As spring is upon us, we at Asia Society Korea thought it would be fun to share with you some of the lesser-known tourist spots throughout Korea. Each month we will preview a different location, revealing why it’s special, what you must see, and how to get there. We kick-off our series with a hike up Samaksan Mountain, where we also get the added bonus of seeing Deungseon Falls.

With around 70% of the peninsular covered by mountains, it’s little surprise that hiking is incredibly popular in Korea. Despite there being a myriad of trails to pick from, most end up on the better-known routes, which can hinder the experience due to over-crowding. Thus, it’s worthwhile to do a spot of research and travel a little further to find something more tranquil. 

Samaksan offers three peaks, and while the highest, Yonghwabong at 654m, may be smaller than others around the country, it does offer breathtaking views of Chuncheon, Uiamho Lake, and Bukhangang River. The most popular course starts from Uiamho Lake and finishes at Deungseon Falls, or vice versa. The part of the course next to Uiamho is quite difficult with some steep inclinations, so those looking for a more leisurely day should start from Deungseon and return back the way they came once they have reached the peak. The entire route is a pleasure to walk with a variety of small and large waterfalls between cliffs and unique rock formations. On warmer days, many visitors cool off in the water, but beware that it stays very chilly even on the hottest days of the year. Throughout the climb, there are sneak peeks of the view that awaits, and eventually the trail emerges from the thick forest to a stunning panoramic view of Uiamho Lake and Bukhangang River.

Located just outside of Seoul, Samaksan Mountain and Deungseon Falls is the perfect destination for weekend outings for those in the Seoul and Gyeonggi areas. It takes around 90 minutes to get there by car, and it’s also accessible by public transport via the Gyeongchun Line. Gangchon Station is nearest to the mountain, and bus number 50 will drop you off right at the starting point.

In terms of food, there are a number of restaurants located at the entrance next to Deungseon. Thus, if you are up for the challenge, most would recommend starting from the Uiamho Lake side and finishing at one of the quaint restaurants for a late lunch. The restaurants serve the typical menu you would expect to see on or around hiking courses such as jeon and bibimbap, but I would recommend also trying the seasoned deodeok. Also, for those not driving, it is almost obligatory that you wash it all down with a drop of the local makgeolli. Another option is to make the short trip into Chuncheon and visit its famous Dak-galbi Street.

Despite the lack of snow, we’ve endured a Baltic winter, and for many of us the result has been endless days camped out on the sofa watching the Winter Olympics on television. Now with the weather starting to warm up, there are no excuses not to get out there and enjoy what South Korea has to offer, and what better way to start than a visit to Samaksan Mountain.