Thinking of hiking Hallasan? I took on South Korea’s highest peak during a steamy August trip.
This guide covers what to expect, what I got wrong, and how to make your own climb smoother.
Hiking & Trekking in Asia
Mountain Treks and Independent Hiking Across AsiaThis page brings together my hiking and trekking experiences across Asia, including Sapa in Vietnam, Hallasan and mountain regions in South Korea, and a comparison of major treks in Nepal.
Most of these trips were done independently, without guides, and the posts focus on how I planned them and what I ran into along the way. If you’re looking for practical insight on where to hike and how to approach it, start here.
🇰🇷 Hiking in South Korea
These posts cover Hallasan on Jeju Island, summer hiking at Yongpyong and High 1, and trekking in the Daegwallyeong area. Each one reflects how I approached the hike, including access, timing, and conditions on the ground.
Yongpyong Resort Summer Guide (2025)
Think Yongpyong is just for skiing? Summer brings gondola rides, scenic trails, and dog-friendly adventures in Korea’s cool mountain highlands — just a few hours from Seoul.
High 1 Resort Summer Guide (2025)
Think High 1 Resort is just for ski season? Summer brings dog-friendly mountain trails, gondola views, and family fun at Water World.
We returned to the Hill Condo for a cooler, quieter adventure—here’s everything you need to know.
Exploring Daegwallyeong’s Scenic Ranches: Trekking & Camping Guide
Discover the scenic ranches and dog-friendly trekking spots of Daegwallyeong, Gangwon-do.
From Pure Sheep Ranch to Han Neul Sky Ranch and Sanneomi Ranch, this guide covers the best trails, camping spots, and tips for exploring this stunning region year-round.
🇻🇳 Trekking in Vietnam
These posts focus on trekking in Sapa, including self-guided routes, a three-day itinerary, and reaching viewpoints like Fansipan. They reflect how I planned and navigated the region without using a guide.
Sapa 3 Day Itinerary: Trekking, Fansipan, and Cat Cat Village
A flexible, f3-day itinerary for Sapa, Vietnam including a self-guided trek, Fansipan summit by cable car, and a colorful village finale.
No tours, no stress.
Fansipan Peak Cable Car Guide: Cost, Tickets & What to Expect (2025)
Ride Vietnam’s highest cable car to the summit of Fansipan. This self-guided guide covers tickets, transport, summit tips, and what to expect at the Roof of Indochina.
Sapa Without a Tour: Can You Trek and Explore on Your Own?
I visited Sapa without a guide, trekking to Lao Chai, exploring Fansipan, and getting around on my own. It worked, but not without tradeoffs. Here’s what to expect and when a guide is worth it.
🇳🇵 Trekking in Nepal
These posts focus on trekking in Nepal, including a comparison of the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp. They reflect my experience on both routes and how I approached planning and preparation.
Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp: Which Trek Should You Choose?
Trying to decide between the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp? I went through the same choice and ended up trekking Annapurna. Here’s how they compare.