South Korea is truly a hiker’s dream, with hundreds of trails and mountains to pick from. However, the majority of hiking trails are geared toward reaching the summit, leaving the beauty of South Korea’s waterfalls often underappreciated by nature enthusiasts.
The following list will introduce six readily accessible waterfalls in South Korea, including valleys with multiple cascades as well as single falls. All of these waterfalls are family-friendly nature excursions and are either immediately accessible from the parking lot or are a flat trail walk away.
6. Paraeso Waterfall: Yeongnam Alps
Nestled within the scenic Yeongnam Alps, Paraeso Waterfall offers a delightful blend of a stunning mountain waterfall and convenient accessibility. Located just 1km from the parking area, enjoy a short nature hike with this waterfall. It serves as a splendid addition to various regional hiking adventures or a worthwhile day trip for residents of Ulsan and Busan. While swimming isn’t permitted, you are welcome to dip your toes in the water and enjoy a picnic by this public water feature.
- Check out my guide on the Paraeso Waterfall!
Address: National Sinbulsan Waterfall Recreational Forest 울산 울주군 상북면 억새벌길 200-78 https://naver.me/5YaFVhdz
5. Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall: Jeju Island
Jeju Island, a haven for nature enthusiasts, beckons travelers with its large selection of natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring vistas atop Mt. Hallasan to the countless pristine beaches, jeju island is a paradise for those who appreciate the great outdoors. And let’s not forget the captivating waterfalls! Among them, Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall takes center stage with its mesmerizing aqua blue waters and the striking hexagonal columns rock formations also known as columnar joints.
Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall is just one of the many treasures waiting to be explored within the Jeju Jungmun Daepo Coast Area. Here, you’ll also discover the Seaside Jungmun Daepo Columnar Joints and the picturesque Jungmunsaekdal Beach.
Address: Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall Parking Lot 제주 서귀포시 중문동 2231 https://naver.me/FNG7DdyZ
4. Towangseong Waterfall Course: Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park’s Towangseong Waterfall hiking course is the most ‘hike’ style course on this list. This course brings you along a valley to see three famous waterfalls. This one-way course spans 2.8 kilometers (or 5.4 kilometers round trip) and commences with a pleasant 2-kilometer walk along the river and through a forest to reach the first waterfall, (A) Yukdampokpo Falls. Subsequently, after crossing the bridge, you’ll encounter a 0.4-kilometer moderately challenging hike within a narrow valley to reach (B) Biryongpokpo Falls, followed by another 0.4-kilometer strenuous ascent to the (C) Towangseongpokpo Falls Observatory. The final section, though brief, is quite demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. Nevertheless, even if you don’t make it to the last waterfall, the journey is still well worth it!
Address: Seoraksan Main Entrance 설악사 주차장 강원 속초시 설악동 https://naver.me/FQRVYH4N
3. Janggak Waterfall: Soknisan National Park
Nestled within the enchanting Soknisan National Park, Janggak Waterfall is a true gem of summer, serving as both a refreshing swimming haven and the starting point to hiking the main peak of Soknisan National Park. This cascading wonder is the ultimate family destination, offering a relaxing and fun river experience or the perfect complement to your broader national park exploration.
What’s more, Soknisan National Park caters to your every need with its convenient food amenities and delivery services, making it a breeze to turn your visit into an entire day of sun-soaked enjoyment and playful river escapades.
But my absolute favorite feature of this destination is the charming traditional Korean-style gazebo perched gracefully at the waterfall’s summit. It’s an open invitation for all to come and relax, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
- Check out my guide on the Janggak Waterfall!
Address: Soknisan National Park’s Janggak Waterfall 경상북도 상주시 화북면 상오리 장각폭포 https://naver.me/GVN2HO4k
2. Cheonbuldong Valley: Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park earns a double mention on this list due to its reputation as a prime location for witnessing the splendor of South Korea’s valleys and waterfalls. Commencing from the main park entrance, you’ll enjoy a 3-kilometer leisurely stroll through lush forests and along a river before arriving at the towering granite formations of Biseondae Rock/비선대. Along the trail, there are designated points where you can access the river (although swimming is prohibited, dipping your toes is allowed).
For those seeking a more extensive adventure, you can continue beyond Biseondae Rock in the direction of Cheondangpokpo Falls. The journey covers a total distance of 4.1 kilometers (8.2km round trip) from Biseondae Rocks to Cheondangpokpo Falls. Over all this course has a gentle incline and following the meandering river, all while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Address: Seoraksan National Park Main Entrance 설악사 주차장 강원 속초시 설악동 https://naver.me/FQRVYH4N
1. Jubang Valley: Juwangsan National Park
Juwangsan National Park stands as an often-overlooked gem among South Korea’s 22 national parks. It’s renowned for being one of the country’s premier destinations to witness the vibrant fall foliage, and in my personal view, it boasts the most beautiful valley hike in South Korea. The Jubang Valley, an 8-kilometer round trip walking route, is easily accessible for individuals of all fitness levels and is exceptionally family-friendly, treating visitors to breathtaking vistas of multiple waterfalls, the most famous of which is Yongchupokpo Falls.
Beyond the Jubang Valley, Juwangsan National Park offers a wide range of attractions, including its famous lake and its unique dinosaur egg-shaped rock formations. Unfortunately, the park is quite a distance from Seoul, necessitating a weekend getaway. Nevertheless, the journey is unquestionably worthwhile!
Address: Juwangsan National Park Parking Lot 경북 청송군 주왕산면 상의리 299 https://naver.me/GxNkl86G
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Happy Exploring!
-Aurora
