The first week of January is often a time for new beginnings, fresh resolutions, and, for many, the pursuit of adventure. For me, it was no different. On a regular afternoon, as I scrolled through my Facebook timeline, a striking headline from The Korea Times caught my eye. The article featured a breathtaking image of an icy cliff, accompanied by a story about the frozen valley walls of Juwangsan in Cheongsong County. Intrigued by the idea of witnessing such natural beauty, I decided to make this icy wonderland my first trip destination of 2020. Little did I know, this spontaneous decision would lead to one of the most memorable winter experiences of my life.
Cheongsong County: A Hidden Gem in South Korea
Cheongsong-gun, located in North Gyeongsang Province, is a region renowned for its lush apple orchards. If you visit during November, apple picking is a must-do activity. However, in January, the orchards are bare, replaced by crates of luscious red apples sold along the roadside—a reminder of the region’s agricultural charm. But what truly sets Cheongsong apart in winter is its natural landmark, Mount Juwang, and the stunning Cheongsong Eoreumgol, or Ice Valley.
Situated approximately 290 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the journey to Cheongsong Ice Valley took nearly four hours by car. As we approached the foot of Mount Juwang, the anticipation grew. To our delight, our visit coincided with the 2020 UIAA Ice Climbing World Cup, an international event held at the valley. The atmosphere was electric, with signs guiding us to the main stage of the competition.
The Magic of Cheongsong Ice Valley
As we arrived at the valley, we were greeted by a surreal sight: multiple alleys of frozen waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. The main stage of the ice climbing competition was set against one of these icy walls, creating a dramatic backdrop for the athletes’ daring feats. Behind the scene stood Wonja Rock, a towering cliff that transforms into a 62-meter-high waterfall during the summer. In winter, however, the waterfall freezes into a magnificent icy sculpture, a testament to the power and beauty of the season.
The sheer scale of the frozen waterfalls was awe-inspiring. It was as if nature had pressed pause, capturing the waterfall’s movement in a single, crystalline moment. The sight was a reminder of winter’s ability to transform even the most dynamic forces of nature into something still and serene.
Tips for Visiting Cheongsong Ice Valley
Our visit to Cheongsong Ice Valley was nothing short of magical, but it came with a few lessons learned. Here are some tips for anyone planning a trip:
Dress Warmly: The temperature in the valley drops significantly, especially after sunset. Make sure to bundle up in layers, including thermal wear, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.
Plan Your Time Wisely: We arrived late in the afternoon, which left us with limited time to explore the surrounding valleys. If you want to fully experience the area, aim to arrive by midday and leave before 5 p.m., especially if you’re not accustomed to driving in winter conditions.
Check for Events: Our trip was serendipitously timed with the Ice Climbing World Cup, which added an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Keep an eye out for local events that might coincide with your visit.
Transportation Tips: If you’re relying on public transport, here’s how to get there:
- From Seoul: Take the Suseo High Speed Rail (SRT) to Dongdaegu Station, then transfer to a suburb bus to Andeok Bus Stop. From there, a cab will take you to the valley.
- From Busan: Take the KTX train to Dongdaegu Station, then follow a similar route via bus and cab.
A Winter Escape to Remember
As we prepared to leave the valley, the early winter sunset painted the sky in hues of pink and orange. By 6 p.m., the stars were already twinkling above, a reminder of how quickly darkness falls in winter. Despite the chill, the experience left us with a warm sense of wonder and appreciation for nature’s artistry.
Cheongsong Ice Valley is more than just a destination; it’s a celebration of winter’s transformative power. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a unique winter escape, this icy paradise is sure to leave you spellbound. So, pack your warmest clothes, plan your journey, and get ready to witness one of South Korea’s most enchanting winter wonders.
Quick Info about Cheongsong Ice Valley
Address: 경북 청송군 주왕산면 팔각산로 228
Naver Map: Cheongsong Eoreumgol Valley
Website: http://csgeop.cs.go.kr/Access Map
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