Hiking the Haeparang Trail: A Two-Day Adventure
강원특별자치도 양양군 손양면 수산리 89-12
수산항마리나
There are moments in life sometimes labeled as a mid-life crisis or simply a period of deep worry where the only answer is to start walking. On August 23, 2025, I set out to conquer a section of the Haeparang Trail, the legendary coastal path that stretches along Korea's East Sea. Starting from Susan Port(수산항마리나) in Yangyang and ending at Jumunjin Port in Gangneung, this two-day trek was a deliberate attempt to trade urban anxieties for the rhythmic sound of crashing waves and the physical challenge of a seven-hour march under the scorching sun.
In this guide, I recount a journey of "reverse trekking" through Course 43 and 44, featuring local culinary gems recommended by taxi drivers, the "oasis-like" convenience stores of Mung Beach, and the kind of outdoor BBQ that makes everything else disappear. From the serene grounds of Hyuhyuam Temple to the bustling energy of Jumunjin, this trip was about more than just mileage; it was about creating lasting memories with a friend and finding satisfaction in the simple act of moving forward.
Day 1: Yangyang Energy and the "Spotlight" Meal
The trek began at Susan Port, the junction of Haeparang Courses 43 and 44. Following a local tip from our taxi driver, we fueled up at Matgol Restaurant, famous for its mussel soup and cockle bibimbap. A bottle of raw makgeolli provided the necessary initial boost for the seven-hour walk ahead. As we passed through Hajodae Beach—a future snorkeling destination for sure—and moved toward Jukdo Beach, the East Sea scenery acted as a constant balm for the soul.
A Culinary Highlight at Mung Beach
After a grueling day, we found ourselves at an outdoor BBQ restaurant near Mung Beach. The pork belly and grilled squid were exceptional, but the true star was the soybean paste stew. It was so delicious that for a moment, the world around me turned black and a pin spotlight hit me—true "Delicious Guys" style intoxication from a single bite. It was the perfect reward for a day spent battling the summer heat.
Day 2: Crossing into Gangneung
Day two was a lesson in the sheer scale of Yangyang. We eventually crossed the border into Gangneung City, aiming for Jumunjin. Along the way, we visited the tranquil Hyuhyuam Temple, a coastal sanctuary where the waves literally wash over the temple rocks. The trek eventually concluded at Jumunjin Port, though not without a minor sprained ankle from looking at a phone instead of the trail—a reminder to always look ahead!
Trekker's Logistics & Tips
- Transportation: The Sunday bus from Gangneung back to Dong Seoul Terminal takes about 4 hours. Booking in advance is non-negotiable.
- Trail Direction: We trekked in reverse (Southbound), which offered a unique perspective on the coastline.
- Oasis Stops: Look out for the superstar convenience stores at Mung Beach for a quick ice cream break.
Haeparang Trail Photo Gallery
Walking the Haeparang Trail is a powerful way to clear the mind and test the body. Have you ever attempted a multi-day trek along the coast, or do you have a favorite "soul food" stew that fixes everything? If you're planning a trip to Yangyang, would you prefer the adrenaline of snorkeling at Hajodae or the quiet reflection of a coastal temple? Let me know if you'd like me to recommend more Blue Ribbon-worthy restaurants along the East Coast!
Would you like me to help you plan the next leg of your journey, from Jumunjin Port to Jeongdongjin?
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