Best South Korea National Parks

If you’re planning to visit South Korea, be sure to include (at least!) a couple of the country’s best national parks in your itinerary. Covering remarkably diverse ground — think rugged mountains, coastal cliffs, and lush forests that conceal ancient temples — read on to discover the best South Korea national parks to have on your radar.

Why visit South Korea’s national parks

Whether you’re into adventure of the more high-octane variety, or prefer enjoying soul-stirring strolls that embrace the joys of slow travel, there are stacks of reasons to visit South Korea’s national parks.

Indeed, visiting them is among the best things to do in South Korea, no matter what time of year you visit — picture blooming cherry blossom in spring, and gloriously golden hues in fall.

Also offering a diversity of landscapes (from granite peaks, to thick forests) that variously play host to incredible wildlife-watching experiences and cultural treasures (think everything from spotting Asiatic black bears, to exploring ancient fortresses), including national parks in your South Korea itinerary can’t come more highly recommended.

Top 10 National Parks in South Korea

Your journey to discovering the joys of South Korea National Parks starts right here as we run through the top ten in the country, many of which are handily easily accessed from cities, and well-served by public transport.

1. Seoraksan National Park

Serious trekkers and nature-loving day-trippers alike are very likely to adore Seoraksan, which serves some of South Korea’s most spectacular natural experiences.

A bedazzlement of jagged granite peaks, lush valleys, and ancient temples, Seoraksan National Park is located in Gangwon Province, northeast South Korea, near the coastal city of Sokcho.

Part of the Taebaek Mountain range, here hardcore hikers can tackle the trek to Ulsanbawi Rock — a challenging but rewarding 4km experience that serves sublime panoramic views.

Meanwhile, while culture-minded visitors could take the cable car to Gwongeumseong Fortress, and visit Sinheungsa Temple, with pretty easy trails to Biryong Falls and Yukdam Falls likely to please everyone.

Best time to visit: it’s hard to pick one single best season to visit, but late-September to early-November is especially rewarding, thanks to the dazzling fall foliage and crisp weather that’s ideal for hiking. Alternatively, spring (April to June) offers fragrant blossoms and greenery ahead of the more crowded summer season.

How to get there: take an express bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Sokcho (2.5–3 hours), and then take a local bus or taxi (approximately 20 minutes) to Seorak-dong, Seoraksan’s main entrance.

2. Jirisan National Park

Located in southern South Korea, and spanning three provinces (Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, and Gyeongsangnam-do), Jirisan National Park is South Korea’s first national park. It's also the biggest terrestial national park.

Overlooked by Jirisan Mountain, the second-highest peak in South Korea, Jirisan is celebrated for its remote mountain temples, lush valleys, forested trails and rich biodiversity. For example, Jirisan is home to Asiatic black bears, wild boars, and a whopping number of bird species.

Best time to visit: October is a fabulous time to visit — the forest trails are aglow with the orange, reds and golds of fall.

How to get there: from Seoul, take an intercity or express bus to one of the park’s main access towns, such as Namwon, Gurye or Jinju (3–4 hours). From there, take a local bus or taxi to the nearest park entrance (e.g. Gurye is close to Hwaeomsa Temple).

3. Hallasan National Park, Jeju Island

A designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hallasan National Park is located in the center of South Korea’s Jeju Island, and home to Hallasan Mountain — a massive shield volcano that’s also the country’s tallest peak.

Serving a dramatic mix of lava formations, alpine forests and crater lakes, experienced hikers come here to tackle the summit of Baengnokdam Crater Lake, and trek the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails.

Meanwhile, trails like Yeongsil and Eoseungsaengak are more moderate, yet still offer scenic views.

Best time to visit: in our view, JeJu is best visited in spring, when wildflower blooms are at their most impressive.

How to get there: from Jeju City, take a local bus or taxi (30-40 minutes) to one of the park’s main trailheads i.e. Seongpanak (east side) or Gwaneumsa (north side).

4. Bukhansan National Park

Located on the northern edge of Seoul — and for sure one of the best things to do in South Korea as a whole — Bukhansan National Park is a mountainous wilderness escape within very easy reach of all the city’s urban allures.

Often called the “lungs of Seoul", it boasts dramatic granite peaks that are ripe for rock climbing adventures, plus forested trails, Buddhist temples, ancient fortress ruins and panoramic city views.

Basing yourself in the city? Read up on the best area to stay in Seoul.

Best time to visit: while there’s no bad time to visit we favor spring (April–June) for the fresh weather and blooming wildflowers, and summer, when it offers a welcome break from the humid city. 

How to get there: from central Seoul, take the Subway Line 3 to Gupabal Station, then Bus 704 to Bukhansanseong Information Center, one of the main trailheads. Alternatively, take Line 4 to Suyu Station and a short taxi or bus ride to the Doseonsa Temple entrance.

5. Naejangsan National Park

Located in the Jeolla area of southwestern South Korea, Naejangsan National Park boasts especially vibrant fall foliage, serene valleys speckled with waterfalls, and historic temples. 

