Exploring the Baegisan Pine Forest Trail in Ham-an
- Original source
- blog.naver.com
Blog Reporter Jo Yoon-hee, 15th Term
Baegisan Pine Forest Trail in Ham-an
- Address: 747-9 Dongchon-ri, Gunbuk-myeon, Ham-an-gun, Gyeongnam (Gunbuk Station Parking Lot)
While searching for places to see the red spider lilies in Ham-an, I came across Baegisan on social media. Although I usually traveled to Ham-an with my parents, this time I visited alone. Would you like to join me on my first trip to the Baegisan Pine Forest Trail?
After parking at the Gunbuk Station parking lot, I asked a passerby for directions and followed their guidance. At the entrance of the forest trail, I encountered a signpost and a walking stick. I regretted not bringing a stick myself, especially since I rarely hike and my stamina is limited.
Nevertheless, I began my ascent on Baegisan, which stands at approximately 369 meters above sea level. I was surprised to learn that it typically takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach the summit. Thus, I decided to abandon the goal of reaching the top and instead just enjoy the forest path as far as I could go.
As I started on the trail, I noticed clusters of red spider lilies blooming beside the stairs, which filled me with anticipation that I might see more as I climbed.
However, I felt a bit disappointed when the scenery didn’t live up to my expectations. I recalled that flowers in other regions were also not in full bloom, so I decided to continue walking for a leisurely stroll.
Two beautifully blooming red spider lilies seemed to greet me warmly, as if trying to comfort my heart, prompting me to take a picture.
Walking alone on a trail I had never visited before might seem daunting, but fortunately, the path was not as rough as I had feared. I occasionally met other hikers, which made the experience less intimidating. The trail seemed manageable for those who are used to hiking.
Baegisan, adorned with tall pine trees, derives its name from the ancient Chinese figures Baeki and Sukje. According to legend, they were princes of the ancient state of Gojuk who chose to maintain their integrity after the fall of the Yin Dynasty.
In Ham-an, there is also a notable figure comparable to Baeki. During the Joseon Dynasty, when King Danjong was dethroned, teacher Jo Ryeo returned to his hometown of Gunbuk, maintaining loyalty to Danjong. He spent his later years on Baegisan, and his integrity was celebrated, leading to the naming of the mountain.
The spirit of Jo Ryeo flows through Baegisan, making it a special place for the residents of Ham-an. The mountain, located in Dongchon-ri, Gunbuk-myeon, stands at 369 meters. Although I couldn't gauge the height accurately, I decided to walk as far as I could.
The roots of the trees that protect the mountain protruded like veins, showcasing the vitality of nature. It felt as if nature had made space for humans, and I sat on the ground to gently brush the roots.
With signs placed every 100 meters, I didn’t have to worry about getting lost. Moreover, I saw a sign that read 'Baegisan Pine Forest Trail, where your fortune unfolds,' suggesting that walking among the pines while listening to the wind brings a sense of refreshment and ease.
The term 'fortune' here seems to imply a satisfaction with life rather than destiny, and there were benches available for resting, although I noticed some already wilted flowers nearby.
A passerby mentioned that to see more red spider lilies, I needed to go further up. Although I was already a bit tired, I felt it would be too disappointing to turn back without seeing them, so I decided to continue walking.
As I wondered how much further I needed to go, I was pleased to see a sign for the 119 rescue team. Recently, I had a reason to appreciate their service, so just seeing the number brought me comfort, and I took a photo of the sign.
While I couldn't pinpoint the exact location, I finally encountered the red spider lilies I had been hoping to see. I was initially disappointed that they weren’t fully bloomed, but their appearance brought me unexpected joy.
These perennial plants from the daffodil family bloom in clusters, often referred to as 'red spider lilies.' They are cherished for their vibrant appearance from September to October.
Despite their association with sadness, the flowers are loved by many artists, symbolizing 'unattainable love' and 'painful memories.' They are often seen as 'flowers of death' due to their bright red color and toxicity.
After encountering the cluster of red spider lilies, I decided it was better to turn back, realizing it would be too much to continue to the summit. A passerby noted that this year, despite planting many bulbs, the flowers had not bloomed as expected, possibly due to fallen pine branches.
With the hope of seeing a more abundant display of red spider lilies next year, I slowly made my way down the mountain. My time spent on Baegisan, surrounded by the spirit of Jo Ryeo and the vibrant red flowers, will surely draw me back in the future.
Would anyone like to join me for a walk on the Baegisan Pine Forest Trail when autumn deepens?
Source :https://blog.naver.com/arahaman/224432038675
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