Mt. Hallasan 🏔 — Notes to Future Me
Funny how my brain edits all the pain into fun the moment I get back from a hike… then I start planning the next climb — only to regret it halfway up again 😅
Sharing this so I’ll remember next time:
• You need to book (it’s free, but slots go fast)
• Arrive before 5am — carparks are limited
• It’s pitch dark for the first hour → bring a headlamp
Was expecting a chill hike… but everyone was rushing to overtake. The trail was 80% rocks, so my eyes were glued to the ground. Neck and shoulders aching halfway through, silently cursing every new rocky stretch. But kept going.
The summit? 🥶 Freezing winds, barely saw the crater, hands hurt so bad I turned back 10 mins later. Bring gloves next time!
⏱ 4h up | 45min break | 4h down
🧳 Next time pack: 2 gimbap, 1L water, sanitizer (toilets = 💀), walking sticks, neck buff, base layer, fleece, windbreaker, sunblock, hand warmers, headlamp.
⸻
What I learned:
It’s easy to focus on the summit —
but the truth is, the trail itself is when the real lessons live.
Every uphill builds resilience.
Every pause to breathe teaches patience.
Every step brings clarity and focus.
Yes, the view on the top is beautiful (and misty).
But it’s the journey that shapes us, strengthens us, and stays with us long after the hike ends.
If you're planning to hike Mt. Hallasan, let me share some additional practical advice from my experience that could make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Firstly, securing a reservation in advance is crucial since the number of daily hikers is limited to preserve the natural environment. Book your slot as early as possible on the official Hallasan reservation website, even though it’s free. This avoids the disappointment of not gaining entry on your planned day. Starting your hike before dawn is highly recommended. The carparks fill up quickly, and beginning early means you can experience the tranquility of the trail before it gets crowded. Bring a reliable headlamp because the first hour is pitch dark, which was a bit unnerving during my hike. The hiking trails such as Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa are primarily rocky and uneven, so packing lightweight but sturdy walking sticks can significantly reduce strain on your knees and help maintain balance. Also, layering your clothing is important—temperatures drop sharply as you gain elevation, and the summit's cold winds can be brutal. Don’t underestimate the power of adequate hand protection; gloves are a must. I suffered from painful cold hands that forced me to cut my summit visit short. Bringing hand warmers can make the difference between a comfortable rest and an unbearably cold pause. Hydration and nutrition are key. Carry at least a liter of water and pack easy-to-eat snacks like gimbap or energy bars. Also, bring sanitizer and be prepared for the limited and often less-than-ideal toilet facilities along the trail. Finally, pace yourself and focus on the journey rather than rushing to the summit. Each step along the trail is part of the experience, offering time for reflection, building resilience, and connecting with nature’s beauty. The summit may be misty and views limited, but the lessons and memories formed on the trail stay with you long after. Feel free to explore multiple trails like Yeongsil Trail if time allows; they offer different perspectives of Hallasan's unique landscape. Enjoy your hike and embrace every uphill step as a step towards personal growth and adventure.
Hi! Can I know which trail u took and is this recent? I'll be hiking hallasan next week!