Top 4 Winter Hiking Destinations in Korea
As winter arrives, the sight of snowflakes falling from the sky begins to stir excitement in our hearts. This thrill is maximized when we visit hiking spots on snowy days. The crunch of snow underfoot, the snow flowers blooming on branches, and the breathtaking winter scenery provide a unique emotional experience that cannot be felt in the city. If you want to witness such scenes firsthand, embarking on a winter hike is the quickest way.
In particular, South Korea boasts many famous mountains that showcase beautiful winter landscapes. Mountains with high altitudes and low temperatures experience frequent snowfall, leading to early blooming of snow flowers. Today, we have prepared a variety of courses, from beginner-friendly hikes to mountains where you can easily encounter winter scenery via gondolas.
Let’s explore the BEST 4 winter hiking destinations where you can admire the stunning white landscapes.
1. Mount Hambaek
Located in Taebaek and Jeongseon, Mount Hambaek becomes a prominent winter scenery destination. Despite its high elevation of 1,572 meters, most hikers start from Manhangjae, which is over 1,300 meters above sea level, making the actual difficulty level manageable. It is a beloved mountain for those wanting to take a break and enjoy winter hiking on snowy days.
The hiking course is short, leading to the summit via Changokbong. It resembles a leisurely walk rather than a trek, making it ideal for appreciating the snow flowers that bloom on branches immediately after snowfall. If you visit on a day when snow is falling, you will experience the enchanting sight of walking through swirling snowflakes—a truly fairy-tale-like winter landscape.
Winter at Mount Hambaek offers more than just hiking. As you approach the summit, mist and snow create a dreamy atmosphere, and on clear days, you can witness the expansive view of the Baekdudaegan mountain range against the snowy backdrop. With its moderate difficulty, beautiful scenery, and excellent accessibility, Mount Hambaek is confidently recommended as a must-visit winter mountain on snowy days.
2. Mount Sobaek
Straddling Chungcheong and Gyeongbuk, Mount Sobaek is renowned for its winter scenery. Thanks to its topography, which is heavily influenced by northwesterly winds, it experiences frequent snowfall and easy blooming of snow flowers. The course entering from the Danyang area allows for a gentle hike while enjoying the snow scenery, making it popular among winter hiking beginners.
The most recommended route starts from Cheondong, reaches Birobong, and returns, taking about 4 hours. The ascent is not steep, allowing for a relaxed appreciation of the winter scenery. Upon reaching Birobong, the snow flowers blooming along the ridge create a stunning view, and on clear days, you can even catch the sunrise, offering an unforgettable sight.
Mount Sobaek stands out not only for its snow scenery but also for the depth and quality of its landscapes. The sight of snow resting on branches, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the serene silence of the winter mountain create an impression as if time has stopped. If you are looking for a winter hike that warms your heart on a snowy day, Mount Sobaek will be a choice you won't regret.
3. Hallasan
Rising majestically in the center of Jeju, Hallasan is the highest mountain in South Korea and one of the most beautiful winter scenery destinations. You don’t need to reach its peak at 1,950 meters to experience its diverse landscapes through various trails. In winter, the entire mountain transforms into a fantastic sight covered in snow, attracting numerous hikers each year.
For beginners, the relatively short Yeongsil course is recommended. This course combines well-maintained paths with breathtaking cliff views, allowing you to experience the essence of Hallasan in a short time. For those seeking a longer hike, the Seongpanak course that takes you closer to Baengnokdam is also popular. However, access may be restricted during winter due to weather conditions, so checking in advance is essential.
The winter landscape of Hallasan is a work of art in itself. Walking through the snowy forest and across the vast snowfields of the highland is an experience you won’t find easily elsewhere. This mountain, where the warmth of Jeju Island coexists with the cold beauty of Hallasan, becomes even more special on snowy days, making it a winter destination worth visiting at least once.
4. Deogyusan
Located in Muju, Jeonbuk, Deogyusan is truly deserving of its title as 'Korea's Snow Flower Mountain.' The area around Hyangjeokbong offers overwhelming winter scenery that can evoke images of the Himalayan peaks when it snows. One of the main attractions of this mountain is that you can easily reach the snow-covered summit area without strenuous hiking by using the tourist gondola.
The gondola connects to Seolcheonbong, from where it takes about 20 minutes on foot to reach Hyangjeokbong. This structure allows children and elderly visitors to enjoy the snow scenery without difficulty, making it especially popular among family travelers. The view of the white ridges and mountain ranges from the summit is a winter panorama that cannot be replicated in any other season.
Deogyusan is not only renowned for its beautiful snow scenery but also for its considerate trail layouts and excellent resort facilities. With ski resorts nearby, it is perfect for enjoying both winter sports and hiking. It is a place where you can experience all the joys of winter at once, creating special memories on snowy days.
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