Juwangsan National Park: Autumn Hike to Yongyeon Falls in 2026

Juwangsan Mountain is a renowned peak located in Cheongsong, Gyeongbuk, boasting breathtaking beauty throughout all four seasons. In autumn especially, it transforms into a popular destination where countless hikers come to admire the vibrant fall foliage. This year, during the holiday break, I embarked on a wonderful family hike to Yongyeon Falls in Juwangsan Mountain.

The path to Yongyeon Falls is quite gentle, making it feel more like a leisurely walk than a strenuous hike.

While we couldn't yet see the full spectrum of autumn colors, it felt truly wonderful to welcome the very beginning of fall. Spending this time hiking with my family made it an even more special and meaningful experience.

Most people walk from the parking lot to Daejeonsa Temple at the entrance of Juwangsan Mountain, but if it's not a public holiday, you can also drive.

It seemed like it wasn't impossible to drive all the way, as there are parking spaces nestled between the restaurants in front of the temple.

Juwangsan Mountain

Address: 169-7 Gongwon-gil, Juwangsan-myeon, Cheongsong-gun, Gyeongbuk

Phone: 054-870-5300

The Alluring Autumn Scenery of Juwangsan Mountain

As you embark on an autumn hike in Juwangsan Mountain, the first thing that captures your attention is the tranquil natural surroundings and the gradual shift in colors. Juwangsan Mountain is famously known for its spectacular autumn foliage when the season reaches its peak. However, on this particular early autumn hike, the fall colors were just beginning to emerge. The leaves were in the beautiful process of transforming from vibrant green to rich reds and yellows.

This is the view of Daejeonsa Temple, which served as the first entrance along our hiking trail in Juwangsan Mountain.

There were quite a few geological sites named within the Cheongsong UNESCO Global Geopark.

There are still so many incredible places to explore, including Giamdan'ae Cliff, Jubangcheon Peperite, Yeonhwagul Cave, Yongchu Gorge, Yongyeon Falls, Geupsudae Columnar Joints, Jeolgol Gorge, Jusanji Pond, and Noruyongchu Valley.

Here's the beautiful scenery of Daejeonsa Temple in Juwangsan Mountain at the start of autumn.

We also captured a memorable group photo with our family and relatives.

The Hike to Yongyeon Falls

Yongyeon Falls, our hiking destination, is one of Juwangsan Mountain's most iconic attractions and a truly unmissable spot during an autumn hike.

This is Adeulbawi (Son Rock) located at the entrance of Juwanggyegok Valley. Legend has it that if you throw a stone between your legs and it successfully lands on top of Adeulbawi, you will give birth to a son.

The path features gentle slopes with very few steep sections, making it a wonderful trail for families to walk together.

As I walked hand-in-hand with my son, who has grown so tall he's now taller than his mom, my face was beaming with smiles.

Guamgakja Inscription

This is the inscription carved onto the Guamgakja rock.

It is an inscription by Master Gu-am (龜巖) Lee Jeong (李楨, 1578~1644). The phrase '東皐先生世居之處 (Donggo Seonsaeng Segoji Cheo)' translates to 'the place where Master Donggo resided for generations' or 'the ancestral home of Master Donggo'.

Geupsudae Columnar Joints

We also got to admire the Gupsudae Columnar Joints, whose name, 'Gupsudae' (汲水), meaning 'drawing water,' is rooted in a fascinating legend. It's said that Kim Ju-won, having been pushed out of the royal succession and feeling his life threatened, fled to Juwangsan. He built a grand palace on the cliff of Gupsudae and drew water from the Jubangcheon Valley using a bucket for drinking.

Sirubong Peak

This is Sirubong Peak, which resembles both a traditional Korean steamer (tteok-siru) and a human face.

Yongchu Gorge

As we passed through Yongchu Gorge, a continuous panorama of breathtaking scenery unfolded before our eyes.

As you ascend the mountain trail, you'll encounter increasingly steep sections and rocky paths. If you're not confident in your physical stamina, it's best to take your time. Especially for family hikes, regulating your pace and ensuring a safe journey is crucial.

As you approach the waterfall, you'll hear the cool breeze and the sound of rushing water, allowing you to fully soak in the refreshing coolness of nature.

The cool water cascading from the waterfall flows serenely, and just watching it makes you feel like your stress is melting away.

A Meaningful Hike with Family

After reaching the waterfall, we made sure to snap another commemorative photo.

The most significant aspect of this hike was undoubtedly the time spent with my family. We enjoyed the trek at a relaxed pace, chatting along the way, and those moments of rest where we shared our thoughts and feelings were truly precious. Family hikes offer a wonderful opportunity to escape daily life, find healing in nature, and create invaluable memories.

Essentials for Your Autumn Hike in Juwangsan

Before you embark on your autumn foliage hike in Juwangsan, there are a few essential items you'll want to prepare. First, given the significant temperature difference between morning and evening, it's wise to bring warm clothing. A windbreaker or jacket will be useful during the hike, and sturdy hiking boots are a must to prevent slipping. Don't forget to pack water and snacks! While autumn weather is generally cool, having energy-boosting food will make your trek even more enjoyable.

Tips for Your Autumn Hike in Juwangsan

The peak season for autumn foliage in Juwangsan is typically from late October to early November, and visiting during this period will allow you to witness the most stunning colors. If you truly want to immerse yourself in the fall foliage, it's a great idea to plan your hike to coincide with this timing. Additionally, the path to Yongyeon Falls is quite long and includes some steep sections, so it's important to plan a hike that suits your physical condition. If you're visiting with family, be careful not to overexert yourselves, and remember to take breaks along the way to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace.

"Dad of Two" - Final Thoughts

Juwangsan is truly a spectacular destination where you can experience the essence of an autumn hike. Enjoying the trek in early autumn, just as the foliage began to turn, allowed us to embrace the changing season and its natural beauty. The hike with my family was particularly special, a time for creating precious memories, and it truly showed me what healing in nature feels like. I believe the hike to Juwangsan's Yongyeon Falls, with its stunning scenery, was the perfect setting for spending quality time with my family. I look forward to visiting again next autumn when the leaves are in full splendor and sharing another story.

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