Deogyusan mountain peaks and ridges / Majestic natural landscape of Deogyusan mountain peaks and ridges
Deogyusan Playbook

Deogyusan Hiking Playbook

A guide to Deogyusan National Park, one of South Korea's best mountains. Provides detailed routes, practical maps, and tips for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced courses.

Photo byAnthony Taewan Kim/pexels
Beginner Course Overview
Gondola + Hyangjeokbong Peak Round trip 3.2km
Duration 1.5~2h
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit 1,614m
Elevation Difference ±160m
Estimated Calories ~300
Difficulty

Elevation Profile — Hyangjeokbong Peak round trip using gondola

Muju Resort 680mSeolcheonbong Peak 1,520mHyangjeokbong Peak 1,614mGondolaWalking Section
Overall Course Flow
P Muju Resort→ Gondola ride (20 min)→Seolcheonbong Peak 1,520m→Hyangjeokbong Peak 1,614m ★→ Gondola descent→P Muju Resort return

Course Features

  • The easiest course, taking the gondola up to Seolcheonbong Peak (1,520m) and walking only 0.6km
  • Deogyusan National Park's most accessible course, suitable for children, the elderly, and people with disabilities
  • Panoramic view of the main ridge extending from Hyangjeokbong Peak to Jungbong and Namdeogyusan
  • Best course for viewing winter snow flowers — Seolcheonbong~Hyangjeokbong rime ice scenery
  • Gondola fare: 17,000 won for adults (round trip). Check in advance; long waits on weekends.
  • Gondola operations may be suspended during strong winter winds — advance weather check required
Detailed Route by Section
Departure
Departure from Muju Resort Gondola Boarding Area
680m above sea level Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

Starts from the gondola boarding area within Muju Deogyusan Resort Ski Resort. Purchase a ticket (round trip adult approx.

17,000 won) and wait in line to board. It takes about 20 minutes to reach Seolcheonbong (1,520m).

During weekends, holidays, and snow flower season (Jan-Feb), expect gondola wait times of 1 hour or more. Arriving before 9 AM is recommended. Check gondola operating hours (winter season: 08:30-16:30).
1
Seolcheonbong Peak → Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit
One-way 0.6km 20 min Elevation ↑94m
Difficulty

From Seolcheonbong Peak, ascend to Hyangjeokbong Peak along a well-maintained deck trail. The slope is gentle, and stairs are well-installed, making it accessible to everyone. In winter, hoarfrost (snow blossoms frozen on trees) creates a spectacular sight on both sides of the trail.

The temperature at Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit is approximately 5~8°C lower than in Muju town. Be sure to bring warm clothing suitable for the wind chill.
2
Explore and view from Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit
Summit 1,614m 30 min. view
Difficulty

Hyangjeokbong Peak (1,614m) is the highest peak in Deogyusan National Park and the fourth highest peak in South Korea. From the summit, a panoramic view unfolds in all directions, including the main ridge leading to Jungbong Peak (1,594m) and Namdeogyusan Mountain, as well as Jeoksangsan Mountain. You can rest warmly and purchase food inside Hyangjeokbong Shelter.

Ramen and drinks are sold at Hyangjeokbong Shelter. Winter summit wind chill can drop below -20°C, so gloves and a hat are essential.
3
Hyangjeokbong Peak → Seolcheonbong Peak → Gondola descent
0.6km 15 min Descent
Difficulty

Return to Seolcheonbong Peak via the ascended path and descend using the gondola. You can enjoy the scenery of the Seolcheonbong Peak-Resort section even inside the gondola.

There may be long waits for the downhill gondola during peak season. Arrival at Seolcheonbong before the last ride (16:30 in winter) is essential.
Tips & Cautions

Essential Gear

  • Winter clothing/padding (low temperatures at the summit)
  • Gloves·Scarf·Hat
  • Winter: Anti-slip crampons
  • Sunscreen (UV reflection from snow)

Gondola Use

  • Round trip adult approx. 17,000 won
  • Operating hours 08:30-16:30 (winter season)
  • Operations suspended during strong winds or heavy snow
  • Call to confirm operation status before departure

Snowflake Season

  • Rime ice at its peak in January-February
  • Fantastic snow blossoms on the Seolcheonbong Peak~Hyangjeokbong Peak section
  • Crampons required (icy conditions)
  • Weekend wait times can exceed 2 hours

Traffic Information

  • Seoul → Dongseoul Bus Terminal → Muju Bus
  • Muju → Muju Resort Shuttle Bus
  • Daejeon → Muju Express Bus
  • Resort Parking Fee 5,000 won

