Hallasan — Korea's Highest Mountain
Rising in the center of Jeju Island, Hallasan (1,947m) is Korea's highest peak and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The climb toward Baengnokdam, the crater lake the volcano formed, is a bucket-list item of any Jeju trip.
Season by season
- 🌸 Spring — royal azalea colonies on the ridges, peaking May–June
- ☀️ Summer — green forests and a cool highland climate
- 🍁 Autumn — foliage, silver grass, and clear views
- ❄️ Winter — snowscapes. A snowy Hallasan is the pinnacle of Korean winter hiking.
Courses
- Seongpanak Course — to the Baengnokdam summit, the most common route
- Gwaneumsa Course — steep, with grand scenery
- Yeongsil Course — crags and azaleas; not to the summit, but the best views
Nearby
The oreum hills and coast of eastern Jeju, and the Saryeoni Forest Path, are close.
Photo tips
The summit crater is only clear on fine days. The Yeongsil Course in azalea season (May–June) is a photo highlight.
Visitor info
- Getting there: Bus from Jeju City or Seogwipo to the Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa trailheads
- Summit climb: The Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa courses require advance reservation — check before visiting
- Climate & clothing: Highland weather changes fast. Even in summer the summit is cool — a windproof jacket is recommended.