HALLASAN NATIONAL PARK
Hallasan National Park centers around Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain and a massive shield volcano on Jeju Island. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven of unique biodiversity and striking volcanic landscapes.
It is revered for its dramatic peaks, crater lake, and diverse ecosystems that transition from warm-temperate to subalpine zones. The park offers an unparalleled hiking experience across all four seasons.
Most Popular Attractions
Peaks and Major Scenic Spots:
Baengnokdam Crater Lake: The stunning, circular crater lake at the summit of Hallasan, accessible via the Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak trails.
Witte Oreum: A smaller, beautiful oreum (parasitic cone) known for its flat top, offering unique views of the main peak.
Yeongsil Cliff: A dramatic, towering cliff face famous for its uniquely shaped rock formations, often covered in ice in winter.
Donnaeko Valley: A pristine valley on the southern slope of Hallasan, known for its clear streams and natural pools.
Eoseungsaengak Oreum: A small oreum near the Visitor Center, offering a quick hike to a peak with a scenic viewpoint.
Manse Dongsan: A slope known for its rhododendron blossoms in spring and expansive views along the Gwaneumsa trail.
Major Hiking Trails & Entrances:
Seongpanak Trail: The longest (9.6 km one-way) but gentlest ascent to the summit (Baengnokdam), requiring a pre-booked permit.
Gwaneumsa Trail: A challenging (8.7 km one-way) but arguably the most scenic ascent to the summit, featuring steep inclines and requiring a permit.
Donnaeko Trail: A quiet, less-traveled route primarily used for descent, passing through forests and near the Donnaeko Valley.
Eorimok Trail: A popular, moderate trail (6.8 km) leading to Witte Oreum, known for its beautiful forest paths and accessibility.
Yeongsil Trail: The shortest trail (5.8 km) to Witte Oreum, featuring dramatic scenery, especially the steep, iconic cliffs.
Eoseungsaengak Trail: A short (1.3 km), easily accessible trail from the Visitor Center, perfect for a quick, rewarding view.
Unique Natural Features:
Tamra Valley (Tamnagyeokgok): A deep, beautiful gorge along the Gwaneumsa trail with unique rock formations and a historic suspension bridge.
Samsong-i Forest: A section of the Eorimok trail known for its dense, ancient forest of Japanese cedars and indigenous trees.
Banggwandeok: A scenic viewpoint on the Gwaneumsa trail, offering one of the best views of Hallasan’s peak and the surrounding landscape.
Sarra Oreum: A secondary oreum accessible from the Seongpanak trail, featuring a pond at its top and a famous viewing platform.
Jindalrae Field Shelter (Azalea Field): A major rest stop on the Seongpanak trail, famous for its springtime display of pink rhododendrons.
Pyeonggyeongsa Temple Site: The historic site of an ancient temple near the Gwaneumsa entrance, adding cultural depth to the surroundings.
Jeongmul Oreum: An oreum accessible from the western side of the park, known for its easy loop trail and panoramic views of the coastal areas.
Visitor & Educational Facilities:
Hallasan National Park Visitor Center: The main hub, offering exhibitions on the mountain’s geology, ecology, and history, plus essential hiking information.
Gwaneumsa Information Center: Located at the start of the Gwaneumsa trail, providing maps and registration for the summit hike.
Eorimok Information Center: The entrance point for the popular Eorimok trail, with parking and facilities.
Hallasan Ecology Learning Center: An educational facility focusing on the unique high-altitude flora and fauna of the park.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to the Summit of Hallasan (Gwanneumsan or Seongpanak Trails): Embark on the challenging but rewarding journey to the peak, home to the stunning Baengnokdam crater lake. Note: Only these two trails lead to the summit and require a reservation.
Explore the Eoseungsaengak Trail: A short, relatively easy trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding area and a historic lookout point. It is the only trail that does not require a reservation.
Trek the Donnaeko Valley Course: Walk through a dense forest and rugged terrain, known for its pristine waters and less-crowded atmosphere compared to the summit trails.
Discover the Gwaneumsa Temple: Visit this historically significant Buddhist temple located at the start of the Gwanneumsan trail, offering a moment of quiet contemplation before or after a hike.
Go Stargazing at Hallasan: The national park, far from major light pollution, is an exceptional spot for viewing the night sky, especially near the lower sections of the trails.
