The name Hallasan implies that the mountain is so high that it can almost touch the Milky Way. Hallasan majestically towers in the center of Jeju Island. At an elevation of 1,950 meters, it is the highest peak in South Korea and also a symbol of Jeju Island. On sunny days, Hallasan can be seen from anywhere on the island.
As you hike along its trails, the dense forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and refreshing air make it an unforgettable experience. The mountain offers unique landscapes across all four seasons. Reaching the summit, you can command a panoramic view of the entire island and marvel at the grandeur and serenity of nature, leaving you feeling at peace and refreshed.
- Hiking Routes
Hallasan has seven hiking routes, and you can choose a trail based on your preferences and physical fitness.
① Leisure and Scenic Routes
Eoseungsaengak Trail: This trail is 1.3 kilometers long and takes approximately 1 hour to complete. It offers a short and leisurely walk that is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. The trail is particularly suitable for sightseeing and capturing beautiful photographs, making it an ideal choice for casual hikers and those looking to create lasting memories.
Seongpanak Trail: Stretching 1.5 kilometers in length, this trail takes about 1 hour to finish. It is another easy and accessible route, ideal for those seeking a relaxing and scenic hiking experience. With its gentle paths and beautiful surroundings, the Seongpanak Trail is perfect for enjoying nature without requiring significant effort, making it a great option for families, beginners, and anyone wanting a tranquil outdoor adventure.
② Classic Route
Yeongsil Trail: This trail is 5.8 kilometers long and takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. It features stunning cliffs, unique rock formations, and beautiful maple leaves, creating a picturesque hiking experience. Wooden staircases along the path make the climb more convenient and accessible for hikers. The trail culminates at Witse Oreum, offering a rewarding endpoint with scenic views.
Eorimok Trail: Spanning 6.8 kilometers, this trail takes around 3 hours to finish. The route consists of a stone path with gentle slopes, making it less strenuous. There are relatively fewer hikers, which allows for a quieter and more peaceful hike. Along the way, the trail passes through the picturesque Wanseok Hill before ultimately reaching Witse Oreum, providing hikers with a serene and enjoyable journey.
Donnaeko Trail: This trail measures 7 kilometers in length and requires approximately 3 hours to complete. It is particularly renowned for offering panoramic views of the Seogwipo coastline and the stunning Baengnokdam Lake at the summit.
③ Summit Routes (Advance Booking Required)
Gwaneumsa Trail: This trail is 8.7 kilometers long and takes approximately 5 hours to complete. It is a steep climb with rapid elevation gain and undulating paths, offering a significant challenge to hikers. Although demanding, the descent is somewhat easier due to the presence of numerous steps. Along the way, hikers can enjoy a variety of scenic spots, including the ancient Guringul Cave, the picturesque Tamna Valley, volcanic rock formations, and lush trees that add to the trail’s natural beauty. The trail ultimately leads to the summit, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Baengnokdam Lake.
Seongpanak Trail: This trail measures 9.6 kilometers in length and requires approximately 4.5 hours to complete. While the ascent is relatively gradual, the trail features rocky sections that make the climb engaging and enjoyable. The final few hundred meters near the summit become extremely steep, which can make both ascending and descending particularly challenging. Throughout the hike, the trail winds through dense forests, allowing hikers to fully immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature. The trail concludes at the summit’s Baengnokdam Lake.
At the summit, there is a stone monument marking Baengnokdam Lake. If you wish to take photos with the monument, be prepared to wait in line, as it is a popular spot for visitors. Additionally, if you turn on your GPS within 1 kilometer of the monument and take a photo, you can apply for an official summit certificate, making for a memorable keepsake of your achievement.
- Important Information
Hiking is free of charge, but the Seongpanak Trail and Gwaneumsa Trail require advance reservations on the official website. Hikers can return via the same route or choose a different trail for ascent and descent. However, only the Seongpanak Trail and Gwaneumsa Trail lead to the summit at Baengnokdam Lake, while the Yeongsil Trail and Eorimok Trail lead to Witse Oreum. All four long routes have nearby bus stops, allowing hikers to start climbing as soon as they get off the bus. For the Yeongsil Trail, an additional 45-minute walk is required from the bus stop to the trailhead.
Before beginning your hike, it is important to prepare comfortable hiking shoes and trekking poles. Since the wind at the summit can be quite strong, it is also recommended to bring a jacket for warmth.
Please note that there are no shops or trash bins along the hiking trails or at the summit of Hallasan. If you plan to hike a summit route, the hike will take a considerable amount of time, so be sure to bring sufficient supplies, including water, food, drinks, and trash bags to carry your waste.
