Seoraksan National Park

Seorakan National Park is located in the most northeastern corner of South Korea just inland from the coast and Sea of Japan.  The national park encompasses an area of 153.7 square miles (398.22 sq km).

It has the distinction of being declared as the first national park for South Korea in 1970.  It is a popular park for both locals and visitors to the country; it is a great place to escape and enjoy the rugged wilderness.

The tallest peak in the park is Daecheongbong with a summit of 5,604 feet (1,708 m).  It is a mountainous region comprised of granite and gneiss with several peaks reaching over 3,937 feet (1,200 m).

Dinosaur Ridge is one of the most distinct and picturesque mountains within Seorakan boundaries.  It features a jagged ridgeline that looks like the back of a stegosaurus type dinosaur.  The slopes are decorated with various pine and juniper forests.  Other forested areas in the park include deciduous trees such as oaks.

Although there are 1,562 species of wildlife within the park, the majority of these are not mammals.  Some of the popular species include flying squirrel, Korean goral, Korean musk deer, and otters.  There are several species of birds for birdwatchers who want to explore the park

Seorakan also provides visitors with a taste of culture and history, there are two Buddhist temples located within the park. 

Photos

Seoraksan National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The rugged granite landscape is a draw to the park with Dinosaur Ridge being one of the landscape highlights.

Seoraksan National Park Trails

There are several trails that meander around the park providing visitors with access to the granite mountainous landscapes, waterfalls, and historical Buddhist temples.  Trails range from easy to rather difficult with steep elevation changes.