As autumn deepens, vibrant foliage is painting Korea’s mountainsides. To capture the season’s beauty, here are five must-visit spots recommended by the Korea Tourism Organization for an unforgettable autumn experience.

National Arboretum in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do
Nestled between Mount Unak and Mount Yongam, this vast arboretum is so expansive that exploring it all could take more than a day. The organization suggests exploring its southern trail, including the forest ecology paths, resting plaza, and Yuklim Lake. Look out for the ‘Wishing Tree,’ a centuries-old alder said to grant wishes to visitors.

Odaesan National Park in Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do
Known for the Seonjae Trail that connects Woljeongsa Temple and Sangwonsa Temple, this park offers beautiful autumn views along the way. The nearby Mill Bridge, with walking paths surrounded by dense fir trees, makes for a peaceful, immersive nature experience.

Jangtaesan Recreational Forest in Daejeon
Renowned as a filming backdrop for its striking scenery, this metasequoia forest features a Skyway 10–16 meters above ground and a 27-meter Sky Tower with breathtaking views. The forest remains a favorite for visitors seeking both natural beauty and adventure.

‘Bitgaram Healing Forest’ in Naju, Jeollanam-do
Created for research purposes, this forest holds over a thousand plant species. Entry is free, though a forest healing center offers services for a fee of around 10,000 won, providing a peaceful escape and a scenic walk through lush greenery.

Sangnim Forest in Hamyang, Gyeongsangnam-do
Dating back over 1,000 years, this ancient forest was originally planted to prevent flooding during the Unified Silla Dynasty. The forest features a 1.6-km trail with over 2,000 trees and is near the traditional Gaepyeong Hanok Village, which boasts more than 100 historic Korean houses.

Before the leaves fall, lace up your walking shoes and embark on a memorable autumn journey!