Taehwasan 1,028m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected for its scenic beauty, historical remnants such as Taehwasanseong Fortress (an earthen fortification built during the Goguryeo period), and natural attractions like Gossidonggul Cave (Natural Monument No. 219).

About Taehwasan

Straddling the boundary between Gangwon-do and Chungcheongbuk-do, Taehwasan is a grand and beautiful mountain befitting its name. Its cozy silver grass field makes it well-suited for autumn hiking. Overshadowed by nearby Chiaksan in Wonju, Sobaeksan in Danyang, and Woraksan National Park, it remains relatively quiet, preserving its untouched, pristine natural beauty. Adding to the appeal, the Namhangang River winds around its base, and the mountain embraces Gossidonggul Cave, formed over 400 million years ago.

The gentle ridge trails change throughout the four seasons, offering scenic vistas and making it an excellent destination for family hikes. The three main trailheads are Yeongchun, Palgoe-ri, and Gossidonggul Cave; because the trail from Gossidonggul Cave is steep, hikers typically choose Yeongchun or Palgoe-ri.

Recorded as Daehwasan in the Sinjeung Dongguk Yeoji Seungnam (New Augmented Survey of the Geography of Korea), Taehwasan is situated south of Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do. At the end of the ridge stretching northwest from the peak, the Namhangang River winds through the valley, and the historic site of Taehwasanseong Fortress, which overlooks Yeongwol-eup, stands along the route to the summit.

At Taehwasanseong Fortress, an earthen fortification built during the Goguryeo period, ancient roof tile fragments are still occasionally discovered. From the summit of Taehwasan, Sobaeksan and the ridges of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range stretch out to the south in the distance.

Public transport

The transit hub is Yeongwol. > Yeongwol → Yeongchun: 6 times daily. Yeongwol → Heungwol, Palgoe-ri: 4 times daily.