9-Day Korea Mountain Trek: Seoraksan, Odaesan & Bukhansan with Temple Stay
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have regular aerobic conditioning and experience with day hikes of 4–6 hours and sustained climbs; stair-climbing comfort helps.
Overview
Move from Seoraksan’s raw granite ridges to Odaesan’s cedar valleys and Bukhansan’s urban peaks on a nine-day guided trek that includes a one-night temple stay. Expect steep stair sections, regional foods, and an itinerary tuned to your fitness.
9-Day Korea Mountain Trek: Seoraksan, Odaesan & Bukhansan with Temple Stay
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Morning light slants through pine and larch as the first ridge of Seoraksan looms ahead—granite faces braided with staircases and iron ladders, a wind that seems to want to test every step. On this nine-day loop, hikers move from the high, raw ridgelines of Seoraksan to the quiet, cedar-lined trails of Odaesan and the bomber granite spires of Bukhansan, folding into a night at a working Buddhist temple where bells and chanting mark the day.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early on summit days
Most peak trails clear and cool in the morning—begin hikes at first light to avoid crowds and afternoon weather shifts.
Bring sturdy boots and grip
Trails have steep stone steps and exposed granite; shoes with ankle support and good traction reduce risk of slips.
Respect temple etiquette
Cover shoulders and knees, speak softly, and follow guide instructions during the temple stay to honor local practice.
Pace for elevation change
Short hikes can include sudden 300–600m gains—use trekking poles and take frequent breaks to manage heart rate.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Korean goral (mountain ungulate)
- Eurasian magpie and mixed forest songbirds
History
Many trails were used by monks and villagers for centuries; Naksansa dates back to the 7th century and temples here preserve established monastic routes.
Conservation
All parks enforce trail regulations—stay on marked routes, pack out waste, and support local guides to minimize disturbance to sensitive habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Seoul
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for granite slabs and long stair sections.
Layered clothing system
Quick-dry base layers plus warm mid-layer handle large temperature swings between valleys and ridges.
Waterproof rain shell
Sudden downpours and coastal weather make a lightweight shell indispensable.
spring specific
Trekking poles
Helps with balance on steep descents and reduces knee strain on long days.