Seoraksan National Park Hiking Guide: Ulsanbawi Rock vs. Biryong Falls

When planning your adventure to Seoraksan National Park, Korea’s most spectacular mountain destination, you’ll face a delightful dilemma: which trail should you tackle first?

The iconic Ulsanbawi Rock with its legendary staircase to heaven, or the gentler Biryong Falls nestled in a peaceful valley? Both trails offer unforgettable experiences, but they cater to very different hiking styles and fitness levels. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the perfect trail for your Seoraksan National Park adventure, complete with detailed comparisons, timing tips, and the best Sokcho food to reward yourself after conquering those mountain paths.

Why Seoraksan National Park Should Be on Your Korea Itinerary

Seoraksan National Park stands as South Korea’s crown jewel of natural beauty, drawing over 3.5 million visitors annually to its dramatic granite peaks and pristine valleys. Located in Gangwon Province along the eastern coast, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve transforms completely with each season. Autumn brings fiery reds and golds that have made Seoraksan legendary among photographers, while winter blankets the peaks in snow worthy of a postcard. Spring welcomes wildflowers and rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt, and summer offers lush green forests perfect for escaping Seoul’s heat.

Unlike many Korean hiking destinations that require multi-day backpacking trips, Seoraksan National Park offers accessible day hikes suitable for various fitness levels. The park’s proximity to Sokcho, a charming coastal city just 30 minutes away, makes it an ideal weekend escape. You can summit a mountain in the morning and feast on fresh seafood by the afternoon—a combination that’s hard to beat anywhere else in Korea.

Ulsanbawi Rock: The Iconic Stairway Challenge

Ulsanbawi Rock represents everything dramatic and memorable about Seoraksan National Park. This cluster of six granite peaks rising 873 meters above sea level has become the park’s most photographed landmark, and for good reason. The name "Ulsan" comes from a Korean legend claiming these rocks journeyed from Ulsan city to compete for a spot in the scenic Geumgang Mountains but arrived too late, settling permanently in Seoraksan instead.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 7.4 km round trip (4.6 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 565 meters (1,850 feet)
• Time: 3.5-4 hours total
• Difficulty: Hard

The Ulsanbawi hike begins deceptively easy. You’ll start from Sogongwon Park entrance, passing Sokcho Central Market vendors selling hiking snacks and the impressive Great Unification Buddha statue. The first 2.8 kilometers meander through shaded forest alongside bubbling streams, crossing charming stone bridges and passing Sinheungsa Temple—a 7th-century Buddhist temple where monks still practice today.

Then reality hits. The famous "stairway to heaven" section features nearly 900 metal and stone steps ascending the final kilometer to the summit. These aren’t gentle garden steps—they’re steep, uneven, and relentless. Metal handrails line the exposed sections where the stairs cling to sheer rock faces, with dizzying drops just feet away. Your legs will burn, your heart will pound, but every switchback reveals increasingly spectacular views.

At the summit, three viewing platforms offer 360-degree panoramas. On clear days, you’ll see Seoraksan’s highest peak Daecheongbong to the west, the glittering East Sea to the east, and Sokcho city spread below like a miniature model. The jagged granite formations seem close enough to touch, their white surfaces glowing in the sunlight.

What Makes Ulsanbawi Worth the Sweat:

The views from Ulsanbawi Rock are truly Korea’s best-kept hiking secret. International hikers consistently rank this among their top Korean experiences, not just for the scenery but for the sense of achievement. There’s something deeply satisfying about conquering those stairs, especially when you’re surrounded by Korean hikers in their 60s and 70s who make it look easy.

The trail also passes Heundeulbawi (Rocking Rock), a massive boulder precariously balanced on a smaller base. According to tradition, if you can make it wobble, good fortune will follow you. Thousands try daily—the rock still hasn’t toppled.