Centred on Mount Naejangsan, here you can ride a cable car to Yeonjabong Peak, explore tranquil Naejangsa Temple, and hike to Dodeokpokpo and Geumseonpokpo Waterfalls.

Best time to visit: late-October to mid-November is the peak period for fall foliage — think dazzling red-and-gold maple leaves. Spring comes out as second-best, thanks to the bounty of cherry blossoms and azaleas.

How to get there: from Seoul, take a KTX train from Yongsan Station to Jeongeup Station (approx. 1.5–2 hours). From Jeongeup Station, take Bus 171 or a taxi to Naejangsan National Park entrance (about 30 minutes). It’s also accessible by intercity buses from major cities like Daejeon and Gwangju.

6. Gyeryongsan National Park

Located near the city of Daejeon in Chungcheong, central South Korea, Gyeryongsan National Park is named after Mount Gyeryongsan (which means “rooster dragon mountain”), and renowned for its rocky peaks, dense forests, ancient temples and legends.

As such, it’s one of the best South Korea national parks for travelers seeking a sublime blend of scenic trails, cultural heritage, and spiritual connections.

On that subject, the serene Donghaksa Temple is a must-visit, with its historic halls and tranquil mountain setting, while the forest-surrounded Gapsa Temple is one of the oldest in the country.

Best time to visit: again, fall comes out as the best time to visit this South Korea National Park. The temple paths look all the more enchanting at this time of year.

How to get there: from Seoul, take the KTX or ITX train to Daejeon Station (1–1.5 hours), then take a local bus or taxi to one of the park’s main entrances. Alternatively, use intercity buses to Gongju, which also has access to the park.

7. Deogyusan National Park

Scenically sited in North Jeolla (Jeollabuk-do) and South Gyeongsang Province in central South Korea, Deogyusan National Park is best known for its rolling alpine peaks and the popular Muju Deogyusan Ski Resort, which has slopes for all skill levels.

In fact, this is one of the world’s top skiing and snowboarding destinations.

Snow activities and epic hikes aside (you could, for example, tackle the Hyangjeokbong Peak), Baekryeon Temple (Baekryeonsa), nestled in the mountains, gives this national park a reflective quality. 

Best time to visit: though a year-round destination, head here in winter (December–February) for skiing and snow-covered trails in a winter wonderland setting.

How to get there: from Seoul, take an express bus to Muju (approx. 3.5–4 hours), then a local bus or taxi to Muju Resort or Seolcheonbong trailhead. Alternatively, take a KTX to Jeonju followed by a bus to Muju.

8. Chiaksan National Park

Located near the city of Wonju in north-eastern South Korea, Chiaksan National Park offers steep forested slopes, dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and historic temples. 

Less crowded than many of the other best South Korea national parks, it’s perfect for peaceful hikes, natural beauty, and spotting wildlife, like deer and black bears.

If you’re into culture, note that Guryongsa Temple has seen 1000+ years of history, and its waterfall setting is divine. 

Best time to visit: on balance, spring (April–May) and summer are the best times to visit Chiaksan National Park. While the former offers blooming azaleas and cherry blossoms, the latter is the perfect time to stroll shady green trails and hike to refreshing waterfalls.

How to get there: from Seoul, take an intercity bus or KTX train to Wonju (1.5–2 hours). From Wonju, take a local bus or taxi to the park’s main entrance.

9. Songnisan National Park

Located in Chungcheongbuk-do central South Korea (its main access point is the town of Beopjusa), the magic of Songnisan National Park is best summed up by the meaning of its name — “to leave the world and enter the mountains”.

Indeed, the park’s centrepiece is Mount Songnisan, with hikes to the Cheongdongmireukbong Peak, Seounam Rock and Munjangdae Peak enjoyed by experienced hikers.

At the same time, the park also boasts a bounty of beautiful well-maintained paths for all ability levels.

Meanwhile, those with an interest in culture — and a hankering for serenity ­— will want to explore the expansive Beopjusa Temple. At 33-meters-tall, its Golden Maitreya Buddha is the tallest seated Buddha in South Korea.

Best time to visit: head here in fall for fine foliage and perfect hiking conditions, or else visit in spring to be dazzled by wildflowers and cherry blossoms. 

How to get there: from Seoul, take an express bus to Songnisan Terminal (approx. 2.5–3 hours). The park entrance and Beopjusa Temple are within walking distance.

10. Dadohaehaesang National Park

Covering a vast expanse of islands, coastal waters, and rocky islets off the country’s southwest coast, it’s clear why Dadohaehaesang National Park was so named — it means “sea of many islands”, and counts Wando, Heuksando, Hongdo and Geomundo islands within its boundary. 

Also South Korea’s largest national park, Dadohaehaesang is renowned for its marine biodiversity, dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and unique island cultures.

