Course Overview
Hongcheon is the largest county in South Korea, with stunning valleys created by the Hongcheon River and Naechon Stream hidden throughout. This approximately 32 km course from Hongcheon-eup to Gonjaksan Sutasa Temple offers riverside scenery and valley refreshment.
Sutasa is an ancient temple from the Silla Dynasty, with a 5 km ecological forest trail along the valley. It is popular as a summer water play destination and an autumn foliage spot.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Hongcheon-eup to Dong-myeon (approx. 12 km)
Drive east along the Hongcheon River. Wide gravel beds and clear water provide a refreshing backdrop.
Section 2: Dong-myeon to Sutasa Entrance (approx. 12 km)
Enter the foothills of Gonjaksan as the roadside scenery transforms into dense forest.
Section 3: Sutasa Entrance to Sutasa (approx. 8 km)
The final section climbing along Sutasa Valley. Valley water sounds fill the car.
Driving Tips
- Sutasa Ecological Forest Trail: approximately 5 km, 2 hours round trip
- Free summer water play area (July-August)
- Hongcheon Korean beef is famous; combine with a meal
- Less weekend traffic congestion makes for a pleasant drive