Biryong Falls: The Peaceful Valley Walk

If Ulsanbawi Rock is Seoraksan’s adrenaline rush, Biryong Falls is its zen moment. This trail offers the perfect introduction to Korean mountain hiking without the intensity that leaves beginners questioning their life choices. The name "Biryong" translates to "flying dragon," inspired by legends claiming the waterfall’s roar sounds like dragons ascending to heaven.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 4.7 km round trip (2.9 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 163 meters (534 feet)
• Time: 1.5-2 hours total
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Starting from the same Sogongwon Park entrance as Ulsanbawi, the Biryong Falls trail immediately diverges left over a charming arched bridge spanning the rocky Ssangcheon River. The first 1.7 kilometers follow a well-maintained path through dense forest, where Korean pine and maple trees create a natural canopy that keeps the trail cool even on summer days.

The highlight comes at Yukdam Falls, a series of six jade-colored pools cascading down smooth granite slabs. A bright red suspension bridge crosses above the falls—prepare for Instagram-worthy photos and crowds during peak season. The bridge bounces slightly with foot traffic, adding excitement without real danger, though acrophobics might prefer gripping the rails.

Beyond Yukdam Falls, the trail becomes moderately challenging for 400 meters of uneven stone steps leading to Biryong Falls itself. The 16-meter waterfall crashes into a pool where mist creates miniature rainbows on sunny mornings. Wooden platforms provide viewing areas and rest spots perfect for enjoying trail snacks.

Many hikers end here, but adventurous souls can continue another 400 meters up a very steep staircase to Towangseong Falls Observatory. This extension transforms an easy hike into a moderate workout, but rewards you with views of Towangseong Falls, Korea’s tallest waterfall at 320 meters. The observatory platform offers sweeping valley panoramas that rival Ulsanbawi’s views without the extreme elevation gain.

Why Choose Biryong Falls:

This trail excels for hikers seeking nature immersion over summit-bagging. The sound of rushing water accompanies your entire journey, creating a meditative atmosphere. You’ll likely spot Korean chipmunks darting across the path and various bird species in the canopy. The moderate difficulty means you can focus on photography and enjoying the scenery rather than just surviving the climb.

Families with children often choose Biryong Falls because kids can complete it without complaint (mostly). The varied terrain—flat forest paths, suspension bridges, waterfalls—keeps young hikers engaged. It’s also ideal if you’re combining hiking with other Seoraksan activities like the cable car or temple visits, since you won’t be completely exhausted afterward.

Head-to-Head Trail Comparison

Choose Ulsanbawi Rock if you want:

• Instagram-worthy summit views that define Korean mountain scenery
• A serious physical challenge that earns bragging rights
• The full Seoraksan National Park experience everyone talks about
• To test your fitness level before attempting longer Korean hikes
• Sunrise or sunset photography opportunities (requires earlier/later timing)

Choose Biryong Falls if you want:

• A relaxing forest walk with waterfall rewards
• Something achievable even after a morning exploring Sokcho
• To bring children or less-experienced hikers
• To visit multiple attractions in Seoraksan in one day
• A shorter time commitment (under 2 hours vs. 4 hours)

Can you do both in one day? Absolutely. Many fit hikers tackle Biryong Falls in the morning (1.5 hours), grab lunch, then attempt Ulsanbawi in the afternoon (3.5 hours). This makes for a full but rewarding day. However, if you’ve never hiked in Korea before, consider doing one trail per day and using your extra time to explore Sokcho’s food scene or relax at a seaside cafe.

Best Time to Visit Each Trail

Autumn (October-November): The legendary fall foliage season brings Seoraksan’s biggest crowds but most spectacular colors. Maples turn crimson, ginkgos glow gold, and the white granite peaks provide stunning contrast. Expect packed trails on weekends, especially during the peak color window (usually mid-to-late October). Weekday visits offer a more peaceful experience. Temperatures range 10-20°C (50-68°F), perfect hiking weather.

Spring (April-June): Spring brings wildflowers, rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt, and fewer crowds than autumn. Biryong Falls is particularly impressive during this season when water volume peaks. Cherry blossoms bloom in the lower elevations in April, adding delicate beauty to trail entrances. Temperatures climb from cool (10-15°C) to warm (20-25°C), with occasional rain showers that make trails slippery.

