Why Hike Hallasan?
Hallasan (한라산) is a shield volcano at the center of Jeju Island and, at 1,950 meters, the highest peak in South Korea. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to Baengnokdam, a stunning crater lake at the summit. On a clear day the views stretch across the entire island to the ocean in every direction.
The mountain is hikeable year-round, though conditions vary dramatically by season. Spring brings azaleas, summer is lush but humid, autumn delivers fiery foliage, and winter coats the trails in snow and ice. Most fit hikers can reach the summit and return in 8-10 hours.
Hallasan is not a technical climb — no ropes or scrambling required — but it is a long, steep day hike. Treat it seriously, especially in winter.
Trail Options Compared
Four official trails lead up Hallasan. Only two reach the summit (Baengnokdam crater lake). The other two stop at the 1,700-meter level.
| Trail | Distance (one way) | Summit? | Difficulty | Estimated Time (round trip) |
|---|
| Seongpanak | 9.6 km | Yes | Moderate-Hard | 8-9 hours |
| Gwaneumsa | 8.7 km | Yes | Hard | 8-10 hours |
| Eorimok | 6.8 km | No (1,700m) | Moderate | 4-5 hours |
| Yeongsil | 5.8 km | No (1,700m) | Easy-Moderate | 3-4 hours |
Seongpanak Trail
The most popular summit trail. It starts on the eastern side at 750 meters elevation and climbs gradually through dense forest before steepening near the top. The gentle lower section makes it the easier of the two summit routes, but the length means an early start is essential. Most hikers begin by 06:00-07:00.
Gwaneumsa Trail
The steepest and most challenging route, starting from the northern side. It features dramatic volcanic rock formations, ladders on exposed sections, and a river valley crossing. The scenery is arguably the best of all four trails but the difficulty is a clear step up. Recommended for experienced hikers only.
Eorimok Trail
A moderate trail on the western slope that ends at Witseoreum Shelter (1,700m). It passes through old-growth forest and is especially beautiful in autumn. A good option if you want a meaningful Hallasan experience without the full summit commitment.
Yeongsil Trail
The shortest and most accessible trail, also ending at Witseoreum Shelter. It starts at a higher trailhead and passes through an otherworldly volcanic landscape of columnar rock pillars known as the Yeongsil (Spirit Room). Popular with families and older hikers.
For the best summit experience, ascend via Seongpanak (gentler grade) and descend via Gwaneumsa (dramatic scenery) if your fitness level allows a long day. You will need separate transport at each trailhead.
Permits & Reservation System
Hallasan National Park requires online reservations for summit trails (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa). Daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the ecosystem. The Eorimok and Yeongsil trails do not require reservations but still have entry cutoff times.
- Reservations open online at visithalla.jeju.go.kr, typically 1 month in advance.
- Peak season (May, October) slots fill within minutes of opening — set a reminder.
- Each hiker must carry their own reservation confirmation (digital or printed).
- Entry is free. There is no trail fee or park admission charge.
- ID check at the trailhead — bring your passport.
If you miss the entry cutoff time, rangers will turn you away regardless of your reservation. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the cutoff.
Seasonal Restrictions
Hallasan enforces strict entry cutoff times to ensure hikers can descend before dark. These times shift with the seasons. Trails may also close entirely due to weather, heavy snow or typhoon warnings.
| Season | Seongpanak Cutoff | Gwaneumsa Cutoff | Eorimok / Yeongsil Cutoff |
|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | 06:00-09:30 | 06:00-09:00 | 06:00-12:00 |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 05:00-09:30 | 05:00-09:00 | 05:30-12:00 |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | 06:00-09:30 | 06:00-09:00 | 06:00-12:00 |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 07:00-09:00 | 07:00-09:00 | 07:00-12:00 |
Times shown are typical ranges and can change. Always check the official Hallasan National Park website on the morning of your hike.
