[2024 Pocheon-si Attraction] Travel Guide for Hantangang Geopark (Updated Oct)
City Parks
Address:
411 Daehoesan-ri, Yeongbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Hantan River Geopark
Hantan River Geopark is a geological park centered around the Hantan River, which crosses Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do. It is listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This area is highly valued for its geological significance and ecological importance, featuring unique landscapes formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, harmonized with beautiful natural scenery.
**Main Attractions and Features:**
1. **Geological Sites**: The park boasts various geological landscapes such as columnar joints, canyons, and basalt plateaus. Notably, the volcanic rock formations like columnar joints are significant geological heritage sites, creating a spectacular view when combined with the clear waters of the Hantan River.
2. **Bridges and Observatories**: The park has several bridges and observatories offering stunning views. The recently opened Hantan River Sky Bridge (Hantan River Bridge) is a thrilling suspension bridge 50 meters high and 200 meters long, providing a unique experience of walking above the river.
3. **Ecological Experiences**: The geopark offers various ecological experience programs beyond just sightseeing. Activities include geological education programs for families, ecological tours, and trekking courses, allowing visitors to enjoy both nature and geology.
4. **Trekking and Walking Trails**: The park features several trekking and walking trails where visitors can enjoy leisurely time in nature. The Hantan River Trail, in particular, follows the river, offering close-up views of the river's stunning scenery.
5. **Culture and History**: Hantan River Geopark is not only about geology but also a place to explore the region's history and culture. Visitors can discover local traditions and stories by exploring nearby cultural heritage sites and villages.
**Overall Evