- Only Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails reach the summit crater (Baengnokdam), and both need an online reservation.
- Bookings open on the 1st of each month for the following period on the official Hallasan booking site (visithalla.jeju.go.kr).
- Start early: checkpoints close around midday and rangers turn late hikers around.
- No booking? Eorimok and Yeongsil trails are shorter, stunning and don't reach the summit.
Not ready for the summit? Saryeoni Forest in Hallasan's foothills is a gentle, no-booking alternative. Filmed by me for my YouTube channel, PROMISELAND.
1. The summit reservation
Summit access is limited each day. Book on the official Hallasan National Park reservation site; you'll get a QR code to show at the trailhead with your ID. Popular dates — weekends, autumn colours, snow season — fill up quickly, so book as soon as the month opens. If plans change, cancel so someone else can go.
2. Seongpanak vs Gwaneumsa
| Trail | One way | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Seongpanak (east) | ~9.7 km, ~4.5 h up | Long and gradual, mostly forest. Easiest way to the top. |
| Gwaneumsa (north) | ~8.7 km, ~5 h up | Steeper and more scenic, with valley views. |
A popular plan is up Seongpanak, down Gwaneumsa — you'll need a taxi or bus back to your car. Budget 8–10 hours for the full round trip.
3. Cut-off times
Trails open around dawn. There's a checkpoint partway up each summit trail; if you reach it after the cut-off (around midday, earlier in winter), you won't be allowed further. Times change with the season, so check the official site the week you go.
4. What to bring
- Proper hiking shoes — and crampons from December to March.
- 2 litres of water, lunch and snacks (facilities on the trail are limited).
- Rain jacket and warm layer — the summit is much colder and windier than the coast.
- Headlamp, your ID and the reservation QR code.
5. Getting to the trailhead
Seongpanak is on the 516 Road between Jeju City and Seogwipo and is served by intercity buses; parking fills early. A taxi from Jeju City is easy in the morning. If you'd rather not deal with reservations and transport, a guided hike takes care of the logistics.
Guide, transport and planning handled for you.
Book a guided Hallasan hike →Not a hiker? Browse other Jeju day tours →
FAQ
Do I need a reservation to hike Hallasan?
Yes for the summit trails (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa). Eorimok, Yeongsil and other lower trails don't need a booking.
How long does it take to climb Hallasan?
Most people take 8–10 hours for the round trip to the summit.
When is the best time to hike Hallasan?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Winter brings beautiful snow scenes but you need crampons and warm gear.
Is Hallasan hard?
Seongpanak is long rather than technical. A reasonably fit hiker can do it with an early start.
I'm Promise, a teacher living in Jeju. I film walking tours around the island and write these guides from what I've learned getting around myself. Follow along on YouTube and Instagram.