Halla's lesser-known trail no walk in park

Halla's lesser-known trail no walk in park

Because of its thick trees and rocks covered by moss, the first course of dullaegil of Mount Halla evokes the feeling of a secret garden. By Shin Dong-yeon

Of all the four seasons, fall is the best time of year to go hiking. It's neither hot nor cold, and the weather is just perfect for hikers who want to walk for hours. 

The JoongAng Ilbo recently walked the first course of the dullaegil at Mount Halla, Jeju. Dullaegil means a walking trail that is formed around the circumference of the mountain. 

The dullaegil at Mount Halla was designed by the Korea Forest Service. Two courses are available now, but the Korea Forest Service plans to add more and complete the trail by the end of 2016. When the courses are complete, the dullaegil will encompass 800 kilometers (497 miles). 

The first course stretches about nine kilometers. It starts from the site of Beopjeong Temple and ends at Donnaeko Valley. 

"Jeju has three famous trails. One of them is Jeju Olle trail, another is Saryeoni Forest and the other is Mount Halla dullaegil", said Kim Seo-young, 46, an official working at the management department of the dullaegil. 

"Olle trails link this village and that village, and they remind people of old but familiar narrow paths. Trails at Saryeoni Forest are more like thick forest trails and dullaegil of Mount Halla has the best of the two trails", added Kim. 

Saryeoni Forest will be part of the dullaegil when the entire course is complete.

Here are some more photos:

The entrance of the first course of Mount Halla dullaegil; Center, the entire trail is covered with coconut skins to make it easier for hikers to walk.

A shrine that was built to pay tribute to Buddhist monks who fought for independence during the Japanese colonial rule is on the first course.

When the first course nears its end, Retinispora trees come into sight.

For the complete article, please see Hancinema