If you’re a fan of nature, there are a heap of family-friendly walking trails on Jeju Island.
While the famous Jeju Olle Trails offer some stunning coastal and countryside hikes, there are also a heap of other walking trails on the island that are perfect for families with kids.
Jeju Island has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a shaded forest walk, or a path with stunning scenic views. Here are some of the best kid-friendly walking trails available.
1. Bijarim Forest Trail – Magical Walk Among Ancient Trees
Bijarim Forest is one of Jeju Island’s most peaceful nature spots. It’s home to over 2,800 Bija trees, some centuries old. The well-maintained trail is flat and easy. So it’s a great option if you’ve got little kids. They’ll enjoy spotting twisted trunks and giant tree roots while you can enjoy some fresh air and a quiet atmosphere.
- Distance: 2.8 km (loop)
- Time Required: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
- Why It’s Great for Kids: The path is flat, easy to follow, offers lots of shade, and filled with stunning 500-year-old Bija trees (Torreya nucifera) which are native to South Korea and Japan.
- Fun Fact: The Bija trees produce small, olive-like seeds often used in traditional medicine.
From Jeju City to Bijarim Forest:
- By Car: Depending on traffic, driving from Jeju City to Bijarim Forest takes about 50 minutes.
- By Bus: From the Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal, you can take bus number 810-1 to Bijarim Forest. It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, with buses leaving every 30 minutes.
Visitor Info:
- Operating Hours: Bijarim Forest is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Go early to avoid crowds (anytime before 11 AM).
- Admission Fee: The entrance fee is 3,000 KRW for adults and 1,500 KRW for teenagers and kids.
2. Saryeoni Forest Path – Tranquil Escape
Saryeoni Forest is one of Jeju’s most popular walking trails. It boasts tall cedar trees and a very serene atmosphere (even with your kids!). The main path is wide and well-maintained, so it’s a good option if you’ve got a stroller or very young kids.
You can walk as far as you like before turning back. So, it’s a flexible option to suit all energy levels. In autumn and winter, mist often hangs low between the trees, so it feels a little bit magical!
- Distance: 10 km (can turn back anytime)
- Time Required: 1-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Why It’s Great for Kids: Wide, smooth path and a mystical forest setting
From Jeju City to Saryeoni Forest
- By Car: The trail is about 24 kilometres from Jeju City, and takes about 20 minutes.
- Bus: From Jeju Bus Terminal, take the line 131 bus to Bulgeun Oreum. Buses depart hourly, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.
- By Taxi: Fares range from ₩30,000 (about $20 USD) and ₩36,000 ($25 USD). You can hail one, get your accommodation to call one or download the Kakao Taxi app (available on Google Play and the Apple Store) and book direct (you can pay using cash or card in the taxi without having to link a payment method).
Visitor Info:
- Operating Hours: Access is restricted after 4 PM in summer months (June, July, August) and after 3 PM in the winter for visitor safety. Entry is free.
- Amenities: While the trail offers a natural experience, amenities are a bit limited. I’d recommend bringing plenty of water and snacks for kids.
3. 1100 Altitude Wetland Walk – High-Altitude Adventure (Minimal Effort)
If you’re up for experiencing Jeju’s famous high-altitude landscapes without a long hike, the 1100 Altitude Wetland is a great option. Located along 1100 Road, this short boardwalk loop takes you through a scenic wetland.
The landscape features lava rocks and diverse plant species, especially if it’s shrouded in mist – or covered in snow!
The best bit? It offers panoramic views of Hallasan Mountain! And because it’s so short, kids won’t get tired. They can also keep an eye out for birds and seasonal wildflowers.
- Distance: 1 km (boardwalk loop)
- Time Required: 20-30 minutes
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Why It’s Great for Kids: Short, safe wooden boardwalk with beautiful views
From Jeju City to 1100 Altitude Wetland
- By Bus: From the Jeju City Bus Terminal, take bus number 240 and get off at the 1100 Altitude Service Area (21 stops in total). The wetland is a short walk from the bus stop and well signed.
- By Car: Driving from Jeju City via the 1100 Highland Road takes about 30 minutes. You can also grab a taxi for about ₩20,000 and ₩25,000 (less than $17 USD).
Visitor Info:
- Operating Hours: The wetland is available all year-round. But make sure to check weather conditions before you visit – especially in winter. Entry is free!
- Amenities: Across from the wetland, there’s a rest area with a café and small shops where you can grab some drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.
4. Jeolmul Forest Trail – Shady Haven on a Hot Day
Jeolmul Forest is a great spot for a relaxed family outing. There are a few different short family friendly walking trails that are well-marked and wind through the woods. It’s especially nice on hot days since the tall pine trees provide lots of shade. There’s also a small observation tower where kids can climb to the top for a nice view.
