Hallasan applies winter trail rules from 1 October
Published on 10/04/2026 at 01:13 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Hallasan introduced winter trail rules in Jeju, South Korea, on 1 October 2026, bringing earlier entry cut-offs and descent times to the mountain routes. The change affects visitors planning summit hikes during the winter schedule, which runs until 31 March 2027.
Hallasan winter trail rules begin on 1 October
The Hallasan National Park Office of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province applies the winter schedule to all main trails from 1 October 2026. The official reservation system lists the seasonal control times, while Financial News reports the change as a measure covering the period through 31 March 2027.
The main effect is earlier access control. Entry to the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa routes, which lead towards Baengnokdam Crater Lake, closes at 11.30am. Eorimok and Yeongsil close at noon, while Donnaeko closes at 10am. The trails open at 5am under the published winter schedule. Visitors must also begin descending from the Baengnokdam east ridge by 1.30pm, from Witse Oreum by 3pm and from the Nambyeok Junction by 2pm.
Earlier cut-offs shape a high mountain visit
The timetable changes what a visit to Hallasan involves rather than closing the mountain. A traveller aiming for Baengnokdam must reach the relevant control points before 11.30am, and a reservation does not override the stated control times. The official guidance also warns that bad weather can bring partial or full access controls.
Hallasan rises to 1,947 metres and is the highest mountain in South Korea. Its slopes, crater lake and surrounding reserve form part of the Jeju World Natural Heritage area, designated by UNESCO in 2007. The mountain therefore combines a fixed seasonal hiking timetable with a protected volcanic landscape.
The practical link between the rule and the terrain is clear: the 1.30pm summit descent time leaves less room for a late start on the routes to Baengnokdam. The schedule also distinguishes shorter or lower routes, so the winter change is not a single closure across every path.
Visiting Hallasan: what travellers from Western Europe should know
- The winter trail rules apply from 1 October 2026 through 31 March 2027. Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa entry closes at 11.30am, while Eorimok and Yeongsil close at noon.
- For summit routes, hikers must begin descending from the Baengnokdam east ridge by 1.30pm. The official reservation system states that weather warnings can trigger partial or full controls.
- Hallasan stands on Jeju Island in South Korea. The official reservation system covers route reservations and publishes current access notices for visitors.
- The mountain reaches 1,947 metres, so summit routes involve steep volcanic terrain and changing high-altitude conditions. The park advises warm clothing, gloves, spare clothes, warm water and emergency food for winter visits.
- Korean is the official language and the national currency is the South Korean won.
- Entry requirements depend on your nationality; UK travellers can check the FCDO travel advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, Irish travellers the Department of Foreign Affairs at ireland.ie.
Searching for Hallasan on social platforms
These links open searches for Hallasan on each platform.
Frequently asked questions about Hallasan
When do the Hallasan winter trail rules apply?
The winter schedule began on 1 October 2026 and runs through 31 March 2027. It brings earlier entry and descent controls to the main routes.
What time does entry close on the Hallasan summit routes?
Entry to Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa closes at 11.30am during the winter schedule from 1 October 2026.
Where is Hallasan and how do you get there?
Hallasan is on Jeju Island in South Korea. The official reservation system is the place to check route reservations and access notices before travelling to the mountain.
