Course Overview
The Jeongeup Naejangsan Autumn Foliage Drive covers approximately 22 km from Jeongeup IC to Naejangsan National Park entrance. The 3 km approach road with its tunnel of 700 maple trees is considered the most beautiful autumn drive in the country.
The walking trail to Naejangsa Temple leads to Uhwajeong Pond, where crimson maples reflected on the water create Naejangsan's most iconic photograph. The cable car offers a bird's-eye view of the maple sea across the ridgeline.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Jeongeup IC to Approach Road (approx. 12 km)
Leaving the expressway toward Naejangsan, the mountain scenery gradually closes in with autumn colors.
Section 2: Maple Tunnel (approx. 3 km)
The highlight of Naejangsan. Over 700 maple trees form a crimson arch tunnel on both sides of the road.
Section 3: Naejangsa Temple to Uhwajeong (approx. 7 km)
Walk to the temple to see maples reflected in Uhwajeong Pond. The cable car to the observatory reveals the full scale of foliage blanketing the ridges.
Driving Tips
- Peak foliage is late October to mid-November (varies with weather)
- Extreme traffic congestion on autumn weekends; strongly recommend weekday visits
- Cable car: 9,000 KRW round trip for adults
- Try Jeongeup's traditional ssanghwacha (herbal tonic tea)