Eungbongsan hike info

Eungbongsan rises to 999.7 m on the border between Uljin in Gyeongbuk and Samcheok in Gangwon. The height is modest; the fame is in the valleys. On the Uljin side the Deokgu valley runs down to a hot-spring village, and on the Samcheok side the Deokpung valley and Yongso-gol thread jade-green water between rock walls. The shape of the peak is said to resemble a hawk, hence an old name, Maebong.

There are two ways in. From Deokgu Onsen in Uljin you can stroll the gentle 4 km valley path to the Wontang spring, or take a ridge route to the summit and back, about 12 km. Soaking in the hot spring afterwards is the big plus of this side. From Deokpung village in Samcheok, a walkway of iron steps and railings leads to the second Yongso pool; the upper valley beyond needs repeated water crossings and is for experienced hikers.

Late-spring green and October colour are the best seasons. The valleys are cool in midsummer but can rise fast after rain. Expect the summit area to run 5-10 C colder than the base.

From Seoul (BUS)

From Busan, Daegu and elsewhere (BUS)

To the trailhead (LOC)