duration: 3–4 hours.
🎒 4. What to Pack
- Essentials: Layers (thermal base + windbreaker), sturdy hiking shoes, gloves, hat.
- Gear: Trekking poles (for steep sections), water bottle (refill stations at rest areas), cash (for entry fees/snacks).
- Extras: Camera, Korean SIM card/pocket Wi-Fi (for trail maps), basic first-aid kit.
📌 5. Foreigner-Specific Tips
- Entrance Fee: ₩3,500 (adults). Show passport for discounts.
- Language: Trail signs are bilingual (Korean/English). Learn basic phrases like “Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?” (Where’s the restroom?).
- Facilities: Clean restrooms and convenience stores at the park entrance. Limited English-speaking staff.
- Etiquette: Stay on trails, avoid loud noises near temples, and pack out trash.
� 6. Cultural & Scenic Stops
- Sinheungsa Temple: Korea’s oldest Zen temple. See the giant bronze Buddha amid fall foliage.
- Gwongeumseong Fortress: Take the cable car (₩10,000 one-way) for aerial views without hiking.
- Sokcho After-Hike: Try daepae sundae (blood sausage) at Sokcho Tourist & Fish Market, or unwind at Sokcho Beach.
🍂 Final Advice
- Avoid Weekends: Opt for weekdays to dodge crowds.
- Foliage Trackers: Use apps like “Korea Foliage” or visit the KNPS website for real-time color updates.
- Safety First: Mountain weather changes fast. Check forecasts and descend before dusk.
Seoraksan in autumn is pure magic – a symphony of color, culture, and adventure. Lace up, breathe deep, and let Korea’s mountains steal your heart! 🌄
> “Climb mountains not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world.” – David McCullough Jr.