Winter in Jeju transforms the island into a breathtaking wonderland. Snow blankets the volcanic slopes, turning familiar trails into dreamlike paths. During our recent hike to Sara Oreum (사라오름), we were reminded just how magical this season can be.
Tucked inside Hallasan National Park, Sara Oreum is known for its mountaintop crater lake and peaceful atmosphere. Though winter conditions made the trail challenging, the experience was unforgettable. For anyone chasing a different side of Jeju—quiet, snow-covered, and serene—this hidden gem is a must-visit.
Sara Oreum is one of Jeju’s many Oreums (parasitic volcanic cones) and stands out due to its picturesque lake, which transforms into a wetland at the summit. Located near the well-known Seongpanak Trail, a popular route to Hallasan’s peak, it boasts the highest elevation among Jeju’s parasitic cones. The crater lake measures about 250 meters in circumference, with its rim extending up to 1.2 km. Historically, the site has been regarded as an auspicious location in Korean geomancy, adding a layer of cultural significance to its natural beauty.
The 12.6 km out-and-back trail takes an average of 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete. It is considered moderately challenging and is best explored between March and October. Due to capacity limits and seasonal closures, hikers must secure registration in advance.
Embarking on a winter hike to Sara Oreum requires careful planning, patience, and flexibility. The unpredictable weather and heavy snow often lead to trail closures. After facing five cancellations and weeks of rescheduling, we finally got the chance to go—and it was worth every bit of the wait!
Our journey began before dawn at 4:30 AM when we departed from home and drove to the Seongpanak trailhead, a 40-minute drive. We started our hike just before 6 AM. The beginning of the trail was well maintained, with a clear path, so hiking wasn’t too difficult as long as we stayed on track. Stepping off the designated path, however, meant sinking waist-deep into the snow. While there was snowfall, it was relatively light—the real challenge was the strong, biting wind. The cold gusts made every step feel heavier, but an early start allowed us to avoid the crowds and make the most of the daylight. Proper gear, including crampons, was essential, and we strongly recommend checking trail conditions before setting out. Despite the harsh elements, the breathtaking winter scenery kept us motivated.
Along the way, we noticed the distance markers placed at intervals along the trail. These markers helped us track our progress, indicating how far we had come and how much farther we needed to go.
Reaching the summit of Sara Oreum was an unforgettable moment. The crater lake, usually a striking feature, was completely covered in snow, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Everything was painted in shades of white and gray, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing atmosphere.
We missed the sunrise that morning—partly because we kept stopping to take photos and videos along the way. By the time we reached Sara Oreum’s observatory deck, the sun had already risen. To add to that, the peak was shrouded in dark clouds and hit by strong winds, making visibility quite limited.
Still, the atmosphere had its own kind of beauty. The dramatic winter weather, though harsh, added a raw, unforgettable touch to the entire experience.
Recap Images
As we descended, more hikers began arriving, reaffirming the advantage of our early start. We paused at a small shelter midway down to rest, enjoy some snacks, and adjust our gear before continuing. By 11 AM, we had completed the trek, taking over 5 hours due to frequent stops for photography.
Sara Oreum in winter is an experience like no other. It offers a peaceful and striking perspective of Jeju’s volcanic landscape, transformed by snow and silence. Although the weather didn’t cooperate during our visit, the hike was still unforgettable. For those who love hiking—or simply want to witness Jeju in its most magical season—Sara Oreum is truly worth the climb.
If you’re planning a winter hike to Sara Oreum, come prepared. Trail closures, icy paths, and strong winds are common challenges during this season. But for those willing to brave the elements, the reward is a one-of-a-kind winter adventure you won’t soon forget.
Have you ever hiked in Jeju during winter? Share your experiences in the comments below!