Summer (July-August): While hot and humid (25-30°C/77-86°F), summer offers the lushest green landscapes. Biryong Falls becomes a favorite escape from the heat, with its shaded forest path and cool mist from the waterfalls. Ulsanbawi’s exposed sections can be brutal in midday sun—start very early if hiking in summer. Monsoon season (late June-July) brings heavy rain that can close trails, so check conditions before visiting.

Winter (December-February): Seoraksan transforms into a winter wonderland, with frozen waterfalls and snow-dusted peaks. Biryong Falls frozen in cascading ice sheets creates magical photo opportunities. However, winter hiking requires proper equipment (crampons, warm layers) and trails can close due to ice. Ulsanbawi’s metal stairs become treacherously slippery. Only experienced winter hikers should attempt these trails when snow-covered. Temperatures drop to -10°C (14°F) or below.

Pro tip: Visit on weekdays if possible. Weekend crowds can turn the trails into slow-moving queues, especially on the narrow Ulsanbawi stairs where passing is difficult. Korean public holidays also bring massive crowds—check the Korean holiday calendar before planning your trip.

Essential Hiking Tips for Seoraksan National Park

Gear Recommendations:

• Proper hiking shoes with good tread (Ulsanbawi’s stairs are slippery when wet)
• At least 1.5 liters of water per person
• Trail snacks—Korean hikers swear by dried squid, nuts, and sweet rice cakes
• Lightweight rain jacket (weather changes quickly in mountains)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) for Ulsanbawi’s exposed sections
• Hiking poles helpful for Ulsanbawi’s descent (hard on knees)

Logistics: Park entrance fee: 3,500 KRW for adults (~$3 USD). Purchase tickets at the main entrance gates. The park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, with specific hours varying by season. Arrive early—the parking lots fill up by 9 AM on weekends during peak seasons.

Facilities include clean restrooms at the park entrance and halfway points on both trails. The Ulsanbawi trail has a restroom before Heundeulbawi Rock; Biryong Falls has facilities near Yukdam Falls. No food or drink sales exist on the trails themselves, so stock up before entering.

Safety Notes: Korean mountain rescue is excellent, but prevention is better than emergency. The stairs on both trails become extremely slippery in rain or ice—consider postponing your hike if weather is poor. Cell phone coverage is generally good throughout both trails. Emergency numbers: 119 for fire/medical, 112 for police.

Stay on marked trails. Korean national parks strictly enforce this to protect ecosystems. Littering carries hefty fines. Pack out everything you bring in, including organic waste like fruit peels.

Where to Refuel: Sokcho’s Post-Hike Food Scene

After conquering Seoraksan’s trails, your hungry, tired body deserves proper fuel. Fortunately, Sokcho serves some of Korea’s best seafood and regional specialties. The city’s location on the East Sea and proximity to the park created a food culture that perfectly understands what hikers crave.

Ojingeo Sundae (오징어순대): This isn’t the ice cream sundae you’re thinking of. Korean sundae is blood sausage, and Sokcho’s specialty version stuffs whole squid with glass noodles, vegetables, and rice. The squid is then grilled or steamed until tender, creating a unique texture that’s simultaneously chewy, soft, and satisfying. Sokcho Central Market vendors serve excellent ojingeo sundae, where you can watch vendors prepare it fresh.

The combination of protein from squid, carbohydrates from noodles and rice, and savory seasonings provides exactly what exhausted muscles need. Portions are generous enough to share between two people. Price: around 10,000-15,000 KRW.

Dakgangjeong (닭강정): Sokcho’s famous sweet and spicy fried chicken originated here and spread across Korea. Unlike typical Korean fried chicken, dakgangjeong is double-fried for extra crispiness, then coated in a sticky-sweet-spicy glaze and topped with nuts. The original shop, Manseok Dakgangjeong, still operates in Sokcho and attracts hour-long lines during peak season.

