Chiaksan National Park, located in Wonju, Gangwon Province, draws autumn foliage travelers every October. Among its many routes, the valley trail from Guyongsa Temple to Seoryeom Falls consistently attracts visitors for the way it weaves together vivid fall color, deep history, and natural scenery. You do not need the stamina for a steep summit climb — a leisurely walk along the stream is more than enough to soak in the season.
Why This Trail — Fall Foliage at Chiaksan in October
Autumn color on Chiaksan begins at the higher ridgelines and gradually descends toward the valley floor. As a result, from mid- to late October, walkers on this trail can enjoy both the foliage coloring the slopes above and the leaves at eye level at the same time — a relatively long window that is one of the trail's key appeals. Peak timing shifts from year to year depending on temperatures, so check the Korea Meteorological Administration or the national park's official channels for real-time foliage updates before finalizing your visit.
Trail Overview — Guyongsa to Seoryeom Falls, 3 Hours Round Trip
The trail begins at Guyongsa Temple, a thousand-year-old Buddhist temple founded by the monk Uisang in 668 CE, the eighth year of the Silla king Munmu's reign. Entering the temple grounds, visitors are immediately drawn to a dense grove of Korean red pine trees hundreds of years old. During the foliage season, bursts of red and yellow deciduous leaves among the deep-green conifers create a layered, painterly landscape. The temple itself is worth a leisurely look before or after the hike.
From Guyongsa, the path follows the valley stream past Yongso Pool and through Daegok Safety Center to reach Seoryeom Falls — approximately 3 km one way. The round trip takes about three hours. With no steep inclines, the route is manageable for those with limited hiking experience and for visitors in their 50s and 60s. Along the way, an artificial breeding facility for the endangered Rat Snake (Elaphe schrenckii) and an ecological learning center give families with children an extra point of interest.
Accessible Trail — Strollers and Visitors with Limited Mobility
Visitors who find walking difficult, or those traveling with young children, can use the barrier-free trail (about 30 minutes) that runs from Guyong Visitor Support Center past a viewing platform to Guyongsa Temple and Guyongso Pool. Stroller rentals are available at the visitor support center. Even visitors who cannot make the full round trip to Seoryeom Falls can enjoy the autumn scenery within the temple grounds and the nearby section of the path.
Visitor Tips — Timing and Getting There
On peak-foliage weekends, the parking lot at the Guyong District can fill up early in the morning. Arriving early or taking public transportation from downtown Wonju is advisable. A shuttle bus currently operates within the Guyong District of Chiaksan National Park; confirm the current route and fares directly with the park office at 033-740-9900. If you drive, parking fees are charged by the hour — check the current rate on-site. During the summer season (April through October), the Guyong District gate opens at 4:00 a.m. and the entry cutoff is 2:00 p.m., so arriving late in the afternoon may mean being turned away at the entrance.
