Exploring Odaesan National Park in Winter
강원특별자치도 평창군 진부면 오대산로 2
오대산국립공원
Odaesan National Park in winter transforms into a quiet white world shaped by snow, frost, and towering fir trees. From gentle forest walks to rewarding winter hikes, the park offers multiple trekking routes suited to different energy levels.
Whether strolling through the iconic Fir Tree Trail, hiking toward Birobong Peak to see frost flowers, or walking the calm Seonjae-gil forest road, Odaesan provides a deeply healing winter trekking experience in Gangwon Province.
A Winter Wonderland in Pyeongchang
December at Odaesan welcomes visitors with exotic winter scenery formed by snow-laden fir trees and silent mountain paths.
Located in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, Odaesan National Park is known not only for its natural beauty but also as a drama filming location, making winter trekking here both scenic and atmospheric.
Walking through this pure white landscape feels like a gentle pause before the year comes to an end.
Fir Tree Trail: A Nordic-Style Winter Forest Walk
The Fir Tree Trail begins at the Iljumun Gate of Woljeongsa Temple and stretches for about one kilometer.
This flat forest path is the most accessible winter course in Odaesan, allowing visitors to walk comfortably in sneakers or boots without specialized hiking gear.
Snow piled high on tall fir branches creates a Nordic forest atmosphere, making this trail the visual highlight of the park.
A Famous Filming Location in Winter
The trail gained widespread attention as a filming location for the drama Goblin.
With soft light filtering through snowy trees, it has become a popular spot for capturing emotional winter photos surrounded by forest silence.
Birobong Peak Course: Frost Flowers and High Mountain Views
For those seeking a more active winter hike, the course to Birobong Peak offers a rewarding challenge.
At 1,563 meters above sea level, it is Odaesan’s highest peak, yet access is relatively manageable thanks to the nearby Sangwonsa parking lot.
From there, the round trip takes roughly three hours, making it suitable for a focused winter trek.
The Highlight of Winter Hiking
As you approach the summit, frozen moisture forms delicate frost flowers along the trees, creating a tunnel of white crystals.
The contrast between the frost-covered branches and clear blue winter sky leaves a powerful visual impression that defines winter hiking in Odaesan.
Seonjae-gil: A Quiet Forest and Valley Walk
Seonjae-gil is a nine-kilometer healing trail connecting Woljeongsa and Sangwonsa.
Known for its balanced mix of forest paths and valley scenery, it is one of Odaesan’s 대표적인 trekking routes.
In winter, basic equipment such as crampons is recommended, but the trail remains approachable due to its gentle terrain.
Walking Into Stillness
The frozen valley and quiet forest naturally slow your pace, inviting calm reflection as you walk.
Traditional bridges and subtle landscape changes along the way keep the journey engaging without feeling rushed.
Warming Up at Woljeongsa Temple Café
After trekking, many visitors stop by the café located within the Woljeongsa temple grounds.
Housed in a traditional hanok building, it offers a peaceful space to warm up while overlooking the snowy temple surroundings.
Sipping hot jujube tea or coffee here adds a gentle closing moment to a winter walk in Odaesan.
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