DEOGYUSAN MOUNTAIN: BAC 100 PEAKS CHALLENGE

#6

Hiking Journal: The Beauty of Deogyusan National Park.

When we think of Deogyusan National Park, the stunning winter scenery immediately comes to mind. Its beauty is so captivating that you’ll want to visit it again and again. However, the hike from the foot of the mountain to the summit can be quite challenging without the aid of the gondola lift.

The hike is long and demanding. To fully experience the mountain’s beauty, you need to dedicate an entire day to the journey. Winter in Deogyusan is beyond imaginable. When the snow reflects off the blue skies and crystalline snow, it creates some of the most picturesque scenes, including hidden temples.

This is our second ascent to this peak. Our first climb was in 2020 and took a full day of hiking. For our second ascent, part of our BAC challenge, we decided to take the gondola lift and visit other main attractions, such as the gigantic octagonal pavilion established as a rest stop.

Deogyusan is always crowded during winter. Besides seasoned hikers, many people who aren’t regular hikers can ride the gondola lift to the summit. The gondola lift is located at Muju Deogyusan Resort, the only ski resort situated in a national park.

Thanks to the gondola lift, it was a short and easy ascent that day. We could descend quickly and attempt to climb another summit the same day. Overall, climbing Deogyusan remains one of my favorite summits in South Korea.

Nestled in the heart of South Korea, Deogyusan National Park spans the picturesque provinces of Jeollabuk-do and Gyeongsangnam-do. Designated as the 10th national park in 1975, this natural haven is a sanctuary of diverse flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Deogyusan Mountain, with its rich history as a sacred site, has long been revered by monks and scholars. Standing tall at 1,614 meters (5,295 feet), Hyangjeokbong Peak, the summit of Deogyusan, is the fourth highest peak in South Korea. The mountain’s historical significance and breathtaking beauty have made it a cherished destination for hikers from all over the country.

Deogyusan offers a variety of trails catering to different levels of hikers. The most popular route to the summit, Hyangjeokbong Peak, begins at Deogyusan Resort. This well-maintained trail is challenging with steep sections and spans approximately 5.4 kilometers (3.4 miles) one way, typically taking around 3-4 hours to ascend. For a more leisurely hike, the Seolcheonbong Peak trail is a gentler option with moderate difficulty and scenic views.

As you ascend Deogyusan, you’ll be immersed in a vibrant tapestry of 1,067 plant species, including colorful wildflowers in spring and lush foliage in summer. Bird watchers can spot up to 130 bird species, while the park’s 32 mammal species, including the endangered flying squirrel, marten, and otter, add to the allure. The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the panoramic views become, especially from the summit, where you can see a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

From the summit of Hyangjeokbong Peak, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range, which stretches across the Korean Peninsula. The summit provides a sweeping panorama of rolling mountains and valleys, creating a picturesque scene that is particularly stunning in winter when the snow reflects off the blue skies and crystalline snow.

Parking at Deogyusan Resort costs around 5,000 KRW per day. The facilities are ample, but they do fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Clean, well-maintained bathrooms are available at the base and several points along the trails. For a more serene experience, visit on weekdays when the park is less crowded.

When preparing for your hike, be sure to bring sturdy, comfortable hiking boots, gloves for colder months and rocky sections, and hiking sticks to assist with the steeper parts of the trails.

Be aware that the park can close during dry seasons due to the risk of forest fires. Always check for closure notices before your trip. Additionally, during the winter months, trails can become icy, so crampons and warm clothing are recommended.

After a rewarding hike, indulge in a hearty meal at one of the nearby restaurants. Local favorites include 산채비빔밥 (sanchae bibimbap), a delicious mountain vegetable rice dish, and hearty 국밥 (gukbap), a traditional Korean soup with rice. The Muju Deogyusan Resort area has several dining options where you can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine and recharge after your hike.

Deogyusan National Park is a natural treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, the park offers something for everyone. From its diverse wildlife to its scenic trails and historical significance, Deogyusan is an adventure you won’t want to miss. So pack your gear, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable journey through one of South Korea’s most beautiful national parks. Happy hiking!