Course Overview
Gangwon Nature Road Course 5, the 'Deep Mountain Drive,' stretches 189 km from Jeongseon through Taebaek to the Samcheok coast. Follow the deep valleys and gorges of the Baekdudaegan ridgeline for exciting mountain winding, experiencing the dramatic transition from mountains to sea.
Look down into the vertiginous gorge from Jeongseon Sogeumgang Observatory, rest at Jeongseon Hwaam Mineral Spring, encounter mining history at Taebaek Cheoram Coal Mining Village, then meet the sea at Samcheok Imwon Port and walk the junction of mountain and ocean at Deokbongsan Coastal Trail.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Jeongseon Arirang Market to Samtanaught Mine (40 km, approx. 47 min)
Sample local delicacies at Jeongseon Arirang Market before departing. Samtanaught Mine transforms a closed mine into an art space where you can view artworks while walking through underground tunnels.
Section 2: Samtanaught Mine to Taebaek Gumunso (40 km, approx. 42 min)
Cross into Taebaek past landscapes steeped in coal industry history. Gumunso is a natural limestone cave and geological landmark carved by water.
Section 3: Gumunso to Samcheok Ocean Rail Bike (76 km, approx. 95 min)
Descend from Taebaek to the Samcheok coast for a dramatic scenery shift from mountains to sea. The Ocean Rail Bike lets you ride over the sea.
Section 4: Ocean Rail Bike to Maengbang Beach (15 km, approx. 22 min)
Follow the Samcheok coast to finish at Maengbang Beach, relaxing on the wide sandy shore.
Driving Tips
- Allow at least 5 hours; 3 nights 4 days recommended with sightseeing
- Jeongseon gondre rice and buckwheat pancakes are local specialties
- Taebaek section is above 700m; use caution in winter
- Samtanaught Mine admission fee approximately 12,000 KRW
- Check fuel levels frequently on the long mountain road sections