Every year, I make it a point to visit Witse Oreum at least twice — once in winter and again in spring when the Azaleas bloom. However, this winter, I missed my usual trip. Telling myself I’d go soon, I kept putting it off, only to realize that winter had already flown by.
Even though it snowed heavily just the other day, I couldn’t bring myself to take out my hiking gear. Now, with the snow beginning to melt and turn slushy, it seems like I can only look forward to next winter.
Although I didn’t get the chance to hike up a snow-covered mountain this year, I did visit the serene, snow-blanketed Saryeoni Forest Path and Meochewat Forest Path, which were just as wonderful.
Witse Oreum in Heavy Snow
Two years ago, after a heavy snowfall, my wife and I, along with other hiking companions, made our way to Witse Oreum. The experience was so memorable that I wanted to revisit it and organize my thoughts along with the photos we took that day.
For me, Witse Oreum is a place I must visit at least twice a year. The winter landscape, blanketed in pristine white snow, is breathtaking, while in spring, when the Azaleas bloom in vibrant red, is absolutely mesmerizing.
Honestly, the hike from the entrance to the stairs just before reaching the summit has become quite familiar to me. It no longer evokes any particular emotions — it's simply a tiring but necessary journey to reach the peak.
However, the moment we climb the final steps and see Baengnokdam Crater Lake and the vast sky peeking through the fir trees, I can’t help but gasp in awe. Walking across the wide-open snowfield, with the vivid blue sky and Baengnokdam seemingly within arm’s reach, is an unforgettable sight. From Witse Oreum, the snow-covered peaks stretching toward Eorimok provide an added visual treat.
Hidden Gems Along the Trail
On the way down toward the mountain shelter beneath the Namyeok Cliff, the gentle sound of flowing water catches my attention. This is Noru Spring — a place easy to miss if you’re too focused on reaching Baengnokdam. If you ever visit Witse Oreum, I highly recommend stopping here to taste the clean, refreshing water flowing from the upper streams of Hallasan.
Unfortunately, in winter, the spring often freezes over, cutting off the water flow, or it gets buried under the snow, making it difficult to locate. After a heavy snowfall like this year’s, it's almost impossible to find.
The panoramic view of the Oreums (parasitic cones) from Witse Oreum is quite different from the ones seen from Hallasan’s mid-mountain areas. From here, you get a clear view of the western Oreums — Nokkome Oreum, Saebyeol Oreum — just hearing their names brings excitement.
As we walked through the snow-laden fir trees, I imagined the Azaleas slowly emerging as the winter snow melts.
By the time the bracken ferns have sprouted their new shoots for the seventh time, the Azaleas — nourished by the minerals from the melting snow — will be stretching skyward in full bloom. I’m already looking forward to returning to Hallasan in spring.
At the viewpoint near the shelter, we spotted some people sledding down the slopes. With just the right incline and a wide, untouched snowfield, it's a perfect natural sledding ground. I can only imagine how rewarding that ride must feel for the kids who endured a tough climb with their parents. A little bit of fun in the snow makes for wonderful memories.
Meanwhile, couples were playfully falling backward into the snow, creating their own winter love stories. The charm and romance of winter are truly beautiful.
However, I also noticed a tourist midway up the trail wearing knee-high boots without crampons. While Witse Oreum's terrain is generally easier to navigate compared to the Gwaneumsa or Seongpanak routes, even small inclines can become dangerous in winter. Personal safety is one thing, but an ill-prepared hiker can also pose a risk to others. Proper winter hiking gear is an absolute must.
One of the most unforgettable moments of reaching the shelter at the summit used to be enjoying a steaming cup of instant ramyeon. A few years ago, they used to sell ramyeon at the top, but unfortunately, that's no longer the case.
I’m not entirely sure why they stopped, but I assume it was due to environmental concerns, such as waste disposal.
While it is still possible to eat packed food at the shelter, carrying hot water all the way up is no easy feat, and eating in the freezing cold is no joke either. As much as I miss it, I’ll be sure to pack an eco-friendly meal next time, perhaps during the Azalea season when the weather is milder.
Hwangchil Chicken Shabu-Shabu
After wrapping up our hike around 1 PM, we headed to a Hwangchil Chicken Shabu-Shabu restaurant to satisfy our hunger. This dish features a rich, slow-simmered broth infused with hwangchil (Dendropanax Morbiferus), into which fresh vegetables are added for a hearty hotpot experience.
The deeply flavored broth, enjoyed after a winter hike, is absolutely divine. After savoring the vegetables, the oven-roasted native chicken takes center stage. And finally, a rich, savory porridge made from the leftover broth brings the meal to a satisfying close. After enduring the biting wind and an exhausting climb, every bite becomes a treasured memory, making the journey all the more worthwhile.
Whether blanketed in white during winter or painted in vibrant red in spring, Witse Oreum never fails to leave a lasting impression. The journey, the views, and even the simple moments — like a sip of fresh spring water or a warm meal after the hike — are all part of what makes this place so special.
Can't wait for next winter to experience it all again. Until next time, Witse Oreum!