Walking Through Serene Beauty: A Journey to Seoraksan

Seoraksan, one of Korea's iconic mountains, is located in Sokcho, Gangwon Province. This mountain showcases different charms throughout the year, but the autumn scenery I experienced was truly breathtaking. The vibrant fall foliage enveloped the entire mountain, and the crisp air made every step feel rejuvenating. 🚗 How to Get There? From Seoul, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach Sokcho Express Bus Terminal. Once you arrive, you can take the **local bus to Seoraksan (Route 7/7-1)** right in front of the terminal. A 20-minute ride will bring you to Seoraksan National Park. 🚍 Tip: If you're driving, use the 'Seoraksan National Park Parking Lot.' However, weekends can be crowded, so arriving early in the morning is recommended! 🥾 Which Trail Did I Take? I chose the beginner-friendly Gwongeumseong + Biryong Falls trail. 1. Gwongeumseong Cable Car From Seoraksan National Park, the cable car takes you to Gwongeumseong Observatory at an altitude of 700 meters in just 5 minutes. From the observatory, you can enjoy panoramic views of Seoraksan's peaks, Sokcho city, and the sea. The view is absolutely stunning and awe-inspiring. ⛰️ Tip: Book your cable car tickets online in advance! Lines for on-site tickets can be long. 2. Biryong Falls Trek After descending from Gwongeumseong, I continued to the Biryong Falls trail. This forest path takes about 1.5 hours round trip. While there are some uphill sections, it’s not overly strenuous. Walking along the stream and listening to the sound of flowing water felt incredibly soothing. Standing in front of the waterfall, the refreshing sound of water and the magnificent view were unforgettable. 🥤 There are benches and small shops along the way where you can rest. Don’t forget to bring water! 🍲 Seoraksan Delicacies After descending, indulging in Sokcho’s local specialties is a must! Near the park, I enjoyed mountain vegetable bibimbap, acorn jelly, and grilled pollack. The post-hike meal tasted heavenly. There are also many famous tofu restaurants nearby, so finding a place to eat is easy. 🧳 Travel Tips • Dress in layers: Morning and afternoon temperatures can vary greatly, so bring a light padded jacket or windbreaker. • Wear comfortable trekking shoes: The Biryong Falls trail includes stairs and rocky paths, so non-slip footwear is essential. • No entrance or parking fees, but the cable car is paid (11,000 KRW round trip for adults). ⸻ 🌅 Final Thoughts Seoraksan is not just a mountain; it’s a special place where you can experience the beauty of the seasons in a single day. Walking through the colorful foliage, enjoying the expansive views from the observatory, and listening to the soothing sounds of the stream are moments that remain vivid in my memory. If you’re feeling worn out by daily life, consider a trip to Seoraksan. It’s an experience that will lighten your heart with every step.