Hallasan Mountain

한라산

South Korea's highest mountain at 1,950 meters, located in the center of Jeju Island with a crater lake at its peak. It's a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts offering stunning panoramic views and diverse alpine vegetation.

Things to do

• Summit Hike to Baengnokdam Crater Lake — Trek to the 1,950-meter peak where a pristine alpine crater lake sits surrounded by rocky peaks, offering the most rewarding panoramic views of Jeju Island and the ocean beyond.
• Seongpanak Trail — One of two main routes up Hallasan, this 9.6-kilometer path from the eastern base features diverse vegetation zones and passes through lush forest before reaching the summit.
• Gwaneumsa Temple Site — Visit the historic temple ruins nestled on Hallasan's upper slopes, offering spiritual tranquility and a cultural perspective on the mountain's religious significance.
• Alpine Botanical Garden Trail — A gentler walk through Hallasan's unique subalpine and alpine flora including endemic species like Hallasan azalea and mountain flowers that bloom seasonally.
• Eorimok Spring Observation Point — Visit one of Hallasan's natural freshwater springs on the western slope, a cool respite during hiking that showcases the mountain's water sources.
• Yeongsil Trail to Witseoreum Ridge — A 4-kilometer route on the western side offering dramatic views of volcanic ridges and the Jeju countryside without requiring a full summit attempt.

Food to try

• Jeju Black Pork (Heugdwaeji Gogi) — Tender grilled pork from Jeju's native black pig breed, best enjoyed at mountain-base restaurants as a celebratory meal after hiking.
• Omegi Tteokguk — A regional Jeju soup made with grain flour dumplings and broth, traditionally eaten by hikers and locals for sustained energy during mountain activities.
• Hallasan Sorghum (Susu) Makgeolli — Local rice wine brewed with Jeju sorghum grown on volcanic soil, distinctive in flavor and available at nearby rest stops and gift shops.
• Godeungeo (Mackerel) Hoe — Fresh raw mackerel sashimi caught from Jeju's waters, prepared with vinegared soy sauce and served as a post-hike protein-rich delicacy.
• Jeju Tangerine (Mandarin) Fresh Juice — Ice-cold fresh-squeezed juice made from Jeju's famous seedless tangerines, perfect refreshment at the trail base before or after your hike.

Local customs & good to know

• Start Hikes Early and Finish by Afternoon — Mountain weather on Hallasan can change rapidly and afternoon clouds obscure the crater lake views, so locals and guides recommend starting before dawn to secure summit conditions.
• Respect Mountain Closure Dates — Hallasan closes seasonally (typically November to March) due to snow and dangerous conditions; check official Jeju tourism websites as dates vary yearly and violations carry fines.
• Bring Proper Gear for Rapid Weather Shifts — The mountain experiences weather changes from temperate forest to subalpine conditions within hours, so locals stress carrying waterproof jackets, extra layers, and sturdy boots even in summer.
• Honor the Mountain's Sacred History — Hallasan holds spiritual significance in Korean culture as a sacred peak; be respectful at temple sites and understand many Koreans view the climb as a personal pilgrimage rather than casual recreation.