Songnisan National Park (속리산국립공원) features an enchanting mountain that had us under its spell from our first steps in the park. The park’s remote location made us feel like we’d gone back in time. Sometimes, it’s nice to get a little lost in a picture-perfect forest.
On our first visit, we learned why this mountain is a famous winter hiking destination. Traveling between Cheonwangbong and Munjangdae on a high mountain spine, we knew we’d found another favorite park. We loved Songnisan’s frosty forest and natural rock sculptures!
During our second, summertime visit, we explored a different part of the park. Daeyasan’s summit offers amazing views of the Baekdudaegan mountain range. It was a completely new experience for us, yet the dense forest and rocky peak resembled what we’d seen on our first visit to the main part of the park.
Songnisan’s splendid, sprawling forests are a refuge for many animals and a paradise for nature-lovers. The mountain’s long spine offers relatively easy hiking combined with spectacular views – a rare treat! With many separate areas and a multitude of trails to dozens of peaks, there’s so much to explore in Songnisan National Park!
Splendid Songnisan adventures
Tips and tricks for enjoying Songnisan National Park
When to go
Songnisan National Park is beautiful all year long. It is known to be a great place to experience the frost flowers of winter, but its dense forests make it a great place for immersing yourself in the green of Korea’s semi-tropical summers too.
Although Songnisan also offers beautiful spring blooms and sweeping color changes during fall, the park closes during these two seasons. A fall fire prevention period usually takes place in November. This is followed by a spring closure, typically lasting March to May. But these closures typically only affect peaks and ridges: some trails might still be accessible. Check the official Korea National Park Service website for more information, and have a look at Naver Maps before you go: trails marked in red indicate closures.
Since Songnisan has such a lengthy ridge, you’ll get the most out of your visit if you plan a long day or two on the trails. There are so many options and so much beautiful scenery – just in the southern section of the park! As always, an early start will help you go further and enjoy the natural setting the most.
Where to stay
Although I lack personal experience with staying in the area, I do know that it is possible to do so. In fact, staying near the park’s main entrance would give you first access to the trails in the early morning, and would be a great idea if you’re looking to maximize your time on the mountain.
There’s a whole tourist village located at the main entrance of the park, just below Beopjusa temple. Here you can find cheap motels, more upscale hotels and simple rooms for rent: take your pick! There are also mini markets and lots of restaurants to choose from.
It is possible to explore Songnisan on a day trip from Cheongju (where you have greater access to meals, motels and onward transit) – but I’d only recommend this if you’re willing to go quite quickly through the park. Taking the first and last buses of the day sets you up for a pretty full day in the park if you’re a strong hiker.
Hiking & running
Options abound in Songnisan National Park! However, they’re not all equally accessible. The majority of the hiking centers on the southern section of the park. It’s here that you can find Songnisan’s highest peak, Cheonwangbong, and the iconic Munjangdae rock formation. This is also where you’ll find the highest concentration of tour groups, but remember, famous sights are famous for a reason – you’re going to want to see them too!
For the best single-day Songnisan experience, go for a hike (or a run!) on the high, scenic ridge that links Cheonwangbong to Munjangdae. This is a nice long trail that’s relatively simple and highly enjoyable.
If you’ve got a little extra time or a desire to get off the beaten path, head to Daeyasan. Daeyasan is a high, rocky peak with amazing views. It’s also got a more challenging climb.
Dozens of other peaks populate this park, and see less foot traffic. If you’ve got your own wheels and like bagging peaks, this is a great park for exploration! Have a look at the Korea National Park Service map of Songnisan, and see how many of its summits you can tag!
Happy hiking!