Hallasan Mountain is the symbol of Jeju and the highest peak in South Korea at 1,947 m, part of a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. There are five trails, and two of them, Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa, reach the summit crater lake, Baengnokdam. Both have daily limits and require advance reservations.
- Elevation: 1,947 m (highest in South Korea)
- Coordinates: 33.36, 126.53
- Location: Jeju-si and Seogwipo-si, Jeju
- Admission: Free (parking charged separately)
- Best season: April to October (trails close in heavy rain or strong wind)
- Time needed: 8 to 10 hours (Seongpanak return)
The five trails
- Seongpanak (to Baengnokdam): 9.6 km one way, 8 to 10 hours return. The longest route to the summit; reservation required.
- Gwaneumsa (to Baengnokdam): 8.7 km one way, 8 to 10 hours return. Steeper, with the best scenery; reservation required.
- Yeongsil: 5.8 km, to Witseoreum and the Nambyeok area, not the summit. Good value for time.
- Eorimok: 6.8 km, to Witseoreum and beyond, not the summit.
- Donnaeko: a quieter route on the south side, not to the summit.
Reserving the summit trails
To reach Baengnokdam via Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa you must reserve through the Hallasan Mountain National Park reservation system. Daily numbers are limited (Seongpanak 1,000, Gwaneumsa 500), and peak dates fill early, so book 7 to 14 days ahead; cancelled slots sometimes reopen on the day. Yeongsil and Eorimok need no reservation.
Hiking tips
- Start around 5 a.m. on summit days.
- Hiking boots, poles and rain gear are essential.
- Carry at least 2 litres of water, snacks and chocolate.
- Heat packs from October to March.
- Trails close in rain or strong wind; check Hallasan Mountain National Park notices before you set out.
- Some areas have no phone signal.
Gear checklist
- Hiking boots with ankle support (slippers and casual trainers are turned away)
- At least 2 litres of water
- Snacks and energy bars for 8 to 10 hours
- Windproof, waterproof jacket (the summit is 5 to 10 °C colder than the coast)
- Trekking poles
- Heat packs (October to March)
- Crampons (December to March on Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa)
- Head torch for early starts
- Power bank and waterproof bag
By season
- April to May: azaleas and royal azaleas in bloom, the busiest time; reserve 2 to 3 weeks ahead.
- June to August: deep green and frequent fog; start early.
- September to October: autumn colour, especially on the Yeongsil trail.
- November to March: snow scenes; crampons essential, and trails close when icy.
Getting to the trailheads
- Seongpanak: about 30 minutes by car from Jeju-si via Route 1131. The car park often fills; arrive before 5 a.m. on busy days.
- Yeongsil: about 40 minutes by car via Route 1139, with more parking.
- Gwaneumsa: about 25 minutes by car from Jeju-si.
- Public transport: buses serve the Seongpanak trailhead on the road between Jeju-si and Seogwipo; check current routes on Visit Jeju.
FAQ
How do I reserve a summit hike?
The Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails to Baengnokdam require a reservation on the Hallasan Mountain National Park reservation site. Daily limits (Seongpanak 1,000, Gwaneumsa 500) mean peak dates sell out; book 7 to 14 days ahead.
What is the easiest trail for beginners?
Yeongsil is the most accessible. It goes to Witseoreum rather than the summit, is known for autumn colour and azaleas, and needs no reservation.
Is it free?
Yes, hiking is free; only parking is charged. In peak periods the Seongpanak car park can fill before 6 a.m.
Can I hike in winter?
Yes, with crampons. All main trails have icy sections from December to March, and they close fully in heavy snow or strong wind. Check trail status with Hallasan Mountain National Park on the morning you go.
Can children do it?
Yeongsil and Eorimok suit younger children of about 6 or 7 and up; the 8 to 10 hour summit trails are better for older children. Proper shoes (no sandals), plenty of water and snacks are essential on any trail.
Where should I stay?
For Seongpanak, Jeju-si is about 30 minutes away; for Yeongsil and Eorimok, Jungmun in Seogwipo is convenient.
Sources
- Hallasan Mountain National Park · Jeju Special Self-Governing Province · accessed 2026-10-30
- Hallasan Mountain trail reservation · Hallasan Mountain National Park · accessed 2026-10-30
- Visit Jeju · Jeju Tourism Organization · accessed 2026-10-30
Weather controls, fares, hours and ferry services change often on Jeju, so check official information before you go.
Information was checked against the official sources listed above. Opening hours, fees and fares can change; please confirm with the venue or operator before you visit.