Discovering the Natural Beauty of Pigeon Falls
Pigeon Falls / Photo from online community
If you want to blow away the stress accumulated in the city and feel the ancient mysteries, it is advisable to visit one of the representative natural attractions in northern Gyeonggi Province. The majestic cliffs, formed by thousands of years of lava flow and erosion, are enough to elicit awe from visitors.
Notably, this exotic and grand landscape has served as the backdrop for numerous popular works, including the Netflix drama 'Kingdom,' 'Queen Seondeok,' and 'Chuno.' Located about an hour's drive from the metropolitan area, including Seoul, it is a favored destination for light day trips on weekends.
Admission and parking are both free, allowing for a cost-free exploration of this natural monument.
Pigeon Falls is designated as Natural Monument No. 537, recognized nationally for its value as a precious natural heritage. Open year-round from 9 AM to 6 PM, it offers the allure of visiting whenever you desire. Furthermore, there are no fees for admission or parking.
With no financial burden for visiting, it’s a perfect spot for family outings or couple dates. However, as it is designated as a natural protection area, activities such as swimming, fishing, drinking, or smoking are strictly prohibited, requiring mature travel etiquette.
The 15-meter-high columnar joint cliffs and the hidden stories of the white dove pocket cave.
The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 15 meters into a jade-colored pool, showcasing unique beauty throughout the four seasons. The charming name 'Pigeon Falls' comes from the past when white doves used to inhabit this limestone cave. Its unique pocket-like terrain also served as a safe hiding place for residents during the Korean War.
Starting from the visitor center and walking along the well-maintained wooden deck trail, you will encounter a magnificent gorge layered with vertical columnar joints and horizontal plate joints. In the summer, refreshing mist creates a dreamy atmosphere, while in the cold winter, giant icicles and ice walls form, offering different visual delights in each season.
It is recommended to visit in the morning hours for a safer viewing experience.
On weekends or holidays, crowds can make the area congested, so arriving during relatively quiet morning hours is advisable. Visiting early allows you to capture clearer and more beautiful photos with the sunlight filtering through the gorge. Strollers and wheelchairs can access the upper observation deck, but caution is required as the path leading down to the waterfall is via stairs.
The deck stairs leading to the viewing area below the waterfall can be steep, so wearing comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes is safer. Especially right after rain, the ground can be slippery, so it is important to hold onto the handrails and proceed slowly.
After enjoying the waterfall, it is efficient to combine your visit with the nearby Han River Y-shaped suspension bridge, which offers thrilling views of the gorge below. The site is popular among thrill-seekers. Other excellent spots include the scenic Munguri Gorge and the designated scenic site No. 93, Hajeokyeon.
For camping enthusiasts, consider reserving a camping site within walking distance, which has a total of 79 sites, for a relaxed one-night, two-day itinerary. This upcoming weekend, enjoy the healing power of nature with your loved ones amidst the green geological wonders and refreshing breezes.
Pigeon Falls / Photo from online community
Source :https://blog.naver.com/tour_toctoc/224331368980
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