- Distance: 1.5 km – 6 km (various routes)
- Time Required: 30 minutes – 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Why It’s Great for Kids: Well-paved paths and plenty of picnic spots to stop for a rest and a snack!
From Jeju City to Jeolmul Forest Trail
- By Bus: From Jeju City Hall, take the line 181 bus to Gyorae Entrance. Buses leave about every 15 minutes, and the trip takes just under 30 minutes.
- By Taxi: A taxi from Jeju City to Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest is around 14 kilometres and costs between ₩15,000 and ₩18,000. It’ll take you about 15 minutes.
Visitor Info:
- Admission Fee: Entrance costs KRW 1,000 per person, with discounts available for kids and seniors.
- Operating Hours: The forest is open every day from 7 AM to 6 PM. Like all things in South Korea, go early to avoid the crowds!
5. Eoseungsaengak Trail – Mini Volcano Hike with Awesome View
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, Eoseungsaengak Trail is a short volcanic cone hike near Hallasan National Park.
There is a bit of an uphill climb, but it’s definitely manageable for older kids and young ones who love a hike (my 5 year old was fine). It offers a fantastic view of Jeju City and the surrounding forests. Bring snacks to enjoy at the top before heading back down!
- Distance: 1.3 km (one way)
- Time Required: 40 minutes – 1 hour
- Difficulty: Moderate (some uphill sections)
- Why It’s Great for Kids: A short but exciting volcano climb with some great panoramic views.
From Jeju City to Eoseungsaengak Trail
- By Bus: From the Jeju City Intercity Bus Terminal, take intercity bus number 240 and get off at the Eorimok stop. The bus takes about 30 minutes, followed by a short walk to the trailhead.
- By Taxi: A taxi ride from Jeju City to the Eoseungsaengak Trail takes around 30 minutes and will set you back about ₩15,000 (USD $10).
Visitor Info:
- Operating Hours: The trail is open year-round, but start hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon fog and to make sure you’ve got enough daylight to get back down (in winter). Plus in autumn it can get really busy and it can be hard to get a park. It’s free to enter.
- Amenities: The Hallasan National Park Visitor Center is located at the trailhead. There are toilets, information brochures and parking (if you’re driving).
6. Halla Arboretum Trails – A Botanical Wonderland
If your kids enjoy exploring plants, flowers, and trees, a walk through Halla Arboretum is a top choice! This scenic botanical garden is located at the base of Gwangryeong Oreum in Jeju City, South Korea. It has plenty of easy paved trails for families, themed gardens, and lots of space to run around.
The arboretum covers around 196 hectares and is home to nearly 1,100 plant species, including native Jeju flora and exotic subtropical plants. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed walk with plenty of nature-based learning opportunities.
- Distance: Various short loops (1-3 km)
- Time Required: 30 minutes – 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Why It’s Great for Kids: Paved trails, interactive gardens, and lots of space to explore
From Jeju City to Halla Arboretum
Halla Arboretum is situated in Jeju City.
- By Bus: From various points in Jeju City, you can take Bus 451, which stops near the arboretum entrance.
- By Taxi: A taxi ride from central Jeju City to Halla Arboretum typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic, and fares range from ₩5,000 to ₩10,000 ($3 to $7 USD).
Visitor Info:
- Operating Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM in summer and from 9 AM to 5 PM in winter. It is closed on Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day). Free entry!
- Amenities: There are plenty of toilets, picnic areas, and informational signage throughout the arboretum.
Tips for Hiking in Jeju with Kids
- Start early: No one gets going early in South Korea, but the trails will get busy by late morning. Starting early between 8 AM and 10 AM means fewer crowds and cooler weather if you’re walking in hotter months.
- Wear proper shoes; Some of the trails can be slippery after rain, so make sure you get some runners/sneakers with a good grip or lash out on some proper hiking boots for yourself or your kids. Our kids prefer kids hiking boots rather than shoes, which we find better in the wet to keep their feet dry.
- Bring snacks and water: Because many of the trails are a bit remote, there aren’t many shops nearby. Bring some snacks and water—and make sure to take any rubbish with you!
- Check the weather: Jeju’s weather can change quickly (and can be completely different from one side of the island to the other). Always bring light jackets and raincoats, especially if you’re going up into mountain areas.
- Use Kakao or Naver Maps: Google Maps doesn’t work well in Korea. Be sure you download Kakao Maps or Naver Maps before plotting any routes so you don’t get lost.
Jeju Walking Trails, South Korea
Jeju walking trails are an amazing way to experience the island’s unique natural beauty. Plus it’s a great way to keep active (and wear the kids out!).
Whether you’re taking an easy stroll through mystical forests, climbing a mini volcano (no longer active!), or strolling along a scenic boardwalk, these walking trails offer a great balance of adventure and accessibility for kids.
Pack some walking shoes, grab some snacks, and enjoy the best of Jeju’s great outdoors on a family friendly hike!
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