Winter hiking on Hallasan is beautiful but demanding. Ice and snow can cover the upper trails from December through March. Crampons and trekking poles are essential — rental is available at trailhead shops.
What to Pack
- Hiking boots with ankle support — the trails are rocky and uneven above 1,500m.
- Layers: temperatures at the summit can be 10-15°C cooler than at sea level.
- Rain jacket — mountain weather changes rapidly, even on sunny mornings.
- At least 1.5 liters of water per person (no refill points on most trails).
- Packed lunch and snacks — there is a small shelter at Witseoreum but no restaurant.
- Sunscreen and hat — the upper trails are exposed with no tree cover.
- Trekking poles — highly recommended, especially for knee-saving descents.
- Crampons (winter only) — available for rent near trailheads for ₩5,000-10,000.
- Headlamp — essential if starting before dawn or running behind schedule.
Do not underestimate water needs. Dehydration is the most common problem on Hallasan, especially in summer. Carry more than you think you need.
| Item | Cost |
|---|
| Park entry | Free |
| Trail reservation | Free |
| Crampon rental (winter) | ₩5,000-10,000 |
| Trekking pole rental | ₩3,000-5,000 |
| Bus to Seongpanak trailhead (from Jeju City) | ₩2,000-3,000 |
| Bus to Yeongsil trailhead (from Jeju City) | ₩2,000-3,000 |
| Taxi to trailhead from Jeju City | ₩15,000-25,000 |
| Taxi to trailhead from Seogwipo | ₩12,000-20,000 |
Hallasan is one of the best-value outdoor experiences in Korea. Entry is free, trails are well maintained, and the only significant cost is transport to the trailhead.
The 740 bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal goes directly to the Seongpanak trailhead. It runs from early morning and takes about 40 minutes. Check the Jeju bus app (카카오맵 or Naver Map) for live schedules.
Emergencies anywhere in Korea: 112 police, 119 fire/medical, 1330 for the 24/7 KTO tourist helpline (free, English/JP/CN/ES).
Why Hike Hallasan?
Hallasan (한라산) is a shield volcano at the center of Jeju Island and, at 1,950 meters, the highest peak in South Korea. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to Baengnokdam, a stunning crater lake at the summit. On a clear day the views stretch across the entire island to the ocean in every direction.
The mountain is hikeable year-round, though conditions vary dramatically by season. Spring brings azaleas, summer is lush but humid, autumn delivers fiery foliage, and winter coats the trails in snow and ice. Most fit hikers can reach the summit and return in 8-10 hours.
Hallasan is not a technical climb — no ropes or scrambling required — but it is a long, steep day hike. Treat it seriously, especially in winter.
Trail Options Compared
Four official trails lead up Hallasan. Only two reach the summit (Baengnokdam crater lake). The other two stop at the 1,700-meter level.
| Trail | Distance (one way) | Summit? | Difficulty | Estimated Time (round trip) |
|---|
| Seongpanak | 9.6 km | Yes | Moderate-Hard | 8-9 hours |
| Gwaneumsa | 8.7 km | Yes | Hard | 8-10 hours |
| Eorimok | 6.8 km | No (1,700m) | Moderate | 4-5 hours |
| Yeongsil | 5.8 km | No (1,700m) | Easy-Moderate | 3-4 hours |
Seongpanak Trail
The most popular summit trail. It starts on the eastern side at 750 meters elevation and climbs gradually through dense forest before steepening near the top. The gentle lower section makes it the easier of the two summit routes, but the length means an early start is essential. Most hikers begin by 06:00-07:00.
Gwaneumsa Trail
The steepest and most challenging route, starting from the northern side. It features dramatic volcanic rock formations, ladders on exposed sections, and a river valley crossing. The scenery is arguably the best of all four trails but the difficulty is a clear step up. Recommended for experienced hikers only.
Eorimok Trail
A moderate trail on the western slope that ends at Witseoreum Shelter (1,700m). It passes through old-growth forest and is especially beautiful in autumn. A good option if you want a meaningful Hallasan experience without the full summit commitment.
