
Odaesan National Park Pyeongchang
A lush national park with a 5,128-foot mountain, offering scenic hiking trails, serene temples, and vibrant autumn foliage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

Odaesan National Park Pyeongchang
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lush national park with a 5,128-foot mountain, offering scenic hiking trails, serene temples, and vibrant autumn foliage.
"Impressed with the trail, bridges, scenery, and general organization of the park."

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for snowy March conditions and exploring off-main trails. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
6,000 Won covers park access and parking. :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sangwongsa Temple Trail
Gorge trail
A picturesque 9km hike featuring charming bridges and lush scenery, leading to a serene temple.

Woljeongsa Temple
Main temple complex
One of Korea's most significant Buddhist temples, offering a glimpse into spiritual heritage.

Autumn Foliage
Throughout the park
Experience breathtaking fall colors painting the mountainsides in vibrant hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entrance & Fees
Best Hiking Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for snowy March conditions and exploring off-main trails. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
6,000 Won covers park access and parking. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Easy to Moderate Hikes
Trails are generally accessible, but not all are stroller or wheelchair friendly. :walking:
🍁 Fall Foliage Peak
Visit in early autumn for stunning, vibrant colors across the park. :maple_leaf:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for snowy March conditions and exploring off-main trails. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
6,000 Won covers park access and parking. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Easy to Moderate Hikes
Trails are generally accessible, but not all are stroller or wheelchair friendly. :walking:
🍁 Fall Foliage Peak
Visit in early autumn for stunning, vibrant colors across the park. :maple_leaf:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Odaesan National Park for its well-maintained trails, particularly the scenic gorge hike to Sangwongsa Temple, and the beauty of its temples like Woljeongsa. The park is a great destination for enjoying nature and experiencing early autumn foliage. Some find the views less dramatic than other Korean national parks, but its accessibility and organization are consistently appreciated.
"We did the 9km hike up the gorge to Sangwongsa temple and were really impressed with the trail, bridges, scenery and general organisation of the park. The national parks in Korea are amazing. ❤️🇰🇷"
Vincent Oliver
"The place to enjoy early autumn in Korea, the trail is easy to walk a lot of people come here for hiking. Korean people they really love hiking. On the way of hiking you will see some sign to understand the nature."
BD Life
"Though by no means one of my favorite national parks in Korea, Odaesan is still a really nice place. The hiking is easier than in many of the other national parks in Korea, but unfortunately that results in views that are just okay.
This place might be much more beautiful in fall during peak foliage (or even on a clear day instead of during a snowstorm like when I visited), but if you're looking for amazing views, the nearby National Parks of Taebaeksan, Woraksan, and of course Seoraksan are far better options, in my opinion. Still worth visiting, but if you're pressed for time in Korea, there are other places more deserving of a visit"
Gunnar Caya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Odaesan National Park by taking a bus from Seoul's Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Pyeongchang or Wonju, then transferring to a local bus heading towards the park. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Yes, Odaesan is accessible by public transportation. Buses run regularly from major cities like Pyeongchang and Wonju directly to the park entrance.
Once inside the park, walking and hiking are the primary ways to explore. There are also shuttle buses available during peak seasons to reach different trailheads and attractions.
Yes, there are parking facilities available within the park. The entrance fee of 6,000 Won typically covers parking.
Yes, you can drive to Odaesan National Park. The park is accessible by car, and there are designated parking areas available for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Odaesan National Park is 6,000 Won per person for a day pass. This fee covers access to the park, trails, and temples.
Information on specific child ticket prices is not widely available, but the standard entrance fee is 6,000 Won. It's advisable to check the official park website or inquire at the entrance for any concessions.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Odaesan National Park. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance upon arrival.
Odaesan National Park is typically open year-round. However, specific temple hours or trail access might vary, so it's best to check for any seasonal changes.
Yes, the 6,000 Won entrance fee generally covers access to the main temples within Odaesan National Park, including Woljeongsa and Sangwongsa.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 9km gorge hike to Sangwongsa Temple is highly recommended for its scenic beauty. Other popular trails include those leading to Birobong Peak and the trails around Woljeongsa Temple.
The main walkways are generally stroller-friendly, but venturing off the beaten path might be challenging with strollers or wheelchairs. The park offers beautiful scenery and shorter, easier trails suitable for families.
Odaesan National Park is home to diverse flora and fauna. While sightings are not guaranteed, you might encounter various bird species, small mammals, and a rich variety of plant life.
Yes, the park offers campgrounds and basic lodging facilities for visitors who wish to stay overnight. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, especially if you plan to explore trails. Layers are recommended as weather can change. In March, be prepared for snow or slush with waterproof footwear.
📸 📸 Photography
The gorge trail leading to Sangwongsa Temple offers stunning shots of bridges and streams. Woljeongsa Temple's architecture and the surrounding autumn foliage are also prime photography locations.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and temple photography. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drone photography before your visit.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and temple details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views, and a tripod is useful for low-light conditions or capturing flowing water.
Spring offers blooming flowers and fresh greenery, summer provides lush forests, autumn is famous for its vibrant foliage, and winter can present a serene, snow-covered landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
🧘 Spiritual Seekers and Culture Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Scenery
The park's natural beauty is a significant draw, with dense forests covering the mountainside. It's particularly celebrated for its stunning autumn foliage, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. While the views are generally considered 'okay' by some, especially compared to more rugged parks, the accessibility and pleasant walking experience make it a favorite for many Korean hikers who appreciate the connection with nature.
For those seeking a more challenging trek, trails leading to peaks like Birobong offer more strenuous climbs and potentially more expansive vistas. Regardless of the chosen path, the park provides a refreshing escape into nature, with opportunities to appreciate the changing seasons and the tranquility of the mountains.
Cultural and Spiritual Sites
Another key site is Sangwongsa Temple, accessible via the popular gorge trail. This temple offers a more secluded and tranquil experience, often appreciated by hikers who have completed the scenic route. The journey to Sangwongsa itself is part of the experience, with the trail winding through picturesque surroundings. The park also holds traditional Korean shamanic significance, with several shrines scattered throughout the area, reflecting a deeper layer of spiritual practice and belief.
These cultural sites add a rich dimension to the park visit, allowing travelers to connect with Korea's spiritual past and present. The blend of natural beauty and historical/religious landmarks makes Odaesan a unique and multifaceted destination.
Best Time to Visit and Seasonal Considerations
Spring offers a different kind of beauty, with blooming flowers and fresh greenery emerging after winter. The weather is generally pleasant, making it a good time for exploring the trails without the intense heat of summer. Visitors in March should be prepared for lingering snow or slush on the ground, making appropriate footwear crucial.
While summer provides lush, green landscapes, it can also be warmer and more humid. Winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape, which can be beautiful but may limit access to certain trails and require specialized gear. Considering the weather and the specific natural displays you want to see will help in planning the perfect visit.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit