If you’ve been following our youtube channel then you’ll know we are always walking, always hiking and always on the hunt for epic views. This meant that during 2 weeks in South Korea we knew we had to make it over to Sokcho to climb up to Ulsanbawi rock in Seoraksan National Park. We’d seen a few pictures online and that alone was enough to convince us to take the 2 and a half hour bus journey from Seoul to Sokcho one morning back in June 2019. If, like us, you’re up for a challenge and an experience far from the crowds of Seoul, then head over to Sokcho and do the hike up to Ulsanbawi rock. It’ll be an experience you’ll never forget.
Check out our vlog from the hike below:
7.4km
total distance
560m
elevation
4+ hours
hiking time
How to get there & where to stay
We stayed in Sokcho, a 2 and a half hour bus journey east from the centre of Seoul. The journey is comfortable and fairly priced at approximately £10-15. Once in Sokcho we stayed at James Blue Hostel, a good choice if you’re looking for a budget friendly, centrally located hostel. A double room will set you back approximately £25 per night which includes a very basic breakfast of toast and coffee. It also happens to be just set back off the main road where you’ll be getting the bus to Seoraksan NP and the owner, James (of course) is very friendly and more than happy to advise on things to do.
On the morning of the hike catch the number 7 bus from the main road (Jungang-ro – see the map at the top of this blog post). The journey to the national park entrance will take around 30 – 60 minutes depending on your bus driver (ours thought he was in Fast & Furious) and will only set you back 1260 KRW (just under £1 GBP).
The trail
Once you arrive at the park, you’ll need to pay a small 3500 KRW entrance fee (approx £2.40). At the entrance you’ll find all the necessities such as toilets, cafes and clear signage to different parts of the park. There are a few different restaurant options in case you’ve forgotten to bring those all important hiking snacks.
The hike, which is considered difficult, is a relatively short trail at 7.4km (return) but warrants its difficulty rating thanks to the hundreds of stairs at the last part of the trail. Whilst the hike may not be the longest we’ve ever done, it sure did take it out of us and is not for the faint-hearted. Personally, I’d recommend a good level of fitness to take this one on (or at least, if you want to enjoy it). After all, you want to make it to the top in one piece!
The trail to Ulsanbawi rock begins at the entrance to the park and is relatively flat and sheltered for the first couple of kms. However, don’t let that deceive you (as it did us), the real work is in the last few hundred metres to the top. Something to bear in mind is that the final part of the trail is very open to the elements and may not be for you if you have a fear of heights (see the below photo as proof!).
On a practical note, the trail is well sign-posted with distance markers and a clear path throughout. There are rails at steeper points, on the stairs and at the peak, making it ever so slightly easier on the uphill climb.
Epic climbs for epic views
Once you’ve managed all of those stairs (do they ever end?) you’ll find yourself at the top of Ulsanbawi Rock. With multiple viewing platforms you’ll have views in almost every direction for miles. It is a truly spectacular sight and one that makes that challenging climb worth it. It’s also a great chance to take a breather before making the descent back to the entrance. Snap some photos, have a snack then head down to catch the bus back into town or explore more of the national park for the afternoon.
What to take
As with any day hike you’ll need all of your hiking essentials: quality hiking boots (trail trainers would also work) and socks, appropriate clothing (breathable layers are always good), plenty of water, some dry snacks and a small bag to take your rubbish with you plus a camera and sunscreen/waterproofs depending on the season! I wouldn’t say you need a map or compass or anything to that effect as it is a very well laid out trail with a clear path and markers.
This hike was without a doubt one of the highlights on our 2 week trip exploring South Korea. It’s such a great way to get out of the city and see something a little different. Plus, it’s an easy (and comfortable) bus ride from Seoul that won’t break the bank – hello budget friendly activity!
Have you been to Seoraksan National Park? Let us know in the comments!
Happy adventuring,
Lorna
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SOUTH KOREA VLOG SERIES
We have a whole vlog series on youtube from our trip to South Korea – check them out over on our channel by clicking below.
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