Yongdae Natural Recreation Forest

Located near the summit of Jinburyeong Pass on the northern side of the Taebaek Mountains, which form the backbone of the Korean Peninsula, this forest is situated along National Route 46, which connects Seoraksan National Park and the East Sea. As a recreation forest at an elevation of 600m, the northernmost point near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), it is surrounded by dense forests and features a deep mountain valley where the stream water remains so cold even in midsummer that one cannot keep their feet submerged for more than 10 minutes. The forest is mostly composed of artificial deciduous forests and natural forests of oak, linden, birch, and pine, which harmonize together, and the variety of tree species offers beautiful natural scenery in every season, including lush greenery, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes.

Clear, clean water flows from the large and small valleys formed by Maebongsan (1,271m) and Chiljeolbong (1,172m) through the center of the recreation forest, providing a habitat for the natural monument species, the cherry salmon, and various wildlife. The recreation forest, Yeonhwadong, has a topography resembling a 'floating lotus flower shape,' as if a lotus is floating on water.