Autumn National Parks via KTX: The Ultimate Guide to Seoraksan, Naejangsan, and Busan's Geumjeongsan

Autumn in Korea begins in the mountains. The wave of red foliage starts at Seoraksan in the north and travels south over about two weeks, painting the entire country as it reaches Naejangsan and Hallasan. For Koreans, 'autumn hiking' is not just exercise, but a festival celebrating the wonders of nature.

Are you worried that hiking might be too difficult? Or wondering if you can reach the mountain base without a rental car? We have compiled everything you need to know about national park foliage trips that you can conveniently take from Seoul or Busan using KTX high-speed trains and shuttle buses.

What you will learn in this guide:

A practical 'day-trip' itinerary starting from Seoul Station to see the Seoraksan foliage and returning the same day.
'Gentle' foliage trails for each national park that you can enjoy like a stroll, without needing hiking boots.
How to properly enjoy the 'Hasansik' (post-hike meal) culture—a true culinary experience known only to serious hikers.
Strategies for avoiding the massive weekend crowds during foliage season to enjoy nature in peace.

Can you visit Seoraksan for foliage on a day trip using KTX and shuttle buses?

To give you the conclusion first: Yes, it is possible! But you must be diligent.

Route: Seoul Station/Cheongnyangni Station (KTX-Eum) → Gangneung Station → Intercity bus/taxi → Seoraksan Sogongwon.
Schedule: If you catch a train around 7:00 AM, you can arrive at the Seoraksan entrance by around 10:00 AM. You can take the cable car up to Gwongeumseong to enjoy the view, then return to Gangneung Station by 5:00 PM for dinner before heading back to Seoul.

Which national parks require reservations, and what are the entry restrictions?

Entry Hours: National parks in Korea prohibit night hiking. Entry is usually restricted around sunset, so you must start your hike before 2:00–3:00 PM.
Reservation System: Popular courses, such as the Seoraksan Osaek trail or certain sections of Jirisan, may require reservations via the 'National Park Reservation System' to enter. Always check the official website before you visit.

Recommended Gentle National Park Foliage Trails for Beginners

No hiking gear? No problem.

Seoraksan Biseondae Course: A flat trail starting from Sogongwon, offering a stunning combination of strange rock formations and autumn leaves. (Approx. 2 hours round trip)
Naejangsan Naejangsa Course: The 'king of foliage' trails. The tunnel of maple trees from the entrance to Naejangsa Temple is almost entirely flat, making it easy for children to walk as well.
Bukhansan/Dobongsan Entrance: Perfectly accessible within Seoul, simply walking along the valley near the entrance is enough to enjoy the autumn scenery.

Post-Hike Dining (Pajeon, Makgeolli) Spots and Etiquette

There is a joke that the real purpose of hiking in Korea is the restaurant area at the foot of the mountain.

Menu: Freshly grilled 'Haemul Pajeon' (seafood scallion pancake), refreshing 'Makgeolli' (rice wine), and the local specialty 'Sanchae Bibimbap' (wild vegetable bibimbap) are the gold standards.
Etiquette: Keep your hiking poles or backpack organized so they don't bother others in the restaurant. It is best to avoid shouting toasts too loudly.

Best Autumn Mountains Near Busan (e.g., Geumjeongsan)

If you are traveling in Busan, we recommend Geumjeongsan, home to the Beomeosa Temple.

Features: The foliage falling over the quiet, traditional roof of Beomeosa Temple is breathtaking. It is the best choice for travelers without cars as it is easily accessible by bus from Beomeosa Station (Subway).

How to Reserve Shelters or Accommodations Within National Parks

If you want to stay overnight on the mountain to watch the sunrise, you must use the 'National Park Service Reservation System'. (Foreign accounts can be created)
Reservations during peak foliage season are as competitive as 'K-pop concert ticketing,' so you must be ready exactly when bookings open a month in advance.

Can I rent hiking gear?

Shops near the entrances of Bukhansan in Seoul or Seoraksan offer rentals for hiking boots, poles, and knee braces.
Using programs like Eider's 'Dahamkke Sansansan' allows you to rent the latest equipment at an affordable price.

Safety and First Aid for Autumn Hiking

Fallen Leaves: Wet leaves are more slippery than ice. Always watch your step.
Hypothermia: The mountain summit can be 5–10°C colder than the flat ground. You will feel cold quickly once your sweat cools, so always bring a windbreaker.

How to Enjoy National Parks on Weekdays to Avoid Foliage Season Crowds

They say you go to Seoraksan on the weekend just to watch people. If possible, visit on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
If you must go on a weekend, the only way to survive is the 'early bird' strategy: start your hike around 6:00 AM.

Top 3 Foliage Photography Spots Recommended by Photographers

Seoraksan Ulsanbawi: The contrast between the majestic rocks and red foliage is outstanding.
Naejangsan Uhwajeong: The reflection of the pavilion floating on the lake surrounded by autumn leaves is picture-perfect.
Odaesan Seonjae-gil: The best place to capture the autumn sunlight filtering through the forest path.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is there an entrance fee for National Parks?
A: Currently, most national parks in Korea are free to enter. Furthermore, the 'cultural heritage fees' previously charged to visit temples inside the parks were mostly abolished in 2023, making it even more affordable. (Cable cars and parking fees still apply.)

Q2: Is it safe to hike alone?
A: Yes, Korean national parks have very well-maintained trails and are usually quite busy, so it is safe even for women to hike alone. Just be sure to stay on the designated trails.

💡 Traveler Tip

When visiting national parks, consider getting a 'National Park Stamp Tour Passport'. Collecting the unique stamps from each park is fun and makes for a precious souvenir of your trip to Korea.