Hwaaksan 1,468m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected as the highest peak in Gyeonggi-do for its outstanding ridge scenery spanning approximately 10 km through Aegibong Peak to Sudeoksan, and exceptional visibility extending nearly 100 km. It is home to Jipdarigol Natural Recreation Forest, and from near the summit, most mountains across the central-western region can be viewed.

About Hwaaksan

As the highest peak in Gyeonggi-do, Hwaaksan rises along the border between northeastern Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do. Branching southeast from Domachibong Peak (937 m) on the Hanbukjeongmaek ridge, the mountain chain surges past Seongnyongsan (1,155 m) and continues to Eungbong Peak (1,436.3 m) and Chokdaebong Peak (1,125 m), forming a mountain massif often referred to as the 'Alps of Gyeonggi.' If side ridges are counted, it stands as the highest peak of the Hanbukjeongmaek.

It features a massive body with a bulging summit, presenting a grand presence. When rime frost settles across its broad shoulders, it evokes the aura of a sacred mountain. Viewed from the entrance of Keungol in Gwancheong-ri, a spur of the south ridge rises sharply, lending dynamic vigor to this hefty earth mountain. It tempts hikers to charge straight to the top, momentarily forgetting that access is restricted to Jungbong Peak due to a military base at the summit.

To the south, Orimgyegok Valley features Seungwon Falls and Ongnyeotang Pool. To the west, Jomurakgol Valley holds Ssangnyong Falls, Bokhodeung Falls, and a cascading fall. Together, they provide scenic valley landscapes. Joining at Mokdong, the two streams form Gapyeongcheon Stream. While often grouped among the Five Great Rocky Mountains (Gyeonggi 5-Ak), its summit is actually not rocky; Muaksan in Seoul is sometimes considered a more fitting member of the list.

Hwaaksan (1,468 m), the foremost among Gyeonggi's peaks, stands prominently at the junction dividing Gangwon-do and Gyeonggi-do. It is the highest peak in Gyeonggi-do. Flanked by Maebong Peak to the east and Jungbong Peak to the west, the three are known as Samhyeongjebong (Three Brothers Peaks). The waters originating here form Hwaakcheon Stream, which serves as the main tributary to Gapyeongcheon Stream before flowing into the Bukhangang River.

Because the summit area is a military zone and off-limits to civilians, hikers must settle for viewing it from afar. Climbing Jungbong Peak, located 1 km southwest of the summit, currently substitutes for reaching the actual summit of Hwaaksan. Ascending Hwaaksan's main ridge offers panoramic views over Gapyeong and Chuncheon, enriching the hiking experience.

Public transport

The transit hub is Gapyeong. Gyeongchun Line trains run to Gapyeong at 1-hour intervals.

> Gapyeong → Hwaak-ri: 4 times daily. Gapyeong → Yongsu-dong at Jomurakgol entrance: 5 times daily.