A Magical Winter Wonderland Hike in Korea, 5 days (GUARANTEED)

Discover the magic of a Korean winter on this journey through snow-covered peaks and frozen rivers. Experience a wonderland of massive ice sculptures and try traditional ice fishing on a frozen pond. Embark on a gentle hike through “snow flowers” to panoramic summit views. Trek pristine ridges where delicate rime ice crystals coat every branch in a spectacular display. Finally, explore the dramatic volcanic canyons of the Hantangang River, a UNESCO Global Geopark, crossing the exhilarating Milky Way Bridge above frozen waters. Come for an adventure and discover the unforgettable beauty of Korea’s winter wilderness.

Duration: 5 days

DEBUT Departure Date: 18 – 22 January 2027

A STRONG NOTE on the Winter Adventure: weather can be unpredictable, so our itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind. Our guide will monitor real-time conditions and, if needed, adjust the route to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Occasionally, snow forecasts or park restrictions may require a last-minute change to a planned location. Please rest assured that any adjustment is made with your best experience in mind. We appreciate your understanding that these decisions are part of the adventure. Should changes occur, we will provide a wonderful alternative. Your flexibility is what makes these journeys unforgettable.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Incheon – Cheongyang – Daejeon

Meet and greet at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2 at 08:00 AM.

Transfer to Gimpo Aegibong Peace Ecological Park, South Korea’s closest observation point to North Korea. Nestled in the Jo River basin, this former Korean War military outpost was transformed in 2021 into a symbol of hope. The park blends a restored observation deck with a thriving ecological habitat, offering rare views into North Korea while embodying a theme of peace and the future. Cross the suspension bridge to Jogang Observatory and ascend to Rooftop 154, the park’s main vantage point located just 1.4 kilometres from North Korea. From here, high-powered telescopes offer a surreal view of everyday life across the border, including villages, residents working in rice paddies, and iconic landmarks like propaganda slogans and the Juche Tower.

Sit back, relax as we journey southwards to visit the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival, a spectacular winter event held annually at Alps Village in Cheongyang. This beloved festival transforms the mountain village into a breathtaking winter wonderland, featuring massive, intricately designed ice fountains and frozen sculptures that are especially magical when illuminated after dark. Explore a dazzling landscape of ice tunnels, an ice igloo, and a fairy-tale castle crafted entirely from ice, offering countless opportunities for unforgettable photo opportunities.

Participate in ice fishing. Through pre-drilled holes in the frozen pond, try your hands at catching smelt – a small, silvery fish. This cherished Korean winter activity is both relaxing and exciting, offering a genuine connection to the season’s traditions. For those looking for a more primitive challenge, a bare-handed ice fishing experience is also available. Then have your catch prepared on-site, tasting the fresh, crispy smelt as a delicious reward for your efforts.

Meal: Lunch, Dinner

Stay: 4* hotel, Daejeon

STRONG NOTE: weather can be unpredictable. The guide will monitor real-time conditions and, if needed, adjust the route to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Snow forecasts or restrictions may require last-minute change. Please be assured that any adjustment is made with your best experience in mind. We appreciate your understanding. Your flexibility is what makes these journeys unforgettable.

Day 2 Daejeon – Deogyusan – Chungbuk/Andong

Snow Flower Hiking

Journey to Muju Deogyusan Resort located on the north face of Deogyusan – the fourth highest mountain in South Korea.

Deogyusan (德裕山) is renowned as South Korea’s premier destination for winter hiking, famous for its stunning “snow flowers” and “frost-covered trees.” These icy formations, distinct from ground frost, require specific conditions to bloom: altitudes above 1,000 metres, temperatures below -6°C, and humidity over 90%. Deogyusan meets all these criteria perfectly, with its highest peak, Hyangjeokbong, standing at 1,614 metres. The Geumgang River and moist air from the West Sea create ideal humidity, resulting in heavy snowfall that blankets the mountain in a pristine, silvery landscape throughout the winter, attracting hikers from across the country.

Take a gondola ride to Seolcheonbong Peak. A gentle hike along well-maintained wooden steps and decks to Hyangjeokbong Peak, the mountain’s highest point. Along the way, walk through a stunning tunnel of 300 to 500-year-old yew trees blanketed in snow. From the summit, enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, including Jungbong Peak, and on clear days, even Jirisan and Gayasan Mountains in the distance (weather permitting). The easy hike leaves ample time to admire the snowy landscape, sheltered by the snow-covered trees. Walk leisurely on a snow-covered path while admiring the snowflakes, pine trees, etc. Then a short hike up to Jungbong Peak (1,594 metres). The path isn’t steep, making it a leisurely stroll.

