Chiaksan National Park Park

Chiaksan National Park is a mountain national park in Gangwon Province, South Korea, protecting the slopes and forested valleys around Mount Chiaksan.

The park offers a network of hiking trails, rocky ridges, waterfalls and Buddhist temples set among mixed forest; it is a popular destination for day hikes and for autumn foliage viewing.

The protected area conserves traditional mountain landscapes and temple sites; the mountains and trails have been used by local communities and pilgrims for centuries and were later brought under national protection.

Chiaksan sits in central Gangwon Province near the city of Wonju, on the inland side of Korea’s Taebaek/central highland zone.

• Best time to visit: Peak season for scenery is autumn, when broadleaf forests display fall colour; many trails are steep so allow half a day to a full day for main hikes.

Chiaksan National Park is accessible from cities in Gangwon Province. From Wonju, take local buses or drive northeast toward the park entrances; from Seoul it is a 2-3 hour drive depending on traffic. Regional buses and tour operators provide access from nearby cities.

Check local park offices for trail conditions and seasonal temple festivals.

• For quieter trails head away from the main weekend routes and look for paths favored by locals.
• Spring brings azaleas and rhododendrons - timing a hike for late April-May rewards visitors with vivid blooms.
• Use the park's official trail maps; some mountain trails can be steep and are better tackled with local knowledge.