Hallasan at 1,950 metres is South Korea’s highest peak and an extinct shield volcano at the centre of Jeju Island. Here is the complete guide to the trails, the permit reservation system, and what to expect.
Hallasan National Park covers the volcanic mountain at the centre of Jeju Island. The mountain is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, and the two main summit trails offer some of the finest hiking in Korea. A day hike to the Baengnokdam crater lake at the summit and back is one of the signature Jeju experiences for active visitors.
Trail Reservation System
Hallasan requires advance trail reservations for the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa summit trails (the two routes that reach the crater lake). Reservations are made through the Jeju National Park website (visithalla.jeju.go.kr) and the daily limit is strictly enforced, particularly during the peak autumn foliage season (October) and the cherry blossom season (late March to April).
- Booking opens: 1 month before the intended hiking date
- Booking recommended: 2 to 4 weeks for ordinary periods, as early as possible for October and late March
- Cost: Free trial entry
Important: Hikers without a reservation are turned away at the trailhead during busy periods—book before finalizing your Jeju itinerary.
Main Trails
Seongpanak Trail – Most Popular Summit Route
- Distance: 9.6 kilometres one way to the summit (19.2 km return)
- Elevation gain: About 1,100 metres
- Time: About 5 to 6 hours up, 4 to 5 hours down. Allow 10 to 11 hours total.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Gradual gradient for most of the route with a steeper final section.
- Trailhead: Seongpanak Visitor Center on the eastern side of the mountain, accessible by bus from Jeju City.
The Seongpanak trail is the most accessible and most popular route to the Baengnokdam crater lake. The path passes through dense montane forest in the lower sections and opens to alpine scrub near the summit. The crater lake view from the rim is one of Korea’s most extraordinary natural sights.
Time gate: Hikers must reach the summit within a set time (check current gate times on the Jeju National Park website). Typically, no entry after midday for a return day hike. Start by 7 am.
Gwaneumsa Trail – Steeper, Less Crowded
- Distance: 8.7 kilometres one way (17.4 km return)
- Elevation gain: About 1,300 metres
- Time: About 4.5 to 5.5 hours up, 3.5 to 4.5 hours down
- Difficulty: Challenging. Steeper gradient throughout with some rocky sections.
- Trailhead: Gwaneumsa Visitor Center on the northeastern side, accessible by bus from Jeju City.
The Gwaneumsa trail is shorter in distance but steeper and more demanding than Seongpanak. The route passes dramatic rocky gorges and the 1,450-metre Samgakbong peak before reaching the summit. The ascent view at Yongjinoak shelter (about halfway) over the eastern Jeju coast is outstanding.
Eorimok and Yeongsil Trails – Non-Summit Routes
Two shorter trails that do not reach the summit crater but offer excellent Hallasan scenery without the reservation requirement or the full-day commitment. The Eorimok trail on the western side reaches the Manse Dongsan ridge (1,700 metres) with panoramic views. The Yeongsil trail passes through the finest forest section of the mountain. Both are 3 to 4 hours return and accessible without a reservation.
What to Bring
- Water: At least 2 litres per person. The mountain has water points, but trail conditions vary.
- Food: Bring a full day’s food. Summit shelters sell a limited selection of snacks and drinks at high prices.
- Layers: Summit temperatures are 5 to 10 degrees Celsius colder than in Jeju City. Wind chill makes it feel colder. Bring a windproof jacket regardless of the base temperature.
- Footwear: Proper hiking boots are strongly recommended. The trail becomes muddy and rocky in the upper sections.
- Start time: By 7 am for the Seongpanak route. The time gate is enforced, and the descent takes as long as the ascent.
Getting to the Trailheads
Jeju City buses serve both trailheads. From Jeju City Bus Terminal, bus 281 runs to Seongpanak and bus 431 runs to Gwaneumsa. Services begin early and frequency increases during peak hiking season. Journey time is about 30 to 40 minutes from Jeju City. A rental car gives more flexibility for early starts.
