Seoraksan National Park is arguably the most beautiful place in Korea to witness the magic of autumn. When the ‘danpung’ (단풍, autumn foliage) arrives, the mountains transform into a breathtaking canvas of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows. Planning a trip during this popular season can be daunting, but we’ve got you covered. Here are the top 10 tips and must-dos for an unforgettable Seoraksan autumn foliage adventure!
1. Time Your Visit with the Peak Foliage Forecast
Timing is everything. The first leaves start to turn in late September, but the absolute peak season is typically around the third week of October. However, this can vary each year. Always check the official forecast from the Korea National Park Service or the Seoraksan National Park blog for the most up-to-date information on first frost and peak foliage dates to guarantee you see the mountains in their full glory.
2. Ride the Seoraksan Cable Car
For breathtaking panoramic views without a strenuous hike, the Seoraksan Cable Car is a must. It whisks you up the mountain to the Gwongeumseong Fortress area in just a few minutes. During peak season, the wait can be hours long. The key is to arrive extremely early (even before opening) or purchase tickets online if available. The view of the colorful valleys from the cable car itself is an experience you won’t forget.
3. Explore Gwongeumseong Fortress
Once you get off the cable car, a short 10-15 minute walk and climb will take you to the peak of Gwongeumseong Fortress. From here, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of Seoraksan’s rugged peaks, including the famous Ulsanbawi, and the East Sea in the distance. It’s the best reward-to-effort ratio in the entire park.
4. Hike the Iconic Ulsanbawi Course
If you’re up for a challenge, the Ulsanbawi rock formation is Seoraksan’s most iconic hike. The round trip takes about 3-4 hours and involves a lot of stairs, especially the final steel staircase to the peak. The effort is immensely rewarding, offering unparalleled, close-up views of the unique rock formations and the sea of autumn colors below.
5. Take a Leisurely Walk to Biseondae
Looking for something more relaxed and family-friendly? The Biseondae course is a perfect choice. It’s a relatively flat and easy 1-hour round-trip walk along a crystal-clear stream. The path is surrounded by stunning foliage, and the Biseondae rock platform, overlooking a serene pool of water, is a beautiful spot to rest and soak in the scenery.
6. Discover the Jujeongol Valley
Located in the southern part of the park (Osaek area), the Jujeongol Valley course is often cited as one of the most beautiful for autumn leaves. The trail follows a gorgeous valley, famous for its waterfalls like Yongso Falls and vibrant colors. It’s a relatively easy walk and offers a different perspective of Seoraksan’s beauty.
7. Find Serenity at Baekdamsa Temple
For a more peaceful experience away from the main crowds, head to the Inner Seorak (Nae-seorak) area to visit Baekdamsa Temple. The temple itself is beautiful, nestled in a pristine valley. The journey to the temple is part of the experience, often involving a scenic local bus ride along a winding mountain road that showcases spectacular foliage.
8. Master the Parking Strategy
This is a critical practical tip. During the peak autumn season, the main Sogongwon parking lot (for the cable car and Biseondae) fills up as early as 6 or 7 AM. Arrive at dawn or plan to take a taxi or local bus from your accommodation in Sokcho. If you’re hiking Ulsanbawi, there’s a different parking lot (C Parking Area), but the same rule applies: early bird gets the spot!
9. Dress in Layers and Wear Proper Shoes
Mountain weather is unpredictable. It can be warm at the base but cold and windy at the peaks. Dressing in layers (a base layer, a fleece, and a windproof/waterproof jacket) allows you to adapt. Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes are non-negotiable, even for the easier trails, as paths can be uneven.
10. Stay in Nearby Sokcho
Make your trip easier by staying in the nearby coastal city of Sokcho. This allows you to get an early start for the park, beating the traffic coming from further away. Plus, after a long day of hiking, you can reward yourself with some of the freshest seafood in Korea at the Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market or one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Tags: #Seoraksan #AutumninKorea #FallFoliage #KoreanNationalParks #HikinginKorea #Sokcho #Gangwon-do #TravelGuide #Top10
