Baengnokdam
The crater lake at the top.
Unknown — Public domain · Korea.net / Korean Culture and Information Service — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Sadopaul — CC BY 4.0 · Sadopaul — CC BY 4.0
The highest peak in South Korea, a dormant shield volcano 1,947 metres high that takes up almost the whole centre of Jeju Island: the island is, in effect, its slopes. At the top is a crater holding a small lake called Baengnokdam, and around it lies a national park on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Only two trails reach the summit: Seongpanak, the longer and gentler one (about 9.6 km up), and Gwaneumsa, shorter, steeper and more scenic. The round trip takes eight to nine hours and needs a free advance reservation on the park's official site, as the number of climbers is capped each day. Starting the climb is not allowed after a set time in the morning, which moves earlier in winter. Those who do not want the summit can take the Yeongsil or Eorimok trails. Neither needs a reservation, and both reach a high plateau at about 1,700 metres in roughly two hours, with views of the cliffs and the peak. They suit families with older children better. Entry is free. The weather changes fast and the wind is strong higher up, so carry water, food and a windproof jacket. In winter the trails are under snow and shoe spikes are needed.
The crater lake at the top.
Cliffs and views, no booking.
White trails from December.
Hallasan National Park, centre of Jeju Island; trailheads at Seongpanak, Gwaneumsa, Eorimok and Yeongsil
The two summit trails, Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa, need a free advance reservation on the park's official site. The Yeongsil and Eorimok trails need none, but they do not reach the summit.
Eight to nine hours there and back. Start at dawn, as the climb may not be started after a set time in the morning.