Jirisan Mountain Climbathon

The 37th Jirisan Hwadae Trail Running event (also known as the Jirisan Hwadae Traverse Climathon) is a high-endurance mountain marathon set in the iconic Jirisan National Park, South Korea. Scheduled for Sunday, May 24, 2026, the race is a recognized UTMB Index event, attracting serious trail runners from across the globe. The course is famous for its "Hwa-Dae" traverse, a legendary route that crosses the main ridge of the Jirisan range.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• -- The Traverse: The premier 48km route involves a grueling ascent from Hwaeomsa Temple to Cheonwangbong Peak (the highest point in mainland South Korea) before descending toward Daewonsa Temple.
• -- Registration: Applications are accepted until April 30, 2026. The event uses an early-bird deposit system where fees increase monthly leading up to the race.
• -- UTMB Integration: As a UTMB Index race, finishing results contribute to a runner's global ranking and qualification potential for major international trail events. Timer chips are utilized for precision tracking.
• -- Support & Safety: Only limited energy bars are provided at high-altitude stations like Jangteomok, as the natural spring water there is considered highly reliable. Participants are encouraged to purchase dedicated insurance through the organizer.
• -- Weather Policy: The event proceeds in rain; however, if conditions become dangerous, an "escape route" via Jungsan-ro is implemented for safety.
• -- Organizer: The event is hosted by the Korea Mountain Marathon Federation (Incorporated) and the Korea Trail Runner Federation.

Regional Context and Environment:

• -- Location: Jirisan is South Korea’s first and largest national park, spanning three provinces (Gyeongsangnam-do, Jeollanam-do, and Jeollabuk-do). It is considered one of the three "Holy Mountains" of Korea.
• -- Geography: The terrain is exceptionally rugged, featuring deep valleys and granite peaks. The Hwa-Dae traverse is widely considered the "holy grail" of Korean mountain trekking, typically taking hikers two to three days, though trail runners aim to finish within the day.
• -- Climate: Late May in the high Jirisan ridges often features unpredictable weather. While the base may be temperate, the peaks can remain shrouded in mist with temperatures significantly lower than the valleys.
• -- Cultural Heritage: The course passes ancient Buddhist temples like Hwaeomsa and Daewonsa, blending intense physical exertion with the spiritual and historical heritage of the region.

The 37th Jirisan Hwadae Trail Running 2026 offers an elite-level mountain challenge that tests the limits of endurance against the most revered natural landscape in the South Korean peninsula.