Cycling in South Korea
Including Four Rivers Bike Path, Gangwon Province Gravel, and Jeju Island Coastal Loop. On the map.
The vibe
Paved riverside paths trace historical waterways across the entire peninsula, letting you pedal past modern high-rises and ancient temples on the same afternoon. Early summer and mid-autumn offer moderate temperatures and steady breezes ideal for multi-day touring. The journey feels remarkably self-contained thanks to dedicated infrastructure, frequent convenience store rest stops, and a supportive network of fellow riders.
Four Rivers Bike Path
Incheon
Damon Tighe / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This iconic 633km route connects Incheon to Busan, traversing the heart of South Korea via dedicated, car-free cycling paths. It offers a unique cross-country experience through diverse landscapes, river valleys, and historic cultural sites.
Access. Start at Ara West Sea Lock in Incheon; luggage transfer services are available through local bike shops in major hubs like Seoul and Busan.
Notes. Best in spring or autumn; mostly flat terrain but requires endurance for multi-day touring.
Gangwon Province Gravel
Gangwon State
Kim, Hyun-tae / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
The rugged interior of Gangwon Province offers an extensive network of forestry roads and gravel paths winding through dense forests and remote mountain passes. It is the premier destination for gravel enthusiasts looking for solitude and adventure.
Access. Best accessed via train to Pyeongchang or Wonju; local bike shops provide support for gravel setups.
Notes. Remote areas; ensure you have GPS navigation as trails are not always clearly marked.
Jeju Island Coastal Loop
Jeju
WSTAY.com / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A spectacular 234km circumnavigation of Jeju Island, featuring volcanic coastline, basalt cliffs, and lush tangerine orchards. The route is part of the national bike path network, offering well-marked lanes and stunning ocean vistas.
Access. Bike rentals available at Jeju City and Seogwipo; the island is easily accessible by flight from Seoul.
Notes. Coastal winds can be strong; best ridden in a clockwise direction to stay closer to the sea.
Seoraksan National Park
Gangwon State
Douglas Perkins / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Renowned for its dramatic granite peaks and deep valleys, the roads surrounding Seoraksan offer challenging climbs and breathtaking alpine scenery. It is a favorite for road cyclists seeking steep gradients and high-mountain passes.
Access. Accessible from Sokcho; bike rentals are available in the city center.
Notes. Very steep climbs; recommended for experienced road cyclists.