Elevation Profile — Huibangsa Temple Course (Huibang Visitor Center (Information Center) → Yeonhwabong Peak)
Course Features
- Huibangpokpo Falls (28m high) — Gyeongbuk's largest inland waterfall, scenic year-round
- Thousand-year-old temple exploration course passing through Huibangsa Temple, founded in 643 during the Silla Dynasty
- Gentle ridge after Kkaldakgogae Pass — 360-degree panoramic view from Yeonhwabong Peak
- Sobaeksan Astronomical Observatory (near Yeonhwabong Peak) visit possible — operated by Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute
- Kkaldakgogae Pass section: steep incline — caution for beginners (approx. 400m)
- Huibang Information Center→Yeonhwabong Peak One-way 3.7km / Round-trip 7.4km
Start from the parking lot in front of the Huibang Information Center. Check the course at the information center before entering the mountain. Pay the entrance fee for Sobaeksan National Park, Huibangsa Temple area (Adults 1,600 won).
From Huibang Information Center, walk approximately 1km along the valley path to reach Huibangpokpo Waterfall (28m high). It is the largest waterfall in inland Gyeongsangbuk-do, displaying different appearances throughout the four seasons. Climb the wooden deck stairs next to the waterfall to arrive at Huibangsa Temple (founded in 643, the 12th year of Queen Seondeok of Silla).
From Huibangsa Temple to Kkaldakgogae Pass is the steepest section of this course. As its name suggests, derived from the gasping sound 'kkaldak kkaldak' as one runs out of breath, a steep incline continues. The wooden deck stairs are well-maintained, but this section is very physically demanding.
Beyond Kkaldakgogae Pass, the gentle and wide ridge characteristic of Sobaeksan National Park unfolds. From the summit of Yeonhwabong Peak (1,394m) on a clear day, enjoy panoramic views stretching to Taebaeksan National Park, Woraksan National Park, and Songnisan National Park. The Sobaeksan National Park Observatory is located right next to it.
Descend to the starting point via the path you ascended: Kkaldakgogae Pass → Huibangsa Temple → Huibangpokpo Falls → Huibang Visitor Center. During the descent, you can rest briefly at Huibangpokpo Falls and enjoy the sound of the water.
Essential Gear
- Hiking boots or athletic shoes (waterproofing recommended)
- Windproof jacket
- Trekking poles (for descending Kkaldakgogae Pass)
- Winter: Crampons Required
Azalea Season
- Azalea peak in late May ~ early June
- Yeonhwabong Peak ~ Je1-Yeonhwabong Peak Azalea Tunnel
- Birobong Ridge Pink Carpet
- Most crowded during azalea season → early departure
Winter Snowflakes and Hoarfrost
- Yeonhwabong rime ice peaks in January-February
- Spectacular frozen Huibangpokpo Falls (Dec-Feb)
- Kkaldakgogae Pass: crampon-wearing section
- Ridge: beware of strong winds, complete cold weather gear required
Transportation Information
- Yeongju Station → Huibangsa Temple Bus Service
- Huibang Information Center Parking is Paid
- Danyang IC → Huibangsa Temple 30 min
- Sobaeksan National Park 054-638-6196
Sobaeksan National Park Observatory
- Near Yeonhwabong Peak Summit (5-minute walk)
- Operated by Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute
- Night Star Gazing Program (Reservation)
- Connects to Seolyeonhwa Astronomical Observatory tour course
Useful Information
- Entry hours: Summer season 04:00~14:00
- Sobaeksan National Park 054-638-6196
- Blackyak 100 Famous Mountains (Birobong Peak)
- Possible to link with Juknyeong Course for an expedition