FechTin Go · South Korea · Jeju

Hallasan Mountain

LG전자 · CC BY 2.0

Korea's highest peak — a dormant volcano with a crater lake sitting right on its summit.

The whole of Jeju is really the flank of Hallasan; wherever you stand on the island the summit appears and disappears behind cloud. The climb to Baengnokdam crater takes about nine hours return, through broadleaf forest, then dwarf forest, then open windswept grass. At the top lies the crater lake — where, legend says, immortals rode down on white deer to drink. In spring azaleas turn the slopes purple; in winter deep snow makes Hallasan the country's favourite snow climb.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Hallasan Mountain?

May (azaleas) and October (clear skies)

How much does it cost to visit Hallasan Mountain?

Free, but the two summit trails (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa) require an advance reservation on the national park booking site

How long do you need at Hallasan Mountain?

Full day

What are the opening hours of Hallasan Mountain?

Ascent starts at 05:00 (06:00 in winter); control points turn hikers back around 12:00–14:00 depending on trail and season — on Seongpanak you must pass the Jindallaebat shelter by 11:30. Up and down the same day; camping is banned

Did you know

• At 1,947m it is the highest point in South Korea.
• Part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage 'Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes'.
• The Baengnokdam crater lake is about 550m across.
• Only the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails reach the summit.
• Park rangers cap departure times — late starters are turned back at the checkpoints.

Travel tips

• Reserve your climb online in advance; both summit trails limit numbers.
• Set out before 6am to be back down before the trail closes.
• Weather turns fast — always carry a windproof layer and water.

Source: https://visithalla.jeju.go.kr/reservation/status.do

Updated: 2026-08-05