Best time to visit: though hot and popular, head here in summer for island hopping adventures and idyllic swimming conditions.

How to get there: from Seoul, take a KTX or express bus to Mokpo (2.5–3.5 hours), then transfer to ferries for islands like Heuksando, Hongdo, or Geomundo.

How to visit the national parks in South Korea

Inspired to include some of South Korea’s national parks in your itinerary? Read on for a few practical South Korea travel tips to make your experience all the smoother.

Safety and etiquette in South Korea’s national parks

Good news! South Korea’s national parks are well-maintained, safe, and many trails are eminently accessible, with clear signage and plenty of facilities e.g. rest areas, shelters, and ranger stations. 

That said, some trails are more demanding, and therefore demand taking extra care, It's also advisable to follow a few general safety and etiquette guidelines while exploring South Korea’s splendid National Parks, as shared right below.

General safety guidance

• Always stick to marked trails, especially in mountainous or forested areas.
• Start early — many parks restrict summit access after a certain time (usually mid-day) for safety. 
• Check weather forecasts. Sudden changes, especially in mountain regions like Seoraksan and Jirisan, can create risky conditions.
• Wear proper gear. Trails can be steep and rocky, so sturdy shoes are essential, as is bringing plenty of water.
• If you’re hiking alone or tackling remote areas, always inform someone of your route.

Trail etiquette 

• Keep noise to a minimum — many visitors hit the parks for peace and meditation.
• Don’t leave any trash and use designated recycling bins.
• Respect religious sites by dressing modestly and staying quiet.
• Smoking and lighting open fires is strictly prohibited.
• Camping is only allowed in designated areas

Trails requiring extra caution

• Seoraksan National Park: Ulsanbawi Trail is steep with metal stairs, narrow ridges, and slippery granite (not ideal in icy or rainy weather), while Daecheongbong Peak (the highest in Seoraksan) is a long and exposed trail, requiring an early start and good fitness.
• Jirisan National Park: Cheonwangbong Peak is a multi-hour, high-altitude climb, and overnight hikes involve stays in mountain shelters.
• Hallasan National Park: summit hikes via Gwaneumsa or Seongpanak are long, with strict entry/exit time rules. Winter snow can make trails hazardous.
• Chiaksan and Deogyusan National Parks: these are steep, forested, and rocky in places, and have less tourist infrastructure.
• Bukhansan National Park: though largely accessible, its granite peaks involve rock scrambles and exposed ridges.

When’s the best time to go?

As touched on above, the best time to visit South Korea to enjoy its national parks will depend on your general preference for scenery (bright spring blossom, fiery fall hues, or snow-shrouded scenery?), and the kinds of activities you most want to enjoy. 

For the most part, spring and fall come out as the best times to visit most of the national parks, which tend to be resplendent in spectacular seasonal livery, with some exceptions being those parks that invite snow-related activities. 

For broader context to help you plan your trip to South Korea, here’s an overview of what to expect of the weather in terms of temperatures and conditions across the country’s seasons.

Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms and average temperatures of 50–68°F (10–20°C), with temperatures rising to 86–95°F (30–35°C) in summer (June–August). Summer is also humid, and includes a monsoon season, with heavy rain common in July. 

Fall heralds all that fabulous foliage we’ve been raving about, and largely clear skies, with temperatures pretty much on a par with spring, with a range of 50–72°F (10–22°C).

Meanwhile, winter (December–February) is cold and dry, with average temperatures of 20–41°F (-6 to 5°C) and lots of snow in central and northern regions.

How to get around the parks

As revealed above, accessing South Koreas national parks is basically a breeze, thanks to their proximity to train stations and bus routes. This is in line with the fact that getting around South Korea is also pretty simple.

As a rule, if a train can’t get you where you need to be, there will almost certainly be a bus, and transport costs are reasonable, even taxis.

When it comes to getting around the parks themselves, as mentioned above, they’re well-maintained, with many trails accessible to a very broad range of visitors.

South Korea National Parks FAQs

If you’re into facts and figures, keep reading!

How many national parks are there in South Korea?

South Korea has a total of 22 designated national parks.

Divided into three categories — mountain, coastal/marine, and historic — they’re all managed by the Korea National Park Service (KNPS).

What’s the largest National Park in South Korea?

Covering around 2,321 square kilometres, and encompassing hundreds of islands, South Korea’s largest National Park is Dadohaehaesang National Park.

Located in the southwestern coastal region, it’s known for its marine biodiversity and dramatic coastal cliffs, with most of its mass comprising water.

Meanwhile, South Korea's largest terrestial national park is Jirisan National Park, located in the southwest.

What’s the most visited National Park in South Korea?

And the award goes to…Bukhansan National Park! Unsurprisingly, given that it’s located right on the on edge of Seoul, offering easy access to dramatic scenery and wonderful walks on the wild side.

Keen to take a trip to South Korea? Wise up with our guide to how to plan a trip to South Korea, and take inspiration from our expert-curated South Korea itineraries.

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