Hike a Section of the Jeju Olle Trail (Route 7, 8, or 10): While not technically in the park, many Olle routes border the Hallasan area and offer coastal or forest walking experiences related to the Hallasan ecosystem.
Experience the Winter Snow Scenery (Seasonal): Visit during winter (January-February) when the mountain is covered in snow, creating breathtaking views, especially along the Eorimok or Yeongsil trails.
Identify Native Flora and Fauna: Hallasan is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Take time to look for unique species, including the Gomsae (Korean wild goat) and various endemic alpine plants.
Visit the Hallasan National Park Visitor Center: Learn about the geology, history, and ecology of the mountain, including interactive exhibits and detailed trail information.
Hike the Yeongsil Trail: Known for its dramatic rocky cliffs (Byeongpungbawi) and beautiful valleys, this trail is one of the most scenic (but does not reach the summit).
Enjoy a Post-Hike Meal of Jeju Black Pork: Reward yourself with a classic local barbecue dish at a restaurant near the park entrances or in Jeju City.
Local Tips & Transport
Public Bus System: Jeju Island has an excellent public bus system that serves all the main trailheads. The Blue Bus ( 간선버스) and Green Bus ( 지선버스) lines connect the city and intercity terminals to the park entrances.
- To Seongpanak: Take bus 281 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal or Jeju Airport.
- To Eorimok/Yeongsil: Take bus 240 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal or Jeju Airport.
Rental Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility for island travel, but parking at the main trailheads (especially Seongpanak and Eorimok) fills up very early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Taxis: Taxis are a convenient but more expensive option. They can drop you directly at the trailhead. Be aware that finding a return taxi from the more remote trailheads can be difficult, so pre-arranging a pickup is advisable.
Intra-Park Shuttles (Limited): There are very limited shuttle services between certain trailheads (e.g., between Eorimok and Yeongsil), but they are not reliable for connecting different parts of the park for a cross-mountain hike. Always check the latest bus schedules.
Summit Trail Reservation is Mandatory: You must book a reservation online through the official Hallasan National Park website for the Seongpanak and Gwanneumsan summit trails. Reservations often open a month in advance and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. You must present the QR code at the checkpoint.
Strict Cut-off Times: Hallasan enforces strict cut-off times at mid-mountain checkpoints (e.g., Jindallebat shelter on Seongpanak) to ensure hikers can safely descend before dark. Missing these times will result in mandatory turning back. Start early—6 AM is common for summit attempts.
The Three “Treasures” of Hallasan: The mountain is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve, and a Global Geopark. Treat the environment with the utmost respect.
The Weather is Unpredictable: Hallasan is known for its sudden weather changes. Even in summer, temperatures at the peak can be near freezing with high winds. Layered clothing, a waterproof/windproof jacket, and a hat are essential, regardless of the season.
No Food or Water Sales on the Trails: Unlike many parks, Hallasan has limited facilities. Except for small emergency portions at the Jindallebat Shelter, there is virtually no food or water available after the trailhead. You must carry all your own supplies.
Hidden Gem: 1100 Road (and Wetland): The 1100 Road, connecting Seogwipo and Jeju City, is the highest-paved road in South Korea and offers stunning views. The 1100 Altitude Wetland is an ecological haven right off the road and a great place for an easy walk and birdwatching.
Trail Difficulty: While the Seongpanak trail is the longest (9.6 km to the summit), it is a gentler ascent than the Gwanneumsan trail (8.7 km), which is significantly steeper and more demanding. Plan your route according to your fitness level.
Top Restaurants
Wang-gwan (Wanggwan) Restaurant [$20-$30] – A local favorite near the park’s base known for its high-quality grilled Jeju Black Pork, a must-try island specialty.
Jinmi Sikdang [$25-$40] – A very popular spot specializing in freshly caught seafood dishes, offering authentic Jeju flavors in a casual, bustling atmosphere.
Nangtteule Shwimpang [$15-$25] – Famous for its filling and affordable traditional dishes like Jeju-style bibimbap (mixed rice) with mountain greens and other homemade flavors.
Ujin Guksu [$10-$20] – Renowned for its comforting and hearty Gogi Guksu (pork noodle soup), a classic Jeju comfort food, often recommended as a perfect post-hike meal.
