Jeju Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Jeju.
Jeju is South Korea's largest island province, located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique cultural heritage. Often called the 'Hawaii of Korea,' the island is home to Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak, UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites, and the legendary haenyeo female divers. With a subtropical climate and year-round appeal, Jeju blends natural wonders with modern resorts.
Top Hiking Trails
The best hikes Jeju has to offer.
Hallasan Seongpanak Trail (Summit)
moderateThe most popular summit route to Hallasan's 1,950m peak via the eastern approach, featuring relatively gentle slopes and wooden boardwalk sections through diverse ecosystems from broadleaf forest to dwarf shrub alpine vegetation. The summit crater lake Baengnokdam (White Deer Lake) is a spectacular reward. Online permit reservation required in advance.
Hallasan Gwaneumsa Trail (Summit)
hardJeju's most challenging and scenic trail, ascending via the northern slope through dramatic gorges, ridge walks, and some of the most spectacular scenery on the island. Significantly steeper than Seongpanak with more exposure, the trail rewards with extraordinary views. Online permit reservation required; starts before dawn to complete safely.
Hallasan Eorimok Trail (Non-summit)
easyAn accessible and beautiful trail on Hallasan's western slope that doesn't require permits and reaches the Witseoreum shelter at 1,700m altitude. The trail passes through magnificent old-growth forest with gnarled trees and excellent autumn foliage. No summit access from this trail — but the views from Witseoreum are superb.
Hallasan Yeongsil Trail (Non-summit)
easyA shorter and highly rewarding trail on Hallasan's southern slopes reaching the Witseoreum shelter viewpoint. The trail is famous for spectacular spring azalea blooms in early May, when the hillsides are carpeted in pink flowers. No permit required; excellent for families and casual hikers.
Jeju Olle Trail Route 1 (Siheung to Gwangchigi)
easyThe first and one of the most beautiful routes of the 437km Jeju Olle Trail system, circumnavigating the island's coastal path network. Route 1 follows the eastern coastline past volcanic coastal scenery, traditional fishing villages, and rocky shores. Marked with blue arrows and dotted with convenience stores throughout.
Jeju Olle Trail Route 7 (Most Scenic)
easyVoted the most scenic of all 21 Olle routes, Route 7 follows the spectacular western coastline past Hyeopjae Beach's turquoise waters, Biyangdo Island views, volcanic clifftops, and the charming town of Hallim. A perfect full-day coastal walk.
Jeju Olle Trail Route 9 (Most Challenging)
hardThe most strenuous Olle route with significant elevation change along Jeju's dramatic southwest coast past Sanbangsan volcanic dome, sea cliffs, and the industrial landmark of Sinyangri coast. Despite the difficulty, the scenery is exceptional.
Seongsan Ilchulbong Summit Trail
easyA short but iconic hike to the rim of Jeju's most famous volcanic cone, Seongsan Ilchulbong (UNESCO World Heritage). The 20-30 minute ascent is steep in sections but paved with stone steps and rewards with extraordinary views of the crater, surrounding sea, and Udo Island.
Saryeoni Forest Road Walk
easyNot technically a trail but a magical forest road through a dense corridor of 40-year-old cedar and Himalayan cedar trees, the Saryeoni Forest Road is one of Jeju's most atmospheric and photographed natural features. Most beautiful in spring, autumn, and winter mist.
Bijarim Forest Loop
easyA short but unforgettable walk through Jeju's ancient nutmeg forest, where 800-1,000-year-old trees create a gnarled, atmospheric canopy. The trail is paved and fully accessible, with interpretive signs explaining the cultural and natural significance of the trees.
Oedolgae Rock Coastal Walk
easyA scenic coastal walk along Seogwipo's southern cliffs to the iconic Oedolgae sea stack, with views of the 20m lone rock rising from turquoise water. The walk continues along the clifftop with panoramic ocean views in both directions.
Yeongil Coastal Walk (Olle Trail Route 20)
easyA stunning coastal route in the often-overlooked northwest of Jeju, passing through basalt rock shores, small fishing villages, orange groves, and panoramic ocean viewpoints. Less crowded than more famous routes despite exceptional scenery.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Suitable for most fitness levels including families; paved or well-graded paths; under 3 hours; minimal elevation gain
🟡 Moderate
Requires reasonable fitness; some steep sections; 3-7 hours; 500-1,000m elevation gain typical
🟠 Challenging
Significant elevation, steep sections, longer distances. Good fitness required. 5-8 hours.
🔴 Expert
Technical terrain possible at upper Hallasan in winter; crampons may be needed; experienced hikers only
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Venomous Ussuri mamushi pit vipers inhabit mountain and rural areas — stay on marked trails and watch where you step
- Rapid weather changes on Hallasan — bring warm and waterproof layers even in summer
- Sun exposure is intense above the treeline — apply high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat
- Hallasan summit trails have strict entry cutoff times — missing the cutoff means being turned away
- Hallasan trails close during severe weather, typhoons, or when the summit area becomes icy/dangerous
- No water sources on Hallasan above the treeline — carry 2+ liters per person for summit attempts
- Mobile coverage is limited on Hallasan upper trails — inform someone of your plans before ascending
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 Spring
April-May: Best for Hallasan azalea blooms (Yeongsil trail, May), canola flowers on approach roads, comfortable temperatures. Cherry blossoms on lower approaches. Very popular — trails busy on weekends.
☀️ Summer
June-August: Hot and humid; typhoon risk July-September closes Hallasan summit trails during severe weather. Lower trails manageable in early morning. Coastal Olle trails pleasant with sea breezes.
🍂 Fall
October-November: Optimal conditions — clear skies, comfortable temperatures (12-20°C), spectacular autumn foliage on Hallasan slopes. The best month for Hallasan summit trails.
❄️ Winter
December-February: Hallasan summit trails require crampons/ice axes after heavy snow. Lower trails (Eorimok, Yeongsil) may be icy. Coastal Olle trails remain accessible. Cold but often clear and beautiful.
Explore Jeju's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
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