Ideal winter travel destinations in Gyeonggi Province: Snow-capped mountains, recreational forests, and arboretums

◇ In the season of snowfall, Gyeonggi Province recommends winter travel destinations within the province such as snow-capped mountains, natural recreational forests, and arboretums. Pictured: Gigantic ice pillars in the Chungnyeonsan Natural Recreational Forest ⓒ Gyeonggi G-News Heo Seon-ryang

It is the season of snowfall, during which we can enjoy beautiful white-blanketed tree branches. The winter season makes travelers all the more excited. As you indulge yourself in walking snow-covered paths, you let go of the old year and set resolutions for the New Year.

In this season, instead of staying home and hiding from the cold, how about taking a winter trip to Gyeonggi Province to celebrate the New Year and to renew your New Year resolutions? 

Boasting 348 mountains and forest paths of 3,000 kilometers, Gyeonggi Province is a place where you can enjoy safe and comfortable hiking trips anytime of the year. Of particular note, Mt. Cheonmasan, Gungmangbong Peak, Mt. Homyeongsan, Mt. Seongnyongsan, and Mt. Godaesan are quite popular among hiking aficionados as they offer beautiful views of snow white mountains as if in the world of Frozen.  

Located in Namyangju City, Mt. Cheonmasan (812m), meaning ‘a mountain that reaches to the sky,’ was named by King Taejo Lee Sung-gye who was impressed by its grandeur. The mountain is very popular as it features diverse trekking courses and the Star Hill Resort. 

Located in Pocheon City, Gungmangbong Peak (1168m) is called the Mr. Jirisan of Gyeonggi Province because its grand form resembles a folding screen from far. The snow-covered ridge trekking route from Mt. Baegunsan to Gungmangbong Peak and to Mt. Cheonggyesan is particularly well known. 

Located in Gapyeong County, Mt. Homyeongsan (623m) was so named because the roar of a tiger was often heard here in the past. People can enjoy amazing views of Cheongpyeongho Lake and Bukhan River from the mountain. Homyeong Lake, located on the top of the mountain and existing in harmony with its surroundings, has a charm like that of Cheonji Lake of Mt. Baekdusan.  

Located on the border of Gapyeong County and Hwacheon County, Mt. Seongnyongsan (1147m) is well known for its wonderful natural forest and graceful forms. Commensurate with its reputation as the Alps of Gyeonggi Province, the mountain has graceful features with strange rocks, bizarre stones, and dead trees.

Mt. Godaesan (832m) in Yeoncheon County is known as the highest peak in the northernmost region of Gyeonggi Province. The snowy landscape and the view of North Korea seen from its top reaffirm its special meaning in connection with the route to Mt. Geumgangsan. The Sintan-ri Station nearby, which is the railroad terminus of the Gyeongwon Line, leaves visitors in reflection.

Natural recreational forests that offer beautiful scenery, comfortable lodging facilities and various experiential programs would be the right destinations for families with children during the school winter break. With sledding on ice hills and many other traditional folk games available in a white winter landscape, these are perfect destination choices for families seeking refreshment.

Within the province, a total of 13 natural recreational forests (Chungnyungsan, Gangssibong, Yumyeongsan, Jungmisan, Saneum, Unaksan, Yongmunsan, Kalbongsan, Yongin, Cheonbosan, Barasan, Cheongpyeong, Seolmaejae) are currently being operated. Detailed information regarding reservations, facilities and experimental programs can be found on their websites.

Another popular destination for family outings and dates is an arboretum where flowers that bloom in a greenhouse — although not as glamorous as in other seasons though — and snowflakes that fall from the sky can be enjoyed together. The Garden of Morning Calm, where visitors can enjoy splendid winter nights with colorful lights, and other arboretums with a forest museums (e.g. Gwangneung Forest, Mulhyanggi Arboretum, Hwanghaksan Arboretum in Yeoju, Shangri-La in Bucheon) are particularly recommended for families and couples to visit.

ⓒ Gyeonggi G-News | Cheon Kyung-nam ckn0403@kg21.net

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