Discover the Hidden Gem of Palgong Mountain National Park
If you're looking to escape the suffocating urban jungle and find pure green solace in nature, Palgong Mountain National Park's Gatbawi should be on your radar. The breathtaking landscape, filled with hundreds of thousands of silver trees reaching towards the sky, has recently gained popularity through social media.
Every time the wind rustles through the leaves, the crisp air that brushes your nose is enough to blow away the accumulated stress. The gentle slopes make it an ideal summer getaway for families, offering a comfortable walking path.
Located in Wacheon-myeon, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongbuk, the hidden gem of Gatbawi sits at the foot of Gwanbong, 850 meters above sea level. Designated as a provincial park in 1980, it has been elevated to a national park in 2023 after 40 years of efforts to protect the ecosystem and enhance visitor experiences.
The park covers an impressive area of 30.6 hectares, making it significantly larger than typical forested areas. As you step into the woods, the rich scent of phytoncides from ancient trees envelops you, a stark contrast to the city.
One of the park's greatest advantages is the presence of a gentle trail that runs alongside a serene valley, allowing visitors to walk while enjoying the soothing sounds of nature. The hiking paths range from 3.2 km to 4.7 km, featuring a mix of soft dirt paths and well-maintained wooden decks, making it accessible for children and the elderly.
At the viewpoint located at the top of the trail, you can capture stunning panoramic views of the sprawling white-barked trees, ensuring every moment is picture-perfect. Standing in the cool shade during the summer, you can witness the trees' magical transformation between cream and silver hues as the sunlight shifts.
With no entrance fees and free parking, the park is an affordable destination for a healing getaway. A 3.2 km access road to the forest entrance restricts vehicle entry for environmental protection, taking about an hour to walk. However, an eco-friendly electric shuttle bus operated by the local government offers a convenient 15-minute ride for free.
The park opens from 9 AM to 6 PM, with shuttle buses running every 30 minutes from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. Note that the shuttle does not operate on Mondays, so plan for an additional two hours of walking if you visit on that day.
While public transportation is available from the intercity bus terminal, it may be less frequent, so driving via the highway is recommended. Since amenities like shops are limited within the park, bringing light snacks and comfortable walking shoes will ensure a perfect day out.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224375265729
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