Mountain · Gangwon
Gyebangsan
계방산
Gyebangsan (1,579.1 m): South Korea’s fifth highest peak, an easy climb from Undu Pass to a grandstand view of the Baekdudaegan.
Place details
- Region
- Gangwon
- Type of place
- Mountain
- Locality in the source
- 평창군 · 홍천군
- Summit height
- 1,579.1 m summit altitude, Korea Forest Service guide p. 36
Locate the place
Search by the Korean name and locality, then check the public entrance with the managing authority.
About Gyebangsan
Gyebangsan, on the border of Pyeongchang and Hongcheon, is the highest peak in Odaesan National Park and the fifth highest mountain in South Korea. It tops the Hangang ridge that divides the South and North Han rivers.
Because the road over Undu Pass already climbs to 1,089 m, the summit is only 488 m above the trailhead, so beginners can reach a grandstand view of the Baekdudaegan. It is a favourite winter climb; allow at least twice the usual time in snow.
The name suggests a fragrant cassia tree, but old maps show Yeonbangsan; the present name first appears on colonial-era survey maps.
Through the seasons
- Spring
- Dogtooth violets, yews and royal azaleas
- Summer
- Cool forest
- Autumn
- Small maples colouring
- Winter
- Deep snow and frost flowers
Worth seeing
- Undu Pass 운두령A road pass at 1,089 m, the classic start.
- Yew grove 주목군락지Tall, straight yews in an ecosystem reserve.
Where the main trail starts
Undu Pass 운두령
A main route in the Forest Service guide begins here. Search the Korean name to plan your bus or taxi to the entrance.
Written from the Korea Forest Service guide 꼭 한번 가 볼 우리 100대 명산, p. 36.