Course Overview
The Goesan Sanmaki Old Road to Ssanggok Valley Drive covers approximately 40 km from the Sanmaki Old Road parking area at Goesan Lake to Ssanggok Valley in Chilseong-myeon. Sanmaki Old Road, selected as one of Korea's Top 100 Tourist Attractions, is a 4 km lakeside trail with suspension bridges and pine forests.
Ssanggok Valley (Nine Bends) stretches 10.5 km with nine scenic wonders including Horongso Pool, Sogeumgang (Little Diamond Mountains), Ssanggok Falls, and Seonnyeotang (Fairy Pool). The drive along emerald lake waters and dramatic rock formations is rejuvenating in itself.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Sanmaki Old Road (approx. 10 km)
Park at the Goesan Lake lot and walk the Sanmaki Old Road. The suspension bridge view of Goesan Lake is breathtaking. A cruise boat across the lake is also recommended.
Section 2: Goesan Lake to Yeonpung (approx. 15 km)
Leaving the lake toward Yeonpung-myeon, the mountains deepen and winding roads begin. Historical sites like Yeonpung Hyanggyo and Wonpung-ri rock-carved Buddha await along the way.
Section 3: Yeonpung to Ssanggok Valley (approx. 15 km)
Entering Ssanggok Valley, the nine scenic wonders of Horongso, Sogeumgang, and Ssanggok Falls appear one after another. Stop at any pool to dip your feet in the crystal-clear water.
Driving Tips
- Sanmaki Old Road has a large free parking lot
- The old road is 4 km one-way, approximately 2 hours round trip on foot
- Ssanggok Valley is very popular in summer; parking can be difficult in peak season
- Goesan Lake cruise hours: 09:00-17:00 (seasonal variations)
- The Yeonpung-Ssanggok section has many curves; drive slowly