Seondalsan (Yeongwol)

Seondalsan is a peak of the Baekdudaegan mountain range, with an elevation of 1,236m, spanning Yeongwol-gun in Gangwon-do, Bonghwa-gun and Yeongju-si in Gyeongsangbuk-do. It belongs to the Sobaek Mountains and is surrounded by Maebongsan, Eoraesan, and Bonghwangsan, offering elegant mountain scenery and beautiful landscapes. The name means 'a place where immortals played,' and valleys named Sinseongol, Chilryonggol, and Yongagol encircle the mountain. To the southwest lies Sobaek National Park, and at the southeastern foot is Ojeon Mineral Spring. The water system flowing down the slopes feeds into Okdongcheon, while streams originating from the southwestern slopes flow into Naeseongcheon. The mountain offers diverse scenery throughout the seasons. In spring, flowers such as hydrangeas, tiger lilies, and daylilies bloom; in summer, cool valley waters and lush forests provide refreshment; in autumn, the vibrant colors of autumn leaves and ginkgo trees paint the entire mountain; and in winter, snowy landscapes and ice waterfalls reveal hidden beauty. There are various hiking courses, with the most popular being a traverse course that ascends from Naeri Valley to the summit of Seondalsan and descends via Eoraesan and Sirubong. This course covers approximately 17km and takes about 7 hours, passing by Chilryongdonggol, the place of exile for King Danjong, and the Danjong Monument. From the summit, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Baekdudaegan ridgeline and surrounding mountains. Another course is an out-and-back route from Hoeamnyeong to the summit of Seondalsan. This course is about 10km and takes approximately 4 hours, following the trail from Hoeamnyeong to Seondalsan.