Monthly Mountain Recommendations: Four Great Trails Perfect for Walking in July

Yangpyeong Water Sound Road Course 4 - Willows and Riverbank Path

This is the highlight trail of Yangpyeong Water Sound Road. It is a course that starts from Yangpyeong Station and follows the waterway along the Namhan River and its tributary, Heukcheon, leading to Wondeok Station. "Naru" means a ferry pier, and while walking, you can encounter a willow ferry pier.

You can walk with a dancing willow tree as your companion. Along the path, there are heartfelt phrases framed beautifully, such as "From one to ten, I am solely grateful," "I am always on your side," and "I love you unconditionally," which are truly touching.

There is a cherry blossom tree section, so it's good to visit in spring.

Course Yangpyeong Station ~ Galsan Park ~ Hyeondeokgyo ~ Yangpyeong Haejangguk Street ~ Mulsori-gil Rest Area ~ Wondeok Station

Distance: 10.8 km. Estimated time: 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Tongyeong Maemuldo Haepum-gil

Maemuldo Haepumgil is a light and tranquil trail perfect for walking leisurely while enjoying Maemuldo and Somaemuldo, and waiting for the next ferry. As you walk along the path and enter the abandoned schoolyard, the blooming hydrangeas and stunning sea scenery greet visitors thanks to the early summer sunshine. Soon, you arrive at an observatory with views of the sea in all directions. Many people rest here at the small pavilion.

Along the course, you can find spots to rest and points to take life photos. Despite it being summer, walking in the cool sea breeze is refreshing.

If you enjoy backpacking, it's good to stay overnight at the closed school playground. It's better to approach the abandoned school from the Daehangmaeul side, where the slope isn't too steep.

Course Danggeummal Village ~ Janggunbong ~ Daehang Village

Distance: 5.2 km, Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Samcheok Deokpung Valley

Deokpung Valley, which originates from Eungbongsan Mountain, is one of the longest valleys in South Korea and is considered the best remote valley during summer. The route that follows this valley straight up to the summit of Eungbongsan Mountain is regarded as one of the most dangerous and rugged among Korea's valley trekking courses. The entire course is not currently open to the public.

However, the trekking course to the intermediate second shelter is well maintained. The iron stairs and handrails are well constructed, making it easy to visit without much effort, attracting many people seeking relief from the heat. You can continuously enjoy the deep and clear stream.

Course Deokpung Village Parking Lot ~ First Reservoir ~ Second Reservoir ~ Return to Starting Point

Distance: 6.2 km (round trip), Duration: 3 hours

Chuncheon Sansu-gil (Togetherness Road - Playful Road - Health Road)

It is a small 2.6 km walking trail created within the National Chuncheon Forest Healing Center. Last year, it was selected as one of the top 50 premium forest trails in Korea known for being great for walking.

There are a total of seven courses within the Forest Education Center, and they are connected in a loop. Among these, the three courses mentioned above are located across the valley opposite the Forest Education Center. They feature gentle slopes and forest paths along watercourses, offering excellent scenery and artistic appeal. They are easily accessible, as you can walk right from the Forest Education Center parking lot.

The valley is called Samhan-gol, and due to its geographical feature where a wide area formed by hills converges into one place, it has abundant water flow and boasts spectacular rocky formations. In addition, numerous waterfalls are formed along the valley, making the scenery outstanding.

A forest camp is required to make a reservation in advance for a visit.

Course National Chuncheon Forest Center Forest Path Starting Point Numbers 1~2~3~10~Sabal Dam

Distance: 2.6 km, Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

This is an article from the July issue of Monthly San.