Seasonal Attractions

—
Spring: Azaleas peak in mid-May
Beautiful azalea colonies coloring Deogyusan's ridges in deep pink
—
Summer: Cool ridge for escaping the heat
Summer ridge hiking while enjoying cool breezes at 1,500m elevation
—
Autumn: Fall foliage mid to late October
Beautiful autumn foliage painting Gucheondong Valley and mountain slopes
—
Winter: Best for snow flowers and hoarfrost
Fantastic rime ice and snow flowers blooming around Seolcheonbong Peak

Useful Information

  • Deogyusan National Park 063-322-3174
  • Muju Resort Gondola 063-320-7000
  • Blackyak 100 Great Mountains certification possible
  • Recommended to check sunrise times for Hyangjeokbong Peak via an app

Gondola-Hyangjeokbong Peak Course Map

Muju Resort PSeolcheonbong Peak 1,520mHyangjeokbong Peak1,614m ★Hyangjeokbong ShelterNWalking TrailGondola Cable
All Checkpoints
1
Muju Resort Gondola Boarding Area Departure
Elevation 680m Cumulative 0km
Amenities: Parking/Ticket Office/Restrooms
2
Seolcheonbong Peak (Gondola Exit) Gondola arrival
Elevation 1,520m Cumulative —
Amenities: Observation Deck/Restaurant
3
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit Summit
Elevation 1,614m Cumulative 0.6km
Amenities: Summit Marker/Shelter/Ramen
4
Seolcheonbong Peak (Return) Gondola Boarding
Elevation 1,520m Cumulative 1.2km
Amenities: Restroom
5
Muju Resort (Descent) Terminus
Elevation 680m Cumulative 3.2km
Amenities: Restaurant area, Ski facilities
Intermediate Course Overview
Gucheondong Loop Traverse 18km
Duration 6~7h
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit 1,614m
Cumulative Elevation Change ±900m
Estimated Calories ~2,000
Difficulty

Elevation Profile — Guchangdong Chilbong Peak loop traverse

Gucheondong 600mChilbong PeakBaengnyeonsa Temple 970mHyangjeokbong Peak 1,614mJungbong Peak 1,594mDongyeopnyeong Pass 1,320mGucheondong
Overall Course Flow
P Guchangdong Visitor Center→Inwoldam→Chilbong Peak→Seolcheonbong Peak→Hyangjeokbong Peak 1,614m ★→Jungbong Peak 1,594m→Dongyeopnyeong Pass→Gucheondonggyegok Valley→P Guchangdong return

Course Features

  • Passes through the entire valley of Deogyusan National Park's Gucheondong 33 Scenic Spots (Bipadam, Guwoldam, Isokdae, etc.)
  • Dual scenery of Gucheondong Valley and Hyangjeokbong Ridge from the Chilbong Ridge
  • Gucheondong Visitor Center (Gucheondong Exploration Support Center) start/finish loop — No vehicle transfer needed
  • Excellent views towards Namdeogyu from the Jungbong (1,594m)~Dongyeopnyeong ridge
  • 18km long distance — Recommended to depart before 8 AM
  • Caution: Steep section on Chilbong Ridge / Crampons required for all sections in winter
Detailed Route by Section
Departure
Depart Gucheondong Visitor Support Center
600m above sea level Anseong-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

Starts from Muju Gucheondong Visitor Support Center. After checking the course and using the restroom at the visitor information center, begin your ascent. Parking available (paid).

Gucheondong is located in Gucheondonggyegok Valley, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, and can be reached by bus from Muju. The Samgong-ri area has a high concentration of guesthouses and pensions.
1
Gucheondong → Inwoldam → Chilbong
Approx. 5.0km 2h 33 Scenic Valley Section
Difficulty

Follow Gucheondonggyegok Valley, admiring the 33 scenic spots of Gucheondong, including Inwoldam and Bipadam, as you ascend gently. The incline becomes significantly steeper once you reach the Chilbong Ridge from the Chilbong fork.

Information signs for Gucheondong 33 Scenic Spots are installed, making it enjoyable to walk while checking each valley landscape. The scenery of autumn leaves, snow blossoms, and fresh greenery is diverse depending on the season.
2
Chilbong Peak → Seolcheonbong Peak → Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit
Approx. 4.5km 2h Main Ridge Access
Difficulty

The section from Chilbong Ridge to Seolcheonbong is a steep approach to the main ridge of Deogyusan National Park. At Seolcheonbong, you will join tourists descending from the gondola for the final 0.6km climb to Hyangjeokbong.

