Autumn in South Korea is one of the best seasons to visit. All the trees have changed color, and the mountains are dotted with reds, yellows, and oranges. 70% of South Korea is mountainous, which makes for amazing hiking. No trip is complete without a weekend spent hiking in Seoraksan National Park.
Sokcho
Before you can begin your hiking filled weekend, you need to go to the small city of Sokcho. There are a lot of small hotels to choose from, but The House Hostel is an eclectic budget guest house that welcomes everyone. Once you are settled in, you can plan your early morning hike in the park.
Climbing Seoraksan
Seoraksan is the third highest mountain in South Korea reaching 1,708 meters. A hiker’s paradise, in order to climb up the mountain in a day, you will need to leave for the park at 4:00 AM. A day pass to the park costs about $3.50. Once in the park, you will walk by the giant Buddha and begin the slow hike up the mountain. You should be at the summit in the afternoon, and have time to make it down the mountain, although some hikers opt to spend the night.
Korean Barbecue
After coming down the mountain, head back into Sokcho and try one of the many barbecue restaurants. A long day of hiking requires some Samgyupsal and Bulgogi. It will be a weekend to remember.
