[Harumanbo] The Trail Across the Jung-sangan of Jeju Island, the 'Hwasanseom'... Jeju Olle Course 7-1

Jeju Olle Trail is mostly composed of paths facing the sea due to the island nature of Jeju Island. However, Course 7-1 is different. It is a course where you can fully enjoy another characteristic of Jeju Island, which was formed by the eruption of the volcanic mountain Hallasan. Among all the Jeju Olle Trail courses, it is the closest to Hallasan and is a path that continues only inland without any coastal sections, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenic beauty of Jeju’s mid-mountain area, where dramatic cliffs and natural subtropical forests are formed.

Course 7-1 starts from Seogwipo Bus Terminal and passes through Eongtto Waterfall, Gogeunsan Peak, Hanon Crater, and Geolmae Ecological Park, ending at the Jeju Olle Traveler Center. It is 15.7 km long and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. Due to elevation differences, it may be somewhat challenging.

The first major landmark you encounter on the trail is Eongtto Waterfall. Eongtto means “large pond.” Unlike other waterfalls in Jeju that flow continuously, Eongtto Waterfall is a secret waterfall that only reveals its grandeur immediately after heavy rainfalls of over 70 mm. Usually, no water flows at all, and due to Jeju’s geological characteristic dominated by basalt, water quickly seeps away, making it difficult to see water flowing from the waterfall under normal conditions.

The next destination is Gogeunsan, which stands at an elevation of 393.7 meters. It is a volcanic cone surrounding the new town area of Seogwipo City, offering a wide-open view where you can see not only the Seogwipo area but also the southern sea of Jeju from Marado to Jiguido in the distance. It is also well known as a great spot to view the night scenery of Seogwipo.

After descending Gogeunsan and heading back toward the sea, you will come across another volcanic cone called Hanon Crater. The name is presumed to have originated from “Han Non,” meaning “large rice paddy.” Unlike typical craters formed by lava eruptions, this is a maar-type crater created by the explosion of underground gases or steam. Spring water gushes from the crater, making it one of the rare places in Jeju where rice farming is possible, as the name suggests.

Geolmae Ecological Park was created to protect the nearby Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and preserve the eco-friendly natural environment. It features aquatic plant observation areas, wetland ecosystem observation areas, plum blossom and wildflower observation areas, wild bird observation areas, and wooden walking trails. There are also soccer fields and gateball courts, making it a resting place for various local residents. The name “Geolmae” means “a place where water channels are often blocked and filled in.” It refers to a location where water always accumulates and was formerly a rice paddy.