Meals are available at Hyangjeokbong Shelter from Seolcheonbong Peak. It is recommended to replenish energy sufficiently before descending towards Jungbong Peak.
3
Hyangjeokbong Peak → Jungbong Peak → Dongyeomnyeong Pass
Approx. 4.5km 1h 30m Main Ridge Descent
Difficulty

From Hyangjeokbong Peak, proceed along the main ridge via Jungbong Peak (1,594m) to Dongyeomnyeong Pass. The ridge view towards Namdeogyusan Mountain from Jungbong Peak is overwhelming. Descend towards Gucheondong Valley from Dongyeomnyeong Pass.

Some say the view from Jungbong Peak is even better than from Hyangjeokbong Peak. On a clear day, you can see Jirisan National Park and Gayasan National Park.
4
Dongyeopnyeong Pass → Guchangdonggyegok Valley → Return to Guchangdong
Approx. 4.0km 1h 30m Valley Descent
Difficulty

Descend from Dongyeopnyeong Pass towards Anseong District or Guchangdong. If descending towards Guchangdonggyegok Valley, you can visit Baengnyeonsa Temple. Baengnyeonsa Temple (founded by King Heungdeok of Silla) is the highest nunnery in Korea (970m).

From Baengnyeonsa Temple to Gucheondong Exploration Center is about a 4 km valley trail. If you have time, slowly enjoy the 33 scenic spots of the valley as you descend.
Tips & Cautions

Essential Gear

  • Hiking Boots (Waterproof)
  • 2 trekking poles
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Winter: Crampons + gloves

Food & Water

  • Water 1.5L or more
  • Ramen available for purchase at Hyangjeokbong Shelter
  • Lunchbox, Energy Bar
  • Baengnyeonsa Temple's medicinal spring water is available for use.

Safety Rules

  • Depart 7-8 AM (for 18km course)
  • Slippery descent from Dongyeopnyeong Pass to Baengnyeonsa Temple
  • Plan to complete descent before sunset
  • Check mountain entry control times

Gucheondong 33 Scenic Spots

  • Naje Tongmun Gate, Inwoldam, Bipadam
  • Guwoldam, Isokdae, Ansimdae
  • Gucheonpokpo Falls in front of Baengnyeonsa Temple
  • Do not drink stream water

Seasonal Characteristics

  • Spring: Gucheondong's fresh greenery + azaleas
  • Summer: Valley offers ultimate coolness
  • Autumn: Fall foliage peaks in October
  • Winter: Snow flower ridge is breathtaking

Traffic Information

  • Bus service from Muju to Gucheondong
  • Parking available at Samgong-ri (Gucheondong Entrance)
  • Seoul→Dongseoul Bus Terminal→Muju
  • Muju-gun Tourism 063-320-5643

Gucheondong Loop Traverse Course Map

Hyangjeokbong Peak1,614m ★Gucheondong Visitor Center PInwoldam·33 Scenic SpotsChilbong RidgeSeolcheonbong Peak 1,520mShelterJungbong Peak 1,594mDongyeopnyeong Pass 1,320mBaengnyeonsa Temple 970mGucheondong Return PNAscent Route (Chilbong Ridge)Descent Route (Jungbong·Dongyeomnyeong)
All Checkpoints
1
Gucheondong Visitor Support Center Departure
Elevation 600m Cumulative 0km
Amenities: Parking/Restrooms/Information Center
2
Inwoldam (Guchangdong 33 Scenic Spots) Attractions
Elevation 680m Cumulative 2.0km
Amenities: Information board
3
Chilbong Junction Fork in the road
Elevation 870m Cumulative 5.0km
Amenities: Signpost
4
Seolcheonbong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,520m Cumulative 8.5km
Amenities: Gondola Station
5
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit Summit
Elevation 1,614m Cumulative 9.1km
Amenities: Shelter·Ramen
6
Jungbong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,594m Cumulative 10.5km
Amenities: Viewpoint/Rest Area
7
Dongyeopnyeong Pass Anbu (Saddle)
Elevation 1,320m Cumulative 13.0km
Amenities: Fork in the road signpost
8
Baengnyeonsa Temple Temple
Elevation 970m Cumulative 15.0km
Amenities: Restroom, visitor center
9
Return to Gucheondong Visitor Center Terminus
Elevation 600m Cumulative 18.0km
Amenities: Parking/Restaurant Area
Advanced Course Overview
Hyangjeokbong Peak·Namdeogyu Traverse ~27km
Duration 10~12h
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit 1,614m
Cumulative Elevation Change 1,500m
Estimated Calories ~3,500
Difficulty

