#02
Just two of the eight peaks.
Palbongsan Mountain is a stunning natural gem located in Seomyeon, Hongcheon-gun, within the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, it is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and thrilling trails. It promises an unforgettable adventure for seasoned hikers and nature lovers alike.
Palbongsan, named for its eight distinctive peaks resembling eight brothers standing shoulder to shoulder, offers a formidable challenge. Despite its relatively low altitude, the Amreung section of the trail is notorious for testing even the most experienced hikers. Peaks 1 and 8 are particularly difficult, with a high risk of accidents, making them unsuitable for novice hikers or the elderly. Most hikers aim for Peak 2, where Black Yak mountain climbing certification is available, without needing to conquer the most treacherous sections.
Our hike began at the Palbongsan Ticket Office trailhead, marked by an exotic wooden carving statue. Excitement filled the air as we embarked on what we thought would be a manageable trek. The initial trail was gentle, leading us through a serene forest of pine and oak trees. However, the hike quickly turned into an intense cardio workout with steep inclines and rocky climbs.
The hike to the first peak is steep and rocky, offering immediate challenges and stunning views. The second peak, the highest at 362 meters, provides panoramic vistas of Hongcheon-gun’s rolling hills and valleys, especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon.
Given the challenge, we aimed to reach the highest peak and descend quickly. We managed to climb two peaks but decided to head back for safety. Descending from the second peak was steep and rugged, a natural trail rarely used by others, making it a slippery challenge.
The mountain is accessible from 07:00 to 15:00, with all hikers required to leave by 18:00. Unauthorized access during winter and at night is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns, and the entrance is locked outside of these hours. In case of rain or snow, entry is immediately forbidden. Always check the latest notices on the homepage or call the Palbongsan Tourist Information Office at (033-430-4281~4287) before planning your visit.
Hikers should come well-prepared with climbing gloves and sturdy hiking boots, as the trail includes sections requiring the use of hands and ropes. Walking canes or poles are less useful here. The hike begins from Palbongsan Tourist Park (272-4 Eoyupori, Seo-myeon, Hongcheon-gun), where you can park your car and walk a short distance to Palbonggyo Bridge. Crossing this bridge leads to the ticket office and the start of the hiking course. Safety measures like ropes, footrests, and handles are installed, but vigilance is essential due to frequent falls.
Lesson Learned: Bring Food! We underestimated the hike by not bringing snacks, leaving us hungry and low on energy.
- Parking: Free parking is available near the trailhead.
- Bathroom: Clean bathrooms are located at the trailhead.
- Crowd: Weekends can be crowded, so start early.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several local eateries offering traditional Korean food are a short drive away.
Completing all eight peaks takes about 3-4 hours, including time spent at the eight summits enjoying the views.
Despite the tough climb, Palbongsan’s beauty captivated us. We look forward to returning, better prepared, and conquering all eight peaks.
Palbongsan Mountain is more than just a hike; it’s an adventure filled with natural beauty and physical challenges. The trail was not very friendly, especially since we hiked in late November when fallen leaves covered the paths, making them slippery. Descending was particularly difficult due to the steep, leaf-covered trails. The weather was clear and perfect, though, with a bright blue sky and a crisp chill in the air.
The views from the summit were spectacular, and we thoroughly enjoyed the hike. The entry fee is a modest 1,500 won for adults, a small price to pay for an experience rich in excitement and scenic wonder. So, gear up, stay safe, and get ready to conquer the peaks of Palbongsan!
Beyond hiking, Palbongsan offers a range of recreational activities, including campgrounds, futsal courts, and foot volleyball courts, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. However, note that the mountain is closed from December to February each year for safety reasons.
“Relive View!”
“Google Map!”
“Weather Wisdom!”
☞ When it comes to hiking, checking the weather isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a crucial safety measure. Always take the weather forecast seriously before hitting the trail.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our challenge, one peak at a time!
☞ If you have any concerns or questions about hiking Palbongsan, please feel free to leave a comment in the comment section below. We’ll do our best to share more details and provide helpful information to ensure you have a great hiking experience. Whether you need advice on gear, trail conditions, or planning your visit, we’re here to help.