Discover Jeju on Foot
While Jeju is famous for its beaches and waterfalls,
it’s also a hiker’s paradise with lush forests, volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and dramatic coastal trails.
Exploring Jeju on foot allows you to experience the island’s true spirit —
its serenity, its power, and its breathtaking beauty.
Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails in Jeju for your 2025 nature adventures!
✨ Top Hiking Trails in Jeju (with Features, Pros, Cons)
1. Hallasan Mountain Trail (한라산 등산로)
- 📍 Location: Center of Jeju Island
- 🥾 Key Features:
Highest peak in South Korea, volcanic crater, alpine ecosystems - 👍 Pros:
- Stunning panoramic views at the summit
- Diverse flora and fauna
- Well-maintained trails (Seongpanak, Gwaneumsa routes)
- 👎 Cons:
- Demanding hike (6–9 hours round trip)
- Weather changes quickly; preparation needed
- ✨ Recommended For:
Experienced hikers, nature enthusiasts
2. Olle Trails (올레길)
- 📍 Location: Throughout Jeju Island
- 🥾 Key Features:
26 interconnected coastal and inland walking trails - 👍 Pros:
- Easy to moderate difficulty
- Scenic coastal, rural, and forest landscapes
- Self-paced, customizable routes
- 👎 Cons:
- Some sections less maintained
- Time-consuming for full experiences
- ✨ Recommended For:
Casual hikers, slow travelers
3. Eoseungsaengak Trail (어승생악)
- 📍 Location: Near Hallasan
- 🥾 Key Features:
Short volcanic cone hike with 360° island views - 👍 Pros:
- Easy 30–40 min round trip
- Great sunrise/sunset views
- Accessible for families and beginners
- 👎 Cons:
- Can be windy and cold at the top
- ✨ Recommended For:
Beginners, families, sunrise/sunset chasers
4. Seongsan Ilchulbong Trail (성산 일출봉 등산로)
- 📍 Location: Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo
- 🥾 Key Features:
Hike to the crater of a UNESCO World Heritage Site - 👍 Pros:
- Short but rewarding climb (20–30 minutes)
- Incredible sunrise experience
- Clear, paved paths
- 👎 Cons:
- Crowded during sunrise hours
- ✨ Recommended For:
First-time visitors, photo enthusiasts
5. Darangshi Oreum Trail (다랑쉬 오름 등산로)
- 📍 Location: Gujwa-eup, Jeju City
- 🥾 Key Features:
Volcanic cone with lush grassy fields and panoramic views - 👍 Pros:
- Quiet, less touristy
- Stunning views over farmland and ocean
- Ideal for peaceful hikes
- 👎 Cons:
- Steep final ascent
- Limited public transport
- ✨ Recommended For:
Solitude seekers, landscape photographers
🌟 Why Hiking in Jeju is Unforgettable
- Volcanic Wonders: Hike ancient craters, lava fields, and cones.
- Biodiversity: Rare plants, animals, and dynamic ecosystems.
- Coastal Beauty: Trails often mix sea views with mountain paths.
- Cultural Encounters: Pass by stone walls, old villages, and haenyeo fishing communities.
📝 Tips for Hiking in Jeju
- Check Weather Forecasts: Conditions can change rapidly, especially on Hallasan.
- Wear Layers: Temperature drops in high-altitude areas.
- Bring Enough Water and Snacks: Facilities are limited on most trails.
- Start Early: To avoid crowds and afternoon weather changes.
✅ Conclusion: Step Into the Heart of Jeju
Whether you're scaling the heights of Hallasan or strolling along peaceful Olle paths,
hiking is one of the most intimate ways to experience Jeju’s soul.
Lace up your boots, grab your camera,
and get ready to create unforgettable memories on Jeju's trails in 2025!
🥾 Adventure awaits — explore Jeju one step at a time.