Make yourself comfortable as we travel to Gyeongsangbuk-do/Chungcheongbuk-do.

Meal: Breakfast, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: 4* hotel, Chungbuk/Andong

Hiking Distance: up to 4 KM approx. Hiking Hours: 4 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation: +350M / -350M approx.

Day 3 Chungbuk/Andong – Sobaeksan – Hongcheon/Chuncheon

Snow Flower Hiking

Enjoy the journey as we venture towards Sobaeksan (小白山).

Sobaeksan, or “Little White Mountain,” is a vital part of the Baekdudaegan mountain spine. In winter, it becomes a world of white as humid northwest winds create the spectacular “sanggodae” (rime ice) that coats every branch like delicate white coral.

Our hike begins at the Jungnyeong Visitor Centre. Follow a well-maintained, paved road with a gentle gradient, ensuring a safe hiking experience even for those new to snowy terrain. Walk through enchanting “snow tunnels” formed by the frosted trees lining the path, with occasional openings offering breathtaking views of the majestic Baekdudaegan range.

As you reach the summit of Yeonhwabong Peak (1,383 M), the landscape opens into a spectacular 360-degree panoramic vista. Capture the perfect winter memory at the Yeonhwabong summit stone, with the endless, snow-covered ridgelines of the Baekdudaegan as your backdrop.

Lean back and take in the scenery as we head towards Gangwon-do.

Meal: Breakfast, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: 4* hotel, Hongcheon/Chuncheon

Hiking Distance: 14 KM approx. Hiking Hours: 6 – 7 hours approx.

Accumulated Elevation: +683M / -683M approx.

Day 4 Hongcheon/Chuncheon – Cheorwon – Seoul

Hantangang River Ice Trekking Festival

Settle in as we make our way to Cheorwon.

The Cheorwon Hantangang River is a breathtaking natural wonder and part of a UNESCO Global Geopark. Unlike any other river in Korea, the Hantangang was formed by volcanic activity, where basaltic lava once covered the ancient granite bedrock. Overtime, the river eroded this landscape, carving a deep, U-shaped canyon with dramatic vertical cliffs and stunning columnar joints that now form the centerpiece of the visit. Embark on an ice trekking course on this unique landscape along the frozen river, passing by spectacular sights like Jiktang Falls and Madangbawi Rock. When the river is not frozen, experience the columnar joints from water level, an experience as if you are walking on water.

The Hantangang Columnar Joint Trail is designed as a “feeling road” that delivers both dizzying thrills and beautiful scenery. You’ll walk along cliffs and through the voids of Sundam Valley, surrounded by colourful rocks and the river’s most representative columnar joints. Connecting two sections of this trail is the impressive Milky Way Bridge, a 180-meter-long single-tower asymmetrical suspension bridge. This bridge offers unparalleled views of the basalt canyon ecosystem below. Adding to the thrill is the Zandora Walkway, a frame-structured path suspended tens of metres above the ground. You may look down directly at the canyon floor and gaze out at the columnar joints from an entirely new perspective. The trail is interspersed with 13 gently swaying suspension bridges add to the adventure along the way.

A final highlight is the Sundam Sky Observatory, a semicircular structure that juts out over the river, appearing to float in midair. A section of its floor is made of reinforced glass, offering the exhilarating sensation of walking on air above the water while taking in the breathtaking scenery of this truly remarkable landscape.

Take a moment to unwind as we travel to Seoul.

Upon arrival at the accommodation in Seoul, bid farewell to our Korean team and the magical winter wonderland hiking trip concludes.

Meal: Breakfast, (packed) Lunch, Dinner

Stay: 4* hotel, Seoul

Hiking Distance: up to 12 KM approx. Accumulated Elevation: +225M / -212M approx.

Day 5 Depart Seoul or extend

Official check out time is 12:00 PM.

For those heading to Incheon Airport for your onward flight, there is an airport limousine shuttle nearby to the accommodation. The bus-stop is around 1 – 5 minutes’ walk away. The coach fee is around KRW 15,000 to KRW 20,000 per person. The coach journey is around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Meal: Breakfast

Inclusions

~ 4 nights in 4* accommodation;

~ 4 breakfasts; 4 lunches and 4 dinners;

~ arrival airport group transfer from Incheon Airport Terminal 2. Transfer will leave at 08:00 AM;

~ necessary transportation as required per itinerary;

~ admission/festival/national park fees where needed;

~ provision of crampons and gaiters;

~ provision of Korean-Speaking Hiking Guide;

~ provision of English-Speaking Guide and Korean-Speaking Driver;

~ Travel Wander 2027-themed dri-fit shirt;

~ supported by a bilingual (English/Mandarin-speaking) Travel Wander Trip Facilitator.

