Ulsanbawi Rock rises sharply within Seoraksan National Park, challenging hikers with its jagged granite peaks and rewarding them with some of the most panoramic views in Gangwon-do. The climb starts through dense pine forests that seem to lean in, as if whispering advice to steady your pace; the rocky trail soon demands focus, with steep stairways carved into the stone pushing you upward. Covering roughly 3.6 kilometers one-way with an elevation gain near 600 meters, the path tests endurance but rarely strays into technical climbing—making good footwear and steady footing essential.

Early in the climb, the trail winds through shaded groves, where cool breezes rustle the needles overhead, giving brief respite during warmer days. As you ascend, the air shifts, growing thinner and cooler, and the forest thins to expose craggy outcrops daring you to peer over their edges. The final approach to Ulsanbawi’s peaks involves steep stone steps, your hands occasionally needed for balance, as the rock surfaces show the history of relentless wind and rain carving shapes as fierce as the mountain itself.

Reaching the summit, sweeping views unfold—valleys stretch out with mighty rivers looping through, and distant ridges rise with layered greens and grays. The Korean Peninsula’s eastern coastline gleams faintly on the horizon, a reminder of how far you’ve climbed. Rest here. Take in the forceful stillness of the rock, the breeze pushing at your jacket, the sun warming your back.

To prepare, pack plenty of water and snacks to fuel your energy, as the hike can take around 3–4 hours round trip depending on pace. Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat, especially in summer. On the trail, sturdy hiking shoes are a must—slick granite and uneven steps demand grip and support. Weather can shift quickly, so layering clothes can keep you comfortable through temperature swings.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual explorer, Ulsanbawi Rock presents a challenge that respects your limits while insisting you engage with the raw mountain character. It’s a hike of contrasts—between forest shade and open heights, between effort and elevation, between earth’s stubbornness and your own steady resolve. When you stand on that granite summit, the vista won’t just reward your effort; it will remind you that this landscape is fiercely itself, unyielding and unforgettable.