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Seoraksan from Seoul: Routes, Cable Car and Best Season

The easiest way to reach Seoraksan National Park from Seoul is an express bus to Sokcho, about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, then a local bus to the park's main Seorak-dong (Sogongwon) entrance. From there you can take the Seorak cable car up to Gwongeumseong, walk to Sinheungsa Temple, or hike to Ulsanbawi Rock. Park admission has been free since May 2023, but the cable car still costs extra. Mid-October is usually the best time to go, when the autumn colours peak. A long day trip is possible, but it's more relaxed to stay a night in Sokcho.

Why Seoraksan?

Seoraksan is one of Korea's most famous mountain parks. It has sharp granite ridges, deep valleys, waterfalls and old Buddhist temples, and the East Sea coast is only a short ride away. It's one of the most rewarding nature trips you can take from Seoul. Most of the classic first-timer spots are near the main entrance, so you don't need to be a serious hiker to enjoy it.

Getting there from Seoul

Express bus to Sokcho

Buses to Sokcho leave regularly from Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Gangnam) and Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (Gangbyeon Station, Line 2). Expect about 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic. On autumn weekends the road to Gangwon Province gets busy, so leave early. You can book seats in advance through Korea's express bus booking services or buy them at the terminal. Fares and schedules change, so check them when you book.

From Sokcho to the park entrance

Local buses 7 and 7-1 run from Sokcho to the Seorak-dong area. Ride to the last stop near the park entrance (Sogongwon). The trip takes roughly 30–45 minutes depending on where you board. A taxi from Sokcho Express Bus Terminal is faster and splits nicely between a few people. If you're unsure where to board, look up "설악산 소공원" in Naver Map or Kakao Map. Our Naver Map vs Kakao Map guide explains why Google Maps isn't much help with this.

Join a tour

If you'd rather not deal with buses, there are day tours from Seoul that include transport and often a stop in Sokcho or at a beach. They make for a long day with less time on the trails, but no planning. Compare what's included, especially whether the cable car fare is covered.

Main routes for first-time visitors

Seorak Cable Car to Gwongeumseong (easy)

The cable car leaves from near the main entrance and climbs to a station below Gwongeumseong, the ruins of an old mountain fortress. The ride takes only a few minutes. From the top station, a short but steep, rocky climb leads to the peak, with wide views over the ridges and towards the sea. On busy autumn days, queues for the cable car can run for hours. Head to the ticket office first thing, since tickets are often sold for a set boarding time. Check the official operator's site for current prices and hours. The cable car may stop in strong wind.

Sinheungsa Temple and the Great Unification Buddha (very easy)

A flat walk of a few minutes from the entrance brings you to a huge bronze seated Buddha and then Sinheungsa, a temple with a long history. It's the best stop if you have little time or are travelling with older relatives or kids.

Ulsanbawi Rock (moderate to hard)

This is the classic half-day hike. The trail passes Sinheungsa and Gyejoam Hermitage, with its famous rocking boulder Heundeulbawi, then climbs a long series of steep metal staircases to the top of Ulsanbawi, a massive granite formation. The views are spectacular. Most people need about 4 to 5 hours for the round trip. It's not technical, but the stairs are tiring and can be scary if you don't like heights.

Biryong Falls and Towangseong Falls Observatory (moderate)

Another trail from the entrance follows a valley to Biryong Falls, then continues up a steep section to a viewpoint over the tall Towangseong Falls. It's a good choice if you'd rather have water and forest than big rock views.

Daecheongbong Peak (serious hike)

Daecheongbong is Seoraksan's highest peak and a full-day climb, usually started very early from Osaek or Hangyeryeong rather than the main entrance. Treat it as a separate mountain trip, not a day-trip add-on. Trail sections can close for fire-prevention periods in spring and autumn, so check the Korea National Park Service website before planning it.

Best season to visit

  • Autumn (October): The peak season. Leaves change from the summit down, so the upper slopes turn first and lower valleys colour later in the month. It's beautiful but very crowded, especially on weekends.
  • Spring (April–May): Fresh green slopes and fewer people. Some high trails may be closed for fire prevention.
  • Summer: The valleys and waterfalls are lush, but it's hot and humid, and the monsoon can bring heavy rain and trail closures.
  • Winter: Snow on the granite looks dramatic, but stairs and trails get icy. You'll need crampons (light chain spikes) for anything beyond the flat area near the entrance, and the cable car can stop in strong winds.

Leni from POPORO CITY's advice is simple: "Go on a weekday, take the first bus, and let the mountain have the whole day."

Day trip or overnight?

A day trip is doable if you leave Seoul very early and stick to one main activity, such as the cable car plus Sinheungsa, or Ulsanbawi alone. Staying overnight in Sokcho gives you an early start before the crowds and time for the coast. Sokcho is known for its seafood, Jungang Market and the beaches nearby. If you're carrying your phone for maps and bus times all day, our eSIM vs pocket WiFi guide helps you pick the right data option.

Quick tips

  • Leave Seoul as early as you can. Traffic and cable car queues grow quickly from mid-morning.
  • Wear proper walking shoes and carry water and snacks. Food options on the trails are limited.
  • Bring layers. The mountains are colder and windier than Seoul.
  • Check the Korea National Park Service site for trail closures and sunset-based hiking cut-off times.
  • Park entry is free, but budget for the cable car, buses and food.
  • Book your bus back to Seoul in advance on autumn weekends.

FAQ

Is Seoraksan National Park free?

Yes. The entrance fee that used to be charged at the main entrance was abolished in May 2023. The cable car and parking are still paid.

Can beginners hike Seoraksan?

Yes. Sinheungsa Temple and the cable car to Gwongeumseong suit almost anyone. Ulsanbawi is a step up, with long, steep stairs. Daecheongbong is only for fit, prepared hikers.

How long does Ulsanbawi take?

Most visitors need around 4 to 5 hours for the round trip from the main entrance, including breaks. Start early so you have plenty of daylight.

Is there a train from Seoul to Seoraksan?

There's no train to Sokcho at the moment. Most travellers take an express bus to Sokcho or join a tour. Some combine the KTX to Gangneung with a bus up the coast, but for most people the direct bus is simpler.

When are the autumn leaves best at Seoraksan?

Usually in October. The upper slopes turn first, around early October, and the lower valleys follow later in the month. Exact dates change each year, so check the foliage forecasts before you go.