Exclusions

~ air travel to Seoul (Incheon), South Korea;

~ visa and/or K-ETA arrangement, if required;

~ comprehensive personal travel insurance;

~ expenditure on personal effects;

~ tipping for the Korean team;

~ anything not specified in the trip inclusion and itinerary.

Price

Twin/Double Occupancy: SGD 2,728 per person

Single Occupancy: SGD 3,390 per person

< WBWG Rate Applicable >

Important Notes

~ A deposit, SGD 300 is required at the time of booking. Deposit paid is non-refundable and non-transferrable unless trip is withdrawn or cancelled by Travel Wander.

~ Full or balance payment is 60 days prior to departure.

~ Only book your air ticket to Seoul Incheon, South Korea when you have been informed to do so.

~ This trip requires minimum 10 hikers to depart and the maximum group size is 16 hikers.

~ Should you require a visa to enter South Korea, it is your responsibility to obtain such document before departure. Check your entry requirement and apply for your visa HERE if you require.

~ Every effort is made to ensure the trip and included experiences take place during the ideal time or period of the year, however certain sights are subject to weather conditions and seasonal variations that are not within the control of Travel Wander. Although you may get to see and/or experience, we cannot guarantee the sightings.

~ Our utmost priority is always the safety of the hikers. Therefore, the inclusion of the itinerary may be altered due (not limited) to bad weather, local conditions, accommodation bookout, the skill levels of the hikers and/or other unexpected circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to make changes necessary, and there will be no refund should you decide to discontinue the trip.

~ Important Winter Hiking Advisory: winter hiking is essentially dependent on weather conditions and safety regulations. Please be advised that the planned itinerary may be adjusted in real-time to provide the most suitable trail based on current conditions. Hiking routes, national parks, and specific mountains mentioned in this itinerary are subject to change on short notice due to snow forecasts, weather events, or access restrictions imposed by the National Park authorities. By booking this trip, you acknowledge and accept that last-minute changes may be necessary for your safety. We reserve the right to make such adjustments as required. In the event that you choose to terminate the trip due to these changes, no refund will be issued, and any additional arrangements made thereafter will be at your own expense.

~ Provision of meals during the trip showcases the local authenticity, cuisine and food culture of the places we are visiting. All food allergies and dietary restrictions must be disclosed to Travel Wander at the time of booking. We will use reasonable efforts to accommodate special requirements or requests but this is not always possible given the nature of the destinations visited and availability of options. We cannot guarantee that dietary needs or restrictions can be accommodated. Travel Wander is not liable for failure to accommodate or fulfil such requests. Meal supplementary charges may be imposed to meet your dietary needs.

~ Trip grading is an indication of the difficulty of the activities included. Preparation and engaging in regular exercise to maintain good physical condition and active lifestyle prior to the trip will be most beneficial in ensuring you have full enjoyment of the trip. We are glad to discuss your concerns and answer your queries.

~ Because hiking requires a certain level of cardio and stamina exertion, it may not be suitable for hikers with chronic and/or acute diseases. Please consider your physical condition before booking. Hikers must ensure they are medically and physically able to hike.

~ If the hiker presents difficulty in completing the day’s hike, we strongly discourage the hiker from continuing for the day with top priority on the safety of the hiker and team in mind. The hiker can rest onboard the coach. There is no refund on this portion of the trip.

~ There is no refund for uncompleted hiking distances or missed inclusions.

~ For hikers who are travelling alone and have opted for twin-share occupancy, Travel Wander will do our utmost to pair you with another hiker of the same gender to share the room. If this is not possible, hikers are required to top up the difference for a single room. Should you choose not to go on this trip, the deposit paid will not be refunded.

~ Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. See HERE for details.

~ By making a payment to Travel Wander LLP, you (and on behalf of the rest of travelling companions) acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to Travel Wander’s Booking Conditions and Other Important Information: Cancellation and Amendment, Modes of Payment, Privacy Policy, Indemnity Policy, and Terms & Conditions.

Activity	Hiking
Country	Korea
Hiking Grade	Grade 2+ – Beginner Plus
Season	01 – January

A Magical Winter Wonderland Hike in Korea, 5 days (GUARANTEED)