Songnisan National Park | (Official GANP Page)

About

Songnisan National Park is located in the central part of South Korea. The national park encompasses an area of 106 square miles (274.54 sq km) and was the country’s sixth national park.

The national park is nestled in the middle of the Sobaek Mountains with the mountain named Songnisan serving as the focal point of the park. The mountain reaches a summit of 3,471 feet (1,058 m). The range is at the heart of South Korea.

The Jeongipumsong pine tree is one of the local favorites. It has special cultural history to the local people. The region is not know for wildlife, however, some of the favorite hopeful sightings include otter, marten, small-eared cat, and the flying squirrel. There are endemic bird species that complement the wildlife opportunities.

Photos

Things to See

Featured

Songnisan mountain is a highlight of the park and serves as the park’s namesake. The range runs along the spine of South Korea. The pristine wilderness delivers astounding beauty and stunning landscapes. The views are easily some of the highlights for both local and international visitors. The national park is also home to history and amazing cultural significance.

Beopjusa

Beopjusa, also called Beopju Temple, is nestled at alongside the slopes of Songnsian adding to the uniqueness of the mountain. The Bhuddist temple was built in 553 as part of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. This historic site is home to three national treasures and several other items of cultural significance.

The temple and surrounding grounds served as the set for the movie Game of Death starring Bruce Lee.

Songnisan National Park Trails

Hiking and walking around the incredible wilderness is one of the main activities for those exploring the national park. There are a number of trails ranging in difficulty. The majority are moderate to difficult in rating.

Beobjusa Trail

This is a two mile (3.22 km) journey out to the historical temple grounds. The trail is rated moderate although there is only a 157 feet (47.8 m) of elevation gain. Visitors get to see views of the landscapes as well as experience the cultural grounds of the temple.

Cheonwangbong

This moderate rated trail travels a distance of 7.2 miles (11.59 km) with an elevation gain of 2,486 feet (757.73 m). Trekkers will experience the landscape which features a forest, lake, and a waterfall. There are chances to see wildlife and other stunning view of the terrain.

Munjangdae

This is a more challenging hike featuring an elevation gain of 2,404 feet (732.74 m) over a distance of 8.3 miles (13.36 km). Backpacking and strenuous hikers tackle this trek. Although it is partially paved, much of it is rocky terrain. You will see a lake as you meander through the forest.

Munjangdae Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 500 meters.

Description: This trail leads to Munjangdae, a scenic overlook offering expansive views of the Songnisan mountain range.

The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, but the path is well-maintained and accessible to most hikers.

Along the way, visitors can enjoy diverse vegetation and, in spring, a beautiful display of azaleas and cherry blossoms. The summit provides a panoramic view that is especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Beopjusa Temple Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 kilometers round trip, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: Leading directly to the historic Beopjusa Temple, this easy trail is perfect for those interested in Korea’s cultural heritage.

The path is flat and well-paved, making it accessible to visitors of all ages, including families with children.

The temple itself is a significant cultural site, home to the national treasure, a five-story wooden pagoda, and a giant bronze Buddha statue. The surrounding ancient trees add to the tranquil atmosphere.

Cheonwangbong Peak Trail

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 10 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 800 meters.

Description: For those seeking a challenging hike, the trail to Cheonwangbong Peak, the highest point in Songnisan National Park, offers a strenuous but rewarding experience.

Hikers will navigate through dense forests, rocky terrains, and steep inclines. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit, overlooking the entire park and beyond.

This trail is recommended for experienced hikers equipped for a full day’s trek.

Ssanggalsa Temple Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 200 meters.

Description: This trail offers a moderate hike to Ssanggalsa Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple nestled in the forest.

The path is scenic, with lush vegetation and several small stream crossings. The temple is quieter than Beopjusa, providing a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Korea’s Buddhist traditions.

The hike is suitable for those looking for a blend of nature and culture without the rigor of the park’s more challenging trails.

Samnyeonsanseong Fortress Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 300 meters.

Description: This trail circles the historical Samnyeonsanseong Fortress, offering hikers a journey through time amidst natural beauty.

The path is moderately challenging, featuring gentle inclines and declines, forested areas, and open meadows. Along the way, hikers can explore the remains of the fortress walls and gates, providing insight into Korea’s historical defense structures.

The trail also offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the park’s diverse flora.

Munjangdae Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 500 meters.

Description: This trail leads to Munjangdae, a scenic overlook offering expansive views of the Songnisan mountain range.

The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, but the path is well-maintained and accessible to most hikers.

Beopjusa Temple Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 kilometers round trip, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: Leading directly to the historic Beopjusa Temple, this easy trail is perfect for those interested in Korea’s cultural heritage.

The path is flat and well-paved, making it accessible to visitors of all ages, including families with children.

Cheonwangbong Peak Trail

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 10 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 800 meters.

Description: For those seeking a challenging hike, the trail to Cheonwangbong Peak, the highest point in Songnisan National Park, offers a strenuous but rewarding experience.

Hikers will navigate through dense forests, rocky terrains, and steep inclines. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit, overlooking the entire park and beyond.

This trail is recommended for experienced hikers equipped for a full day’s trek.

Ssanggalsa Temple Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 200 meters.

Description: This trail offers a moderate hike to Ssanggalsa Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple nestled in the forest.

The path is scenic, with lush vegetation and several small stream crossings. The temple is quieter than Beopjusa, providing a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Korea’s Buddhist traditions.

The hike is suitable for those looking for a blend of nature and culture without the rigor of the park’s more challenging trails.

Samnyeonsanseong Fortress Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 300 meters.

Description: This trail circles the historical Samnyeonsanseong Fortress, offering hikers a journey through time amidst natural beauty.

The trail also offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the park’s diverse flora.

Park Protection

Songnisan National Park was established to protect the remarkable landscape found throughout the mountain range. Additionally, the park protects the historical Beopjusa temple and the heritage it represents.

The park also protects endangered species both on land and in the rivers running through the park.

Sources

All Trails, Best Trails in Songnisan National Park, https://www.alltrails.com/parks/south-korea/chungcheongbuk-do/songnisan-national-park, retrieved September 2021.
Imagine Your Korea, Songnisan National Park, https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264126, retrieved September 2021.
Korea National Park Service, Songinsan, https://english.knps.or.kr/Knp/Songnisan/Intro/Introduction.aspx?MenuNum=1&Submenu=Npp, retrieved September 2021.
Korea T Track, Songinsan National Park, https://www.koreattrack.com/songnisan-national-park.html, retrieved September 2021.
Korean Temple Guide, Beopjusa, https://koreantempleguide.com/beopjusa-temple-%EB%B2%95%EC%A3%BC%EC%82%AC-boeun-gun-chungcheongbuk-do/, retrieved September 2021.
Peaks and Penguines, Songnisan, https://www.peaksandpenguins.com/koreas-national-parks/songnisan/, retrieved September 2021.