Rise and Shine

We took an early morning cab ride to Seoraksan National Park, approximately a 12,000 won journey from town. We selected the Ulsanbawi Rock trail, a scenic 3.5 km hike featuring impressive vistas and a temple carved directly into the mountainside. The path begins with a massive Buddha statue and stone bridges crossing a dried riverbed beneath towering forest canopy.

The initial portion of the hike remains relatively flat before reaching a Buddhist temple sheltered beneath an enormous rock formation. Inside this cave-like space, a statue sits surrounded by lit candles along both walls. Beyond the temple, the trail becomes significantly steeper, transitioning to large rock stairs and repeated switchbacks up a cliff face. We found this section physically demanding and took several rest breaks before summiting.

Upon reaching the peak, breathtaking panoramic views reward hikers' efforts. The vista encompasses surrounding mountains and the distant East Sea. Rock climbers can be spotted scaling the far rock face.

Is a Cable Car Cheating?

After consuming quick BiBimBap, the group purchased tickets for the cable car up an adjacent peak, having exhausted our hiking energy. Early ticket purchase is recommended, as we experienced a three-hour wait.

From the cable car station, visitors enjoy a significant temperature drop alongside expansive views stretching toward Sokcho and the sea. A small café provides refreshment at the summit. A short path behind the cable car platform ventures deeper into the mountain.

A five-minute walk leads to a small peak approximately 60 feet tall, featuring sheer drops of several hundred feet without protective fencing or barriers. This unguarded exposure creates an exhilarating wilderness experience.

Ascending this peak requires using ropes anchored to rock with cement footholds—a challenging climb resembling rock climbing without safety equipment, particularly when passing descending hikers on the narrow route.

Heading Home

After navigating Seoul traffic, we barely caught our final bus by four minutes. Sokcho represents a beautiful region with excellent cuisine and exceptional scenery, deserving visitation.