Elevation Profile — Yukgujongju (Guchangdong → Yuksimnyeong)

Gucheondong 600mHyangjeokbong Peak 1,614mBaegambong PeakDongyeopnyeong PassMuryongsan MountainSatgatbong PeakNamdeogyusan Mountain 1,507mYuksimnyeongHyangjeokbong Peak↑ Section↑Namdeogyu section
Overall Course Flow
P Guchangdong→Baengnyeonsa Temple→Hyangjeokbong Peak 1,614m→Jungbong Peak→Baegambong Peak→Dongyeopnyeong Pass→Muryongsan Mountain 1,491m→Satgatjae Shelter→Satgatbong Peak→Namdeogyusan Mountain 1,507m→ Yuksimnyeong

Course Features

  • Deogyusan National Park Full Ridge Traverse — Guchangdong (Gu-side) → Yuksimnyeong (Yuk-side), aptly named 'Yukgujongju'
  • Passes through 6 peaks: Hyangjeokbong (1,614m), Jungbong (1,594m), Baegambong (1,503m), Muryongsan (1,491m), Satgatbong (1,418m), and Namdeogyusan (1,507m)
  • Can be split into a 2-day, 1-night course with an overnight stay at Satgatjae Shelter (1,280m)
  • Passes through the core section of the Baekdudaegan — Dongyeopnyeong~Namdeogyusan section
  • Approx. 27km one-way long distance — Advance preparation for transportation from Yuksimnyeong (terminus) is essential
  • For advanced hikers with sufficient physical fitness — recommended after gaining ample intermediate experience
Detailed Route by Section
Departure
Depart Gucheondong Visitor Center (Dawn)
600m above sea level Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

For a same-day completion of the Yukgujongju traverse, a pre-dawn start between 4-5 AM is essential. Be sure to pre-book transportation towards Jangsu/Jeonju from the final destination, Yuksimnyeong, or plan for a car shuttle.

Recommended 2-day, 1-night trip: Day 1 Gucheondong→Satgatjae Shelter, Day 2 Satgatjae→Namdeogyu→Yuksipnyeong. Satgatjae Shelter reservations: 063-322-4536.
Solo hiking is strictly prohibited. Rescue is difficult in case of distress on the 27km ridge section. Team hiking of 3 or more people is recommended.
1
Gucheondong → Baengnyeonsa Temple → Hyangjeokbong Peak
Approx. 9km 3h 30m Intermediate Section
Difficulty

Along the valley of Gucheondong 33 Scenic Spots, ascend to the summit of Hyangjeokbong Peak via Baengnyeonsa Temple and Hyangjeokbong Shelter. From Hyangjeokbong Peak, begin the main ridge traverse of the Baekdudaegan mountain range towards Jungbong Peak.

Have a sufficient meal and replenish energy at Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit. Afterwards, a long ridge hike of approximately 13km continues to Satgatjae Pass.
2
Hyangjeokbong Peak → Jungbong Peak → Baegambong Peak → Dongyeomnyeong Pass
Approx. 6km 2h 30m Baekdudaegan Ridge
Difficulty

From Hyangjeokbong Peak, follow the ridge through Jungbong Peak (1,594m) and Baegambong Peak (1,503m) to Dongyeomnyeong Pass. Enjoy expansive views of Jirisan National Park, Gayasan National Park, and Jeoksangsan Mountain from the open ridge. Dongyeomnyeong Pass is a major saddle connecting Anseong and Gucheondong.

There is an escape route descending towards Anseong from Dongyeopnyeong Pass. Consider escaping if you experience physical difficulties. Descend to Chilyeongyegok Valley for approximately 4km to the Anseong Visitor Center.
3
Dongyeopnyeong Pass → Muryongsan Mountain → Satgatjae Shelter
Approx. 6km 2h 30m Plateau Ridge
Difficulty

From Dongyeopnyeong Pass, cross Muryongsan Mountain (1,491m) and follow the plateau ridge to Satgatjae Shelter (1,280m). The ridge around Muryongsan Mountain is exceptionally wide and open, allowing you to experience the true essence of the Deogyu ridge.

