I FAILED to SUMMIT KOREA ALPS (Yeougnam-Alps (영남알프스)) - Trail100โล

I FAILED to SUMMIT KOREA ALPS (Yeougnam-Alps (영남알프스)) - Trail100โล Yeongnam Alps (영남알프스) are a beautiful and popular mountain range in the southeastern part of South Korea, often called the "Alps of Korea" for their striking scenery. Here are the key details about them: Location: They are an outlying range of the Taebaek Mountains, spanning across parts of Ulsan Metropolitan City and Gyeongsangnam-do (South Gyeongsang Province), including the cities of Miryang and Yangsan, as well as Cheongdo and Gyeongju in Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang Province). Getting to the Yeongnam Alps, specifically the Yeongnam Alps Complex Welcome Center (영남알프스 복합웰컴센터), from Ulsan Station (KTX) is most conveniently done by combining public transport and a short taxi ride, or by taking a taxi directly. The driving distance is approximately 45 km, and the trip takes about 35–40 minutes by car. Detailed Route Segments The route is typically a linear course, meaning your starting and ending points are different. You will be hiking in the following order: 1. Yeongnam Alps Complex Welcome Center → Ganwolsan (간월산) The trail begins with a sustained climb from the Welcome Center. You can choose a steeper forest path or a longer, winding utility road to ascend to the ridge. The first major landmark is Ganwoljae Pass (approx. 900m elevation). This is a great rest spot with shelters and restrooms. The actual summit of Ganwolsan (1,069m) is a short detour (less than 1 km one-way) from the pass. You will need to return to Ganwoljae to continue the traverse. 2. Ganwolsan → Sinbulsan (신불산) From Ganwoljae, the path leads directly up to Sinbulsan (1,159m), the highest peak of the three. This section is a beautiful part of the main ridge trail, offering expansive views of the silver grass fields and the surrounding peaks. 3. Sinbulsan → Yeongchuksan (영축산) The ridge continues south, descending slightly to the Sinbuljae Pass before climbing again to Yeongchuksan (1,081m). The views along this stretch are some of the most famous in the Yeongnam Alps, showcasing the massive silver grass meadows. 4. Yeongchuksan → Tongdosa Temple (통도사) From the summit of Yeongchuksan, the trail takes a distinct descent path towards the southeast. You will follow signs for Tongdosa Temple or Jisan Village. The descent is generally long and can be steep in sections. It will take you through beautiful valleys and eventually to the historic temple grounds of Tongdosa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where your hike concludes. Important Notes for Planning Difficulty: This is a long and strenuous hike (over 15 km with significant elevation gain/loss) that should only be attempted by experienced hikers who are prepared for a full-day excursion. Time: Start early, especially if you plan to visit Tongdosa Temple afterward. Water and Food: There are limited places to refill water or purchase food between the Welcome Center area and the end of the descent at Tongdosa. Carry enough supplies for the entire duration. Transportation: Since this is a linear route, arrange transportation (e.g., bus, taxi) from Tongdosa Temple to your next destination or back to the Welcome Center. Tongdosa is well-connected by bus to nearby cities. This hike offers a spectacular experience, combining the open, alpine views of the ridge trail with the cultural finish at one of Korea's most important Buddhist temples. Time Chapter 0:00 - Intro to Yeongnam Alps 1:03 - Ulsan station to Complex Welcome Center 2:08 - Complex Welcome Center to Ganwoljae Pass (Shelter) 5:50 - Ganwoljae Pass to Ganwolsan (간월산) 9:59 - Ganwolsan to Sinbulsan (신불산) 12:25 - PlanB: Return to Ganwoljae Pass 15:09 - Outro