Dongmun Market Stalls [$5-$20 per item] – A vibrant traditional market with countless food stalls offering fresh local street food, tteokbokki, fresh seafood sashimi, and unique Jeju snacks.
Mankangchon Old-style Kalguksu [$10-$20] – A no-frills local spot specializing in delicious, hand-cut noodles (Kalguksu) served in a rich chicken or seafood broth.
Heeya’s Restaurant (Hee Ya’s Sikdang) [$15-$25] – Highly praised by locals for its authentic Duruchigi, a savory and slightly spicy marinated pork stir-fry served with fresh vegetables.
Donsadon [$30-$50] – One of the most famous and highly-regarded spots on Jeju for its thick, expertly charcoal-grilled cuts of Jeju Black Pork.
Natures Seafood [$30-$50] – A small, authentic local gem known for serving extremely fresh Mackerel Sashimi (Godeungeo Hoe), a Jeju delicacy often difficult to find.
Gossine Cheonji Noodles [$10-$20] – A unique local eatery serving noodles with a rich, savory broth made from a combination of anchovy and pork stock.
Jeju Noodle Alley [$10-$20] – A whole street near Jeju City with multiple local establishments, most of which specialize in hearty and flavorful Gogi Guksu (pork noodle soup).
Jungmun Saekdal Whole Cutlassfish Restaurant [$25-$45] – Specializes in dishes featuring whole Galchi (cutlassfish), particularly the famous braised cutlassfish or grilled cutlassfish.
Goeul Sikbang [$10-$20] – An unassuming, decades-old local institution famous for its traditional Gogi Guksu (pork noodle soup) with tender slices of boiled black pork.
Seogwipo Haemultang [$30-$50] – A great local restaurant for Haemultang, a flavorful and generous seafood hot pot often packed with fresh catches.
Noraba [$20-$40] – Known for its incredible seafood ramen (Haemul Ramyeon) and other fresh, local seafood dishes right by the sea.
Moljil Butcher’s Restaurant [$15-$30] – A unique spot specializing in a mysterious combination of spicy seafood soup and blowfish stew (Bokjiri), a popular local hangover cure.
Gamun Janchi [$20-$35] – Highly-rated for its traditional Jeju feasts, including the local specialty Mom-guk (seaweed and pork soup).
Negeori Sikdang [$20-$35] – A popular, traditional dining hall serving hearty Jeju meals, including Haemul Ttukbaegi (seafood stew).
Donsachon [$25-$45] – A well-known black pork restaurant offering high-quality grilled meat in a traditional setting.
Baekgi Haenyeo Restaurant [$30-$50] – Provides an authentic taste of the ocean with fresh seafood, including abalone porridge and sashimi, often caught by the local haenyeos.
Guksubada [$15-$25] – A respected local noodle house specializing in Jeju-style seafood noodles and traditional Bibim Guksu (spicy mixed noodles).
Jeju Daon [$20-$35] – A family restaurant known for authentic Jeju dishes like braised cutlassfish and spicy stir-fried chicken.
Samseonghyeol Haemultang [$30-$50] – A dedicated seafood stew restaurant famous for its large portions of fresh seafood hot pot.
Oneunjeong Gimbap [$5-$15] – Famous for its incredibly flavorful and unique style of Gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), which often sells out quickly and draws long lines.
Chunsimi Ne Cutlassfish [$30-$50] – A popular, slightly more upscale venue specializing in the signature large grilled cutlassfish and braised cutlassfish dishes.
The Dipper [$20-$35] – A cozy, couple-owned restaurant that serves excellent Italian-inspired pasta dishes with various sauces, often with a local twist.
Bulteok Burger [$15-$25] – A trendy spot run by young entrepreneurs, offering gourmet burgers with a local flair and vibrant, cheerful energy.
Kitchen GLA [$15-$30] – A small, intimate restaurant offering delicious Italian cuisine, often with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients from Jeju.
JUNGDAE [$15-$30] – A creative fusion tavern that incorporates fresh, local Jeju ingredients into modern and inventive dining bar dishes.
Perlo [$20-$35] – A charming Italian restaurant in a quiet small town on Jeju, offering local-style pasta and pizza in a relaxed setting.