If staying overnight at Satgatjae Shelter, this is the end of Day 1. Shelter reservation is required. On Day 2, descend from Namdeogyu to Yuksipnyeong Pass.
4
Satgatjae → Satgatbong Peak → Namdeogyusan → Seobong Peak → Yuksipnyeong Pass
Approx. 8km 3h 30m Final Section
Difficulty

Cross Satgatbong Peak (1,418m) to reach the summit of Namdeogyusan (1,507m). Namdeogyusan is the second highest peak of Deogyusan National Park, offering a distinct landscape from Hyangjeokbong Peak. Descend steeply past Seobong Peak (1,492m) to Yuksipnyeong Pass (700m) to complete the traverse.

There are buses from Yuksimnyeong towards Jangsu, Jeonju, and Daejeon, but the intervals are long. Strongly recommend pre-booking a taxi. Yuksimnyeong is right next to the border of Jangsu-gun and Hamyang-gun.
Tips & Cautions

Essential Gear

  • Hiking Boots (Waterproof, Ankle Support)
  • 2 trekking poles
  • Knee pads (both)
  • Headlamp + spare batteries
  • Winter: Crampons + gaiters

Food & Water

  • Water 2.5L or more
  • Hyangjeokbong Shelter Ramen·Drinks
  • Meals available at Satgatjae Shelter
  • Prepare lunchbox for 2 meals

Satgatjae Shelter

  • Phone: 063-322-4536
  • Reservation: National Park Reservation System
  • Limited capacity, advance reservation required
  • 1 night, 1 person: 13,000 won (adult)

Transportation Plan

  • Depart Gucheondong → Arrive Yuksipnyeong
  • Yuksimnyeong→Jangsu·Jeonju Bus (Infrequent)
  • Yuksimnyeong taxi pre-booking essential
  • Car teams are recommended to park at Yuksipnyeong Pass

Physical Preparation

  • Completed intermediate courses 10+ times
  • Long-distance training over 25km
  • Knee and ankle strengthening exercises
  • Sufficient sleep and hydration the day before

Attraction Information

—
Gucheondong 33 Scenic Spots Valley Landscape
Deogyusan's representative valley with beautiful waterfalls and pools
—
View of Jungbong Peak and Baegambong Peak Ridge
Expansive panoramic mountain views from the gentle ridge walk
1492m
Muryongsan wide plateau ridge
Foliage and open vistas from the plateau ridge over 1,400m high
1507m
Namdeogyusan Mountain ~ Seobong Peak Scenic View
Majestic views showcasing the rugged peaks of Southern Deogyusan

Yukgujongju Course Map (Guchangdong → Yuksimnyeong)

Hyangjeokbong Peak1,614m ★Dongyeopnyeong Pass 1,320mMuryongsan Mountain 1,491mSatgatjae Shelter 1,280mSatgatbong Peak 1,418mNamdeogyusan Mountain1,507mSeobong Peak 1,492mYuksimnyeong 700mGucheondong Visitor Center PBaengnyeonsa Temple 970mJungbong Peak 1,594mN← Gucheondong·Hyangjeokbong sectionNamdeogyu-Yuksipnyeong Section →Yukgujongju Traverse Full CourseShelter (Accommodation)
All Checkpoints (Traverse)
1
Gucheondong Visitor Support Center Departure
Elevation 600m Cumulative 0km
Amenities: Parking/Restrooms
2
Baengnyeonsa Temple Temple
Elevation 970m Cumulative 5.0km
Amenities: Restroom, mineral spring
3
Hyangjeokbong Peak Summit Summit
Elevation 1,614m Cumulative 9.0km
Amenities: Shelter·Ramen
4
Jungbong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,594m Cumulative 10.5km
Amenities: —
5
Baegambong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,503m Cumulative 12.0km
Amenities: —
6
Dongyeopnyeong Pass Anbu (Saddle) / Fork
Elevation 1,320m Cumulative 15.0km
Amenities: Escape route available
7
Muryongsan Mountain Peak
Elevation 1,491m Cumulative 17.0km
Amenities: —
8
Satgatjae Shelter Shelter
Elevation 1,280m Cumulative 19.0km
Amenities: Accommodation, Meals, Restrooms
9
Satgatbong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,418m Cumulative 21.0km
Amenities: —
10
Namdeogyusan Mountain Summit
Elevation 1,507m Cumulative 23.0km
Amenities: Summit Marker/Viewpoint
11
Seobong Peak Peak
Elevation 1,492m Cumulative 24.5km
Amenities: —
12
Yuksimnyeong Terminus
Elevation 700m Cumulative ~27km
Amenities: Parking/Restrooms/Bus Stop

The Four Seasons & Attractions of Deogyusan National Park