Yeongsil Trail
The shortest and most accessible trail, also ending at Witseoreum Shelter. It starts at a higher trailhead and passes through an otherworldly volcanic landscape of columnar rock pillars known as the Yeongsil (Spirit Room). Popular with families and older hikers.
For the best summit experience, ascend via Seongpanak (gentler grade) and descend via Gwaneumsa (dramatic scenery) if your fitness level allows a long day. You will need separate transport at each trailhead.
Permits & Reservation System
Hallasan National Park requires online reservations for summit trails (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa). Daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the ecosystem. The Eorimok and Yeongsil trails do not require reservations but still have entry cutoff times.
- Reservations open online at visithalla.jeju.go.kr, typically 1 month in advance.
- Peak season (May, October) slots fill within minutes of opening — set a reminder.
- Each hiker must carry their own reservation confirmation (digital or printed).
- Entry is free. There is no trail fee or park admission charge.
- ID check at the trailhead — bring your passport.
If you miss the entry cutoff time, rangers will turn you away regardless of your reservation. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the cutoff.
Seasonal Restrictions
Hallasan enforces strict entry cutoff times to ensure hikers can descend before dark. These times shift with the seasons. Trails may also close entirely due to weather, heavy snow or typhoon warnings.
| Season | Seongpanak Cutoff | Gwaneumsa Cutoff | Eorimok / Yeongsil Cutoff |
|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | 06:00-09:30 | 06:00-09:00 | 06:00-12:00 |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 05:00-09:30 | 05:00-09:00 | 05:30-12:00 |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | 06:00-09:30 | 06:00-09:00 | 06:00-12:00 |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 07:00-09:00 | 07:00-09:00 | 07:00-12:00 |
Times shown are typical ranges and can change. Always check the official Hallasan National Park website on the morning of your hike.
Winter hiking on Hallasan is beautiful but demanding. Ice and snow can cover the upper trails from December through March. Crampons and trekking poles are essential — rental is available at trailhead shops.
What to Pack
- Hiking boots with ankle support — the trails are rocky and uneven above 1,500m.
- Layers: temperatures at the summit can be 10-15°C cooler than at sea level.
- Rain jacket — mountain weather changes rapidly, even on sunny mornings.
- At least 1.5 liters of water per person (no refill points on most trails).
- Packed lunch and snacks — there is a small shelter at Witseoreum but no restaurant.
- Sunscreen and hat — the upper trails are exposed with no tree cover.
- Trekking poles — highly recommended, especially for knee-saving descents.
- Crampons (winter only) — available for rent near trailheads for ₩5,000-10,000.
- Headlamp — essential if starting before dawn or running behind schedule.
Do not underestimate water needs. Dehydration is the most common problem on Hallasan, especially in summer. Carry more than you think you need.
| Item | Cost |
|---|
| Park entry | Free |
| Trail reservation | Free |
| Crampon rental (winter) | ₩5,000-10,000 |
| Trekking pole rental | ₩3,000-5,000 |
| Bus to Seongpanak trailhead (from Jeju City) | ₩2,000-3,000 |
| Bus to Yeongsil trailhead (from Jeju City) | ₩2,000-3,000 |
| Taxi to trailhead from Jeju City | ₩15,000-25,000 |
| Taxi to trailhead from Seogwipo | ₩12,000-20,000 |
Hallasan is one of the best-value outdoor experiences in Korea. Entry is free, trails are well maintained, and the only significant cost is transport to the trailhead.
The 740 bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal goes directly to the Seongpanak trailhead. It runs from early morning and takes about 40 minutes. Check the Jeju bus app (카카오맵 or Naver Map) for live schedules.
Emergencies anywhere in Korea: 112 police, 119 fire/medical, 1330 for the 24/7 KTO tourist helpline (free, English/JP/CN/ES).