Named for the five plains that lie between its peaks, Odaesan Mountain National Park (오대산국립공원), located in Gangwon-do, offers hikers and nature enthusiasts a chance to experience the great outdoors. The highest peak of the range is Birobong (비로봉) at 1,563m. The trail I wound up following took me to Noinbong (노인봉) at 1,338m.
A valley carved from rock.
A valley carved in rock.
The portion of Odaesan that I hiked is accessible from Gangneung City. I took a city bus from next to the Intercity Bus Terminal to get to the trail head. From the ranger station next to the parking lot to Noinbong is 9.6km one way. So that makes for a hefty 19.2km hike round trip. There are typical Korean restaurants located at the entrance, but nothing along the trail, so be sure to bring food and plenty of water with you.
Guryong Falls (구룡폭포)
About 3km along the trail is a waterfall called Guryong Falls (구룡폭포). It’s not a particularly spectacular sight, but it provides a refreshing place for visitors to cool off their feet, relax and chat with companions.
Bridges and walkways make for an easy hike.
The trail along the valley is quite easy to hike. Small bridges and walkways allow you to comfortably take in the views. I saw a number of older folks relaxing in the shadows on the sides of the rocky valley floor. I’m certain one could visit the valley here without ascending to Noinbong and have a peaceful and enjoyable afternoon.
Manmulsang Rock (만물상)
About 4.5km along the trail is Manmulsang Rock (만물상), an interestingly shaped rock protruding high out of the ground on the edge of the rocky valley. It’s seeing things like this that often makes my trips worthwhile. Often I just wish I could give myself permission to abandon my hike, relax, eat and drink the afternoon away in such areas.
Noinbong (노인봉) 1,338m
From Manmulsang Rock, you still have 5.5km to go to get to Noinbong. This is about where you will begin to climb to the peak and test your stamina. All-in-all it took me about 3.5 hours to make it to Noinbong and 3 hours to get back to the parking lot.
A view from Noinbong.
The views from Noinbong were fairly good, considering there was a little bit of haze in the sky. For sure, on a clear day, the views must be amazing. I snapped a few photos of the scenery and then sat down to eat my lunch at 1,338m above sea level before starting back down the trail towards home.
A bit of nature.
Sitting at my desk and looking back, the particular trail I hiked in Odaesan National Park is probably best suited for serious hikers due to its length. However, I’m sure anyone can enjoy the valley up to Manmulsang Rock and have an 8.2km round trip hike with a picnic.
Resources
Odaesan National Park (Korea Tourism Organization)
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