Valley walking course — Jajaeam Temple, Habagundae, Seonnyeotang
This is a round-trip course that goes from Iljumun Gate, through Jajaeam Temple, up to Habagundae and Jungbaegundae, and then returns to Seonnyeotang Valley. There are many sections that follow the valley, making it cool even in summer, and the autumn foliage is particularly beautiful. It is a representative introductory course for Soyosan Mountain that can be enjoyed by hiking beginners, children, and seniors alike.
Soyosan Station Exit 1 → Go straight north along Pyeonghwa-ro → Soyosan Tourist Information Center → Pass through Iljumun Gate. The asphalt and paved road is also accessible for strollers. Restaurants and souvenir shops line both sides.
After passing through Iljumun Gate, a flat mountain path follows the valley. Wonhyo Falls and Hyeonchung Falls can be viewed. Jajaeam Temple is an ancient temple founded by Silla monk Wonhyo. It's a good place to rest after visiting Sansingak and Samseonggak within the temple grounds.
The main trail begins from the 108 stairs behind Jajaeam Temple. Stone stairs and rocky sections continue. At Habagundae (approx. 350m), views of the valley and the entrance to Soyosan Mountain open up.
From Habaegundae, gently follow the ridge to Jungbaegundae (approx. 430m). The highest point of the beginner course. Offers a refreshing panoramic view towards the Soyosan Mountain valley. A photo opportunity spot.
The Seonnyeotang Descent Trail is a steep slope next to the valley — it can be slippery due to fallen leaves. After a brief appreciation of Seonnyeotang (natural pond), return to Jajaeam Temple and descend back to the starting point.
Public Transportation Guide
- Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 1Soyosan StationExit 1
- Approximately 70 minutes from Seoul Station
- 15-minute walk to Iljumun Gate after arrival
Beginner Essential Gear
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes (slippers/sandals prohibited)
- More than 500ml of water (Jajaeam spring water available)
- Snacks/energy bars
- Hiking poles (optional, helpful for descent)
Season & Weather
- Peak autumn foliage: Late October ~ Early November
- Spring (April-May): Azaleas, wild cherry blossoms
- Summer (June-August): Valleys are cool, but beware of heavy rainfall
- Winter: Beautiful snow scenery, crampons essential
Safety Precautions
- Wear gloves for the rope section after the 108 Stairs
- Slippery section of Seonnyeotang Descent Trail
- Crowded on autumn foliage weekends — weekdays/early mornings recommended
- No hiking after sunset
Parking & Admission
- Soyosan Mountain Parking Lot: 2,000 won per day
- Admission: Free from May 2023
- Parking lots full on weekends during autumn foliage season → Subway recommended
Restaurants & Amenities
- Restaurants in front of Iljumun Gate — Soft Tofu Stew·Green Onion Pancake·Makgeolli
- Restrooms: Ticket Office, Jaeam Hermitage
- Mineral spring: Jaesaam Temple grounds
Baegundae Ridge Course — 3 Baegundae + Kalbawi
Iljumun Gate → Jajaeam Temple → Ha·Jung·Sangbaegundae Peaks → Kalbawi Rock → Descend to Seonnyeotang Pond (round trip course, approx. 6.5km, 2-3 hours). This course allows you to experience the rocky ridge of Kalbawi Rock, the highlight of Soyosan Mountain. You can summit all of Habagundae, Jungbaegundae, and Sangbaegundae, and enjoy the thrilling views from Kalbawi Rock. However, the Kalbawi Rock section is a dizzying rocky ridge, so hiking boots and gloves are essential.
Same as the beginner course. Soyosan Station Exit 1 → Go straight on Pyeonghwa-ro → Ticket office → Iljumun → Wonhyo Falls → Jaeam Temple. Use the restroom and spring water at Jaeam Temple, then prepare to depart.
After the 108 Stairs, a steep incline of rock and stone steps continues. Ascend the three Baegundae peaks (Lower, Middle, Upper) in order, enjoying the viewpoints at each spot. From Sangbaegundae (500m), the western ridge of Soyosan Mountain is visible at a glance.
The best highlight section of Soyosan Mountain. Pass through the sharp rock ridge of Kalbawi using ropes and footholds. Although there are dizzying cliffs on both sides, the ropes are well installed, so it is safe to proceed calmly. 360-degree views of Dongducheon city and Pocheon.
Descend from Kalbawi towards Seonnyeotang. The slope is steep and can be slippery with fallen leaves or moisture. After enjoying Seonnyeotang, return to Jajaeam → Iljumun → Parking lot/Soyosan Station.
