Gwanggyosan is the closest mountain to Suwon, to fulfill your hiking ambitions. You can get buses from Suwon station to the base of Gwanggyosan mountain. The summit time from the base is around 3 hours, can be faster if you are an experienced hiker. The way to the mountain is also very picturesque, with meadows , streams and glimpses of huts. The top of the mountain offer breath taking views of the surrounding Yongin, Suwon cities. The elevation is around constant 20-35 degrees and makes for a good climb. There are some risky corners, jagged rocks but it is well worth the climb. Plenty of Koreans hikers climb every week, and if you wish to you can team up some random hikers always. The sure footedness of these Korean hikers amazes me, even at a elevation of 60 degrees they are able to climb easily without any external support. There are three hiking routes as per the official website and my friend and I took the longest hiking route and it truly tired us out!, dress light and always carry enough water to keep you hydrated throughout the way. In between the hikes, you may encounters tombs and sudden path leading to no where which makes the hike more exotic! If your lucky you will also run into into cream sellers, buy one and relax, watching the scenery. Spring time is the best and avoid rainy times at all costs as the path is very slippery in some places. After all your hardwork, you will be rewarded with a poster card picture perfect view of the Gwanggyosan reservoir. Time suddenly comes to a standstill. Savour the beautiful view and move ahead. An approximate walk of 20 mins will bring you back to the main road.
/ For more information read : Mt Gwanggyosan
Verdict
- Ease of transportation: 3/5
- Value for money: 4/5
- Recommended group size: 4 or more
Some pictures below:
Right on, I'm headed there this weekend. How long (in miles or kilometers) is the trail to the summit? You wouldn't happen to know if they allow mountain biking would you?
ReplyDeleteActually there are a couple of different routes, I think it varies from 5km - 10 km , seasoned trekkers take the long route. I am doubtful about mountain biking as I did not see anyone with a bike, there are jagged rough rocks which make it hard for biking. But you may still want to ask the tourist centre once.
ReplyDelete