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 trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Hallasan Seongpanak Trail (Summit)
The 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.
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2
Hallasan Gwaneumsa Trail (Summit)
Jeju'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.
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3
Hallasan Eorimok Trail (Non-summit)
An 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.
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4
Hallasan Yeongsil Trail (Non-summit)
A 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.
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5
Jeju Olle Trail Route 1 (Siheung to Gwangchigi)
The 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.
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6
Jeju Olle Trail Route 7 (Most Scenic)
Voted 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.
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7
Jeju Olle Trail Route 9 (Most Challenging)
The 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.
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8
Seongsan Ilchulbong Summit Trail
A 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.
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9
Saryeoni Forest Road Walk
Not 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.
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10
Bijarim Forest Loop
A 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.
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11
Oedolgae Rock Coastal Walk
A 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.
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12
Yeongil Coastal Walk (Olle Trail Route 20)
A 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.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Jeju.
- 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.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Venomous Ussuri mamushi pit vipers inhabit mountain and rural areas — stay on marked trails and watch where you step
Hazard: Rapid weather changes on Hallasan — bring warm and waterproof layers even in summer
Hazard: Sun exposure is intense above the treeline — apply high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat
Hazard: Hallasan summit trails have strict entry cutoff times — missing the cutoff means being turned away
Hazard: Hallasan trails close during severe weather, typhoons, or when the summit area becomes icy/dangerous
Hazard: No water sources on Hallasan above the treeline — carry 2+ liters per person for summit attempts
Hazard: Mobile coverage is limited on Hallasan upper trails — inform someone of your plans before ascending