Intermediate Essential Gear
- Hiking boots (ankle support essential)
- Gloves (Kalbawi Rock rope section)
- Knee pads (useful for descents)
- Over 1L of water (no resupply points)
- Trekking poles (for safe descent)
Kalbawi Safety Rules
- Gloves required
- Keep your center of gravity low
- If your backpack is too large, it may be difficult to pass.
- Maintain sufficient distance from the person in front
- Use detour during rain, fog, or icy conditions
Recommended Season
- Peak autumn foliage: Late October - Early November
- Spring (April-May): Azalea colonies
- Winter rocky ridge snow scenery is spectacular — crampons essential
- Refrain from hiking during summer monsoon season or after heavy rainfall
Transportation Guide
- Soyosan Station (Line 1), Exit 1 → 15-minute walk
- Extreme congestion on weekends during autumn foliage season
- Recommended to enter the mountain before 7 AM
Uisangdae Complete Course — All Peaks Loop (8.1km)
A full circuit course (approx. 8.1km, 4-5 hours) that covers all the major peaks of Soyosan Mountain at once. It is a horseshoe-shaped circular course from Iljumun Gate → Jajaeam Temple → Ha-Jung-Sangbaegundae → Kalbawi → Nahandae → Uisangdae (summit 587m) → Gongjubong Peak → Gujeolteo → Iljumun Gate. This is a premium course certified by Mountain Tour and Blackyak 100 Great Mountains, offering all the views and rock ridges of Soyosan Mountain.
Iljumun Gate → Wonhyo Falls → Jajaeam Temple (Restroom·Spring Water) → 108 Stairs → Habagundae (350m) → Jungbaegundae (430m) → Sangbaegundae (500m). The hike officially begins. Take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the view at each Baegundae peak.
The most difficult section of Soyosan Mountain. After passing through Kalbawi Ridge (using ropes), follow the ridge to Nahandae. The views of the cliffs on both sides are overwhelming. The view from Nahandae towards Uisangdae is wide open.
Uisangdae (587m), the highest peak of Soyosan Mountain. Named in honor of Uisangdaesa, who trained with Wonhyodaesa. Panoramic views towards Dongducheon, Pocheon, and Yeoncheon from the summit. A Blackyak 100 Great Mountains certification point.
From Uisangdae Peak, follow the eastern ridge towards Gongjubong Peak (526m). Gongjubong Peak is the setting for the legend of Princess Yoseok and Great Monk Wonhyo. Afterwards, descend to Gujeolteo, where a dirt path continues alongside the valley.
From Gujeolteo, descend along a gentle dirt path next to the valley towards Songnigyo Bridge → Iljumun Gate. This flat and wide final section allows tired knees to rest. Finish with makgeolli and pajeon at the restaurants in front of Iljumun Gate.
Advanced Essential Gear
- Hiking boots (ankle-supporting type essential)
- Gloves (Kalbawi Rock essential)
- Knee pads (for long descents)
- 1.5~2L of water (no resupply points)
- Plenty of snacks/energy bars
- Trekking poles (for safe descent)
- 100 Famous Mountains Stamp Book
Itinerary Planning
- Recommended to start between 7-8 AM (takes 4-5 hours)
- Enter the mountain before 6 AM on autumn foliage weekends
- Must complete descent before sunset
- Bring a packed lunch (eat near the summit)
Safety Rules
- Kalbawi: Alternative route if you have acrophobia
- Entry to Kalbawi is prohibited during freezing conditions or heavy rain
- Share your location when hiking alone
- If your physical strength is below 70%, use the Saemteo Descent Trail from Uisangdae.
- Emergency: Dongducheon Fire Station 119
Useful Apps & Information
- Korea Forest Service Safe Hiking App
- Blackyak 100 Great Mountains App (Stamp)
- Korea Meteorological Administration Local Forecast (Mountain Weather)
- Soyosan Mountain Management Office: 031-865-5043
Season & Best Time
- Peak autumn foliage: October 20th - November 5th
- Royal Azalea: Late April - Early May
- Snowy scenery: December-February (crampons essential)
- Not recommended: Rainy season (immediately after heavy rain in July-August)
Transportation & Parking
- Subway Line 1, Soyosan Station, Exit 1
- Parking: 2,000 won per day (crowded during autumn foliage season)
- Free admission (from May 2023)
- Subway use highly recommended (autumn foliage season weekends)