Somos [$35-$55] – A stylish and upscale black pork restaurant that presents the local delicacy in a more modern, refined atmosphere with various cuts available.
EQ Table BBQ Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers high-quality Jeju Black Pork barbecue with a contemporary feel and excellent service.
Haevichi Hotel & Resort Jeju mer-and-terre [$50-$80] – Located in a resort, this restaurant provides a modern dining experience with an emphasis on Japanese cuisine, including sushi omakase.
Jeju Orange Chicken [$20-$35] – Offers a creative take on Korean fried chicken by coating it with a unique, sweet and tangy tangerine/orange sauce.
Poongro (Jungmun Branch) [$60-$100] – An upscale Korean BBQ house that offers a high-quality Butakese course, featuring expertly dry-aged and grilled Jeju black pork.
GOZIPDOL WOLUCK [$40-$70] – Known for its refined interpretation of traditional Jeju seafood and meat dishes, focusing on the island’s unique and authentic tastes.
Hachi [$80-$130] – A high-end sushi omakase spot with a great view, where the chef prepares exquisite sushi using local, freshly caught Jeju fish.
Sushi MATANE [$70-$120] – A delicious and private sushi restaurant overlooking the Aewol Sea, offering high-quality omakase courses.
Lumiere [$90-$150] – A fine dining restaurant specializing in contemporary French cuisine, meticulously prepared using ingredients sourced directly from Jeju Island.
Bon Plat Bon Vin [$50-$80] – A sophisticated French bistro that masterfully incorporates Jeju’s local produce, like black pig liver and duck, into classic French dishes.
Seaes Dining [$50-$90] – Located in a hotel, this dining spot offers a modern reinterpretation of Jeju traditional cuisine with a panoramic ocean view and fresh seasonal ingredients.
Unidam [$40-$70] – A restaurant specializing in high-quality sea urchin dishes and fried tilefish (Okdom), which are local Jeju delicacies.
Abang D [$40-$70] – A high-end spot in a beautiful location, known for its creative and contemporary Korean fine dining experience.
Black Pork Street [$25-$45] – Not a single restaurant, but a whole street in Jeju City lined with numerous Black Pork BBQ places, offering a lively and essential Jeju dining experience.
Wanggwan Restaurant – Black Pork Branch [$20-$35] – A popular, dedicated black pork BBQ spot offering flavorful grilled pork dishes with various set menu options.
Lee Jung Seop Street Cafes [$10-$20] – The street near the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is lined with unique cafes and restaurants, perfect for a coffee break and a light snack.
Cafe Hallasan [$10-$20] – A unique, picturesque cafe with vintage interiors and stunning ocean views, famous for its signature Jeju Carrot Cake.
Osulloc Tea Museum [$5-$15] – A famous cultural stop that offers delicious green tea-based snacks, desserts, and beverages, surrounded by beautiful tea plantations.
Cafe Muro [$5-$15] – Located on Udo Island (a short ferry ride), this cafe is popular for its signature Peanut Ice Cream and Basalt-themed ice cream, inspired by the island’s nature.
The Landing Cafe [$10-$20] – Known for its artistic and photogenic desserts like the Lemon Mousse cake, with a cozy ambiance and high glass ceilings.
Gamttanam Cafe [$10-$20] – A hidden gem where you can enjoy tangerine-laden beverages and snacks amidst a serene local tangerine garden.
Samseonghyeol Haemultang [$30-$50] – A dedicated seafood stew restaurant famous for its large portions of fresh seafood hot pot, great for groups.
Ummm [$30-$50] – A quiet village restaurant that offers a simple, delightful multi-course meal, focusing on the freshest seasonal ingredients.
Café Knotted [$5-$10] – A trendy spot famous for its cream-filled donuts and exclusive Jeju-themed beverages, representing the island’s modern cafe culture.
May Eel Restaurant [$25-$40] – Specializes in various fresh and incredibly well-prepared eel dishes, offering a taste of authentic local seafood cuisine at reasonable prices.
Yongi Sikdang [$15-$25] – A humble local eatery popular for its simple, traditional Jeju stews and side dishes.
Deokseongwon [$15-$25] – A well-regarded Chinese restaurant in the area, offering quality jjamppong (spicy seafood noodle soup) and other Chinese-Korean favorites.