Discover the Enchanting Silver Birch Forest in Yeongyang
If you're looking to escape the frustrating concrete jungle of the city and seek pure green comfort provided by nature, pay attention to this hidden gem. The breathtaking sight of hundreds of thousands of silver trees reaching skyward has recently gained popularity through social media.
The rustling leaves and fresh air that caress your senses with every breeze are enough to blow away accumulated stress. Its gentle slopes make it an ideal summer retreat for families looking for a light weekend getaway.
Located in the Suvi-myeon area of Yeongyang County, the Jukpari Birch Forest is a hidden treasure nestled at the foot of Geummasan Mountain, standing at 1,219 meters above sea level. Since its establishment in 1993, when approximately 2 tons of seeds were planted, public access has been strictly controlled for about 30 years to protect the ecosystem, allowing nature to thrive undisturbed.
Spanning an impressive 30.6 hectares, the forest is about five times larger than the well-known Inje Wondae-ri colony. As you step into the forest, you can immediately sense the heavy aroma of phytoncides, distinctly different from the urban environment.
The greatest advantage of this place is its flat trails that meander along the gentle sounds of the valley, rather than steep hiking routes. The walking paths, ranging from 3.2 km to a maximum of 4.7 km, are a mix of soft dirt paths and well-maintained wooden decks, making it accessible for children and the elderly.
At the top of the walking trail, a viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the sprawling white trunks, making every moment captured with a camera a potential masterpiece. Standing in the thick shade of summer, you can admire the trees' enchanting transformation from cream to silver under the sunlight.
The cost-free electric shuttle bus adds to the appeal for weekend visitors. Both the entrance fee and parking at the village entrance are free, making it a perfect spot for an affordable healing trip.
Accessing the forest from the parking lot involves a 3.2 km dirt road, where general vehicle entry is restricted to protect the environment. Walking takes about an hour, but you can enjoy a comfortable ride on the eco-friendly electric shuttle bus, which takes about 15 minutes and is also free of charge.
The forest opens from 9 AM to 6 PM, with shuttle buses operating every 30 minutes from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. However, note that the shuttle does not run on Mondays, so if you plan to visit that day, be prepared for a two-hour round trip on foot.
For public transport, there are city buses departing from Yeongyang Intercity Bus Terminal, but the intervals can be long. Therefore, using a personal vehicle via the Dongcheongsong-Yeongyang IC is recommended. Since amenities like convenience stores may be limited within the forest, bringing light refreshments and comfortable walking shoes will enhance your experience.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224375331798
No comments yet.