The crispy exterior and juicy interior satisfy that post-hike craving for something indulgent. The sugar rush doesn’t hurt either after burning thousands of calories on the trails. Small portions start around 15,000 KRW.

Mulhoe (물회): This refreshing spicy cold raw fish soup is Sokcho’s summer specialty. Fresh raw fish (usually sea bream or flounder) is mixed with ice-cold broth flavored with gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), vinegar, and sugar, then topped with vegetables and seaweed. The result tastes like summer in a bowl—spicy, sweet, sour, and incredibly refreshing.

While mulhoe might seem like an odd choice after hiking, Korean locals swear by it for rehydration and rejuvenation. The combination of cold temperature, spice, and fresh seafood supposedly helps cool down overheated bodies. Chungchosoo Mulhoe is Sokcho’s most famous mulhoe restaurant, featuring a multi-story building with lake views.

Where to Eat:

Sokcho Central Market offers the most variety and authentic atmosphere. Vendors call out to passersby, samples are often available, and prices remain reasonable. Beyond the specialties mentioned above, you’ll find tteokbokki, Korean fish cakes, and makgeolli bread (bread fermented with rice wine).

For a sit-down meal after hiking, Daepo Port’s raw fish restaurants provide fresh seafood with ocean views. You can select your fish from tanks and have it prepared multiple ways—as sashimi, grilled, or in stew. The port atmosphere, with fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, adds to the experience.

Planning Your Seoraksan Visit from Sokcho

Sokcho serves as the perfect base for exploring Seoraksan National Park. This coastal city offers everything hikers need: comfortable accommodations ranging from budget hostels to seaside hotels, diverse dining options beyond the hiking-recovery meals mentioned above, and easy access to the park.

Getting to Seoraksan from Sokcho:

• By bus: Local buses 7 and 7-1 run from Sokcho Express Bus Terminal to Seoraksan entrance (30 minutes, 1,500 KRW)
• By taxi: 15-20 minutes, approximately 8,000-12,000 KRW
• Walking: Possible if staying very close to the park entrance (45-60 minutes)

Getting to Sokcho from Seoul:

• Express bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal
• Journey time: 2.5 hours (can stretch to 4+ hours on busy weekends)
• Cost: approximately 15,000-20,000 KRW one way
• Buses run frequently throughout the day

Accommodation Recommendations: Stay in Sokcho city center for easy access to both restaurants and transportation. The area around Jungang Market offers budget-friendly options within walking distance of great food. Beachfront hotels provide ocean views and relaxation between hiking days but sit farther from the bus terminal.

Book accommodations well in advance for autumn weekends—Sokcho hotels fill up months early during peak foliage season. Weekday visits offer both better availability and lower prices.

Other Seoraksan Activities: If you have multiple days, consider exploring beyond Ulsanbawi and Biryong Falls. The Seoraksan Cable Car offers stunning views without hiking—perfect for recovery days or traveling with non-hikers. Sinheungsa Temple welcomes visitors for peaceful contemplation among ancient buildings. The nearby beaches of Sokcho provide a complete contrast to mountain scenery.

For a post-hike relaxation experience, Bukhansan Mountain View Cafe in Seoul offers inspiration for what to seek in Sokcho—cafes with mountain views where you can reflect on your hiking achievement over quality coffee.

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Whether you choose Ulsanbawi Rock’s dramatic challenge or Biryong Falls’ peaceful embrace, Seoraksan National Park delivers an unforgettable Korean hiking experience. The granite peaks, pristine forests, and thundering waterfalls showcase Korea’s natural beauty at its finest. And when you’ve completed your chosen trail, Sokcho’s distinctive food culture—from ojingeo sundae to dakgangjeong—provides the perfect reward for your hard-won effort.

The real secret? You don’t have to choose just one. Give yourself two days in Sokcho, tackle both trails, feast on all the regional specialties, and discover why Koreans consider Seoraksan National Park their country’s most spectacular mountain destination.

Planning to visit Seoraksan soon? Start training on those stairs—your legs will thank you later! Share your Seoraksan hiking stories in the comments below.