Escape the humid Korean summer! Discover why Pyeongchang is a top summer destination with cool mountain weather, alpine ranches, natural caves, and lush fir forests. Plan your itinerary today.
Why You Should Visit Pyeongchang in Summer
If you are traveling or living in South Korea during July and August, you know how hot and muggy cities like Seoul or Busan can get. But just an hour and a half away by high-speed train lies a cool, mountainous paradise: Pyeongchang.
When searching for the absolute best places to visit in summer, Pyeongchang constantly tops the list. Situated at an average altitude of 700 meters above sea level, Pyeongchang offers significantly lower temperatures, low humidity, and virtually no muggy nights. If you want to enjoy outdoor adventures without melting in the heat, here is your ultimate travel guide to things to do in Pyeongchang (평창 가볼만한 곳) this summer.
Top Things to Do in Pyeongchang This Summer
1. Daegwallyeong Samyang & Sky Ranches (대관령 삼양 하늘 목장)
Feel like you’ve been transported straight to the Swiss Alps! The vast pastures of Daegwallyeong sit high up in the mountains, where refreshing mountain breezes blow continuously.
- Highlights: Walk through rolling green meadows, feed grazing sheep and alpacas, and take photos next to giant wind turbines against crisp blue skies.
- Pro Tip: Take the tractor bus up to the top ridge for breathtaking panoramic views of Gangwon-do.
2. Woljeongsa Temple & Needle Fir Forest Trail (월정사 전나무숲길)
Located inside Odaesan National Park, Woljeongsa Temple is a peaceful ancient Buddhist temple surrounded by a famous 1,000-year-old Fir Forest Trail.
- Highlights: Walk barefoot along the flat red-clay path under a thick canopy of tall pine and fir trees that block out the summer sun. It is one of the most famous filming locations for the popular K-drama Goblin.
- Vibe: Deep relaxation, fresh forest phytoncides, and cool shade.
3. Gwangcheonseon & baengnyong Caves (광천선굴 & 백룡동굴)
Looking for a natural air conditioner? Head underground! Pyeongchang’s natural limestone caves stay at a constant, chilly temperature of 10°C – 12°C (50°F – 53°F) year-round.
- Gwangcheonseon Cave: Accessible, well-lit boardwalk paths perfect for families.
- Baengnyonng Cave: An adventurous, gear-equipped spelunking tour along the Donggang River for true explorers.
4. Barwangsan Mountain Cable Car & Gi Skywalk (발왕산 케이블카)
You don’t need to do a grueling summer hike to get to the top of Korea’s 12th highest peak. Take the 7.4km cable car ride (one of the longest in Korea) up to the top of Mt. Barwangsan.
- Step onto the transparent glass floor of the Gi Skywalk suspended high above the mountain ridges for sweeping 360-degree views and an exhilarating photo spot
Essential Local Food to Try
No trip to Pyeongchang is complete without tasting local culinary specialties designed to beat the summer heat:
- Memil Makguksu (메밀막국수): Cold, refreshing buckwheat noodles served in an icy, savory broth or mixed with spicy sweet sauce.
- Pyeongchang Hanwoo (평창한우): Premium Korean native beef, famous for its incredible marbling and tenderness due to the high-altitude climate.
How to Get to Pyeongchang from Seoul
Getting to Pyeongchang is fast and convenient for foreign tourists:
- By KTX Train (Fastest): Take the KTX-Eum train from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station to Jinbu Station or Pyeongchang Station. It takes only about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- By Rental Car: Drive via the Yeongdong Expressway (Route 50). It takes around 2 hours from Seoul, giving you full flexibility to explore the spread-out ranches and valleys.
Quick Tips for Summer Travelers
- Pack a Light Jacket: Evening temperatures in the mountains can drop below 20°C (68°F), even in mid-august!
- Navigation Apps: Use Naver Map or Kakao Map instead of Google Maps for accurate public transit directions and walking routes in Korea.
Make the most of your Korean vacation by escaping the city humidity and discovering the breathtaking alpine beauty of Pyeongchang!