Hiking the Seoraksan Mountains and Temples

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Upscale

Premium

Group size

1-7 tourists,
over 6 y.o.

Granite peaks rise like silent guardians above deep valleys, where cool mountain waterfalls break the silence of the valleys and create some of Korea’s most breathtaking scenery. In eastern Korea, Seoraksan National Park rises with cliffs, quiet valleys, and clear streams — a place where nature feels powerful and calm at the same time.

Over two unforgettable days, you’ll hike some of the park’s most scenic routes, moving through lush valleys and past cascading waterfalls before climbing toward legendary viewpoints like Ulsanbawi Rock, where massive stone towers rise nearly 900 meters above the valley. Between trails, the journey slows into moments of culture and reflection — visiting mountain temples, riding a cable car above high ridges, and enjoying warm Korean meals after long days in nature.

You’ll also explore the seaside sanctuary of Naksansa Temple and ascend to the ancient ruins of Gwongeumseong Fortress for sweeping views across Seoraksan’s wild peaks. Join this journey into Korea’s most iconic mountain landscapes and let stone, water, and silence guide every step!

Please note: this is a private tour
1 person: USD 1,599
2 people: USD 899 per person (USD 1,798 total)
3 people: USD 719 per person (USD 2,157 total)
4 people: USD 579 per person (USD 2,316 total)
5 people: USD 539 per person (USD 2,695 total)
6 people: USD 479 per person (USD 2,874 total)
7 people: USD 459 per person (USD 3,213 total)

SEUNG IG P. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English, Korean

With 70 percent of its landscape being mountains, Korea is a veritable playground for hiking enthusiasts. Seoul is one of few cities in the world which has easily accessible mountains in its metropolitan area. There are several gorgeous mountains in Seoul and the surrounding suburban areas. Seoul’s most prominent peak is Mt. Bukhansan. Additionally, there are many stunning mountains like Mt. Seoraksan, Mr. Jirisan, Mr. Odesan, etc. within a couple of hours’ drive by car. There is no better way to really get up close and experience Korea's picturesque outdoors than hiking. Our goal is to aid international hiking enthusiasts in experiencing the real nature of Korea as well as Korean culture and life through hiking, trekking and backpacking. Lack of thorough hiking information can make access to mountains more difficult for international hikers. Our guided hike specialists provide whatever you require regarding information and services for your excursions. We will make the optimum itinerary for you by taking your physical condition, hiking ability, and any additional requirements into consideration. Our small guided hikes are a great way to explore new areas easily and safely. Of course, you won’t just have a hiking guide, you’ll learn a lot like Korea culture, history and nature along the way as well. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience Korea’s stunning natural highlights with all details acknowledged and accounted for. Let us be your stress-free guide to Korea’s peaks.

Tour highlights

Hiking Through UNESCO Seoraksan

Hike forest trails through granite valleys, rushing streams, and waterfalls in one of Korea’s most protected and breathtaking mountain parks

The Six Peaks of Ulsanbawi

Climb among towering granite spires rising nearly 900 meters, where cliffs open to wide mountain panoramas

Temples Between Mountain and Sea

Walk through Naksansa Temple’s peaceful courtyards, perched above waves and sunrise-lit coastal cliffs

Route details

In the morning, we head toward Mt. Seoraksan, located in the eastern part of Korea. The drive takes around three hours from Seoul.

Seoraksan National Park is widely considered one of the most beautiful mountain areas in the country. Known for its deep valleys, clear streams, steep cliffs, and many waterfalls, the park was first protected as a natural preservation area in 1965. It later became Korea’s fifth national park in 1970 and was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1982 due to its rare plants and wildlife. The IUCN also recognizes it as a Category II National Park.

There are many hiking routes in Seoraksan, ranging from easier four-hour walks to long, demanding mountain trails that can take up to twenty hours. To truly experience the area, spending one or two nights nearby is recommended. During our hike, we enjoy views of rocky cliffs, flowing streams, valley paths, and waterfalls.

Next, we hike to Ulsanbawi Rock, one of the park’s most famous landmarks. This dramatic formation is made up of six large stone peaks rising from the mountain base to about 900 meters above sea level. The trail begins with a gentle slope, but after passing Heundeul Rock it becomes steeper, with rocky sections and iron stairs. The full route is about 8 km and takes roughly four hours round trip, offering impressive mountain scenery along the way.

(~8 hours; admission tickets included)

Accommodation: We will stay at a hotel in Mt Seoraksan area.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

12 more photos

Difficulty

Moderate

Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Tour provider's comments

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Accommodation

Comfort

Upscale

Premium

Hotel

1 night

Overnight accommodation at hotel (4* or 3* hotel) 2/per room. If odd number, 2/room & 1/room).

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Conditions

Included

meals (lunch for two days, dinner for the first day, breakfast for the second day);
professional English speaking hiking guide with official tour guide license;
Korean rice wine(Makgeolli) for the first day's dinner;
overnight accommodation at hotel (4* or 3* hotel) 2/per room. If odd number, 2/room & 1/room);
private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle;
hotel pickup and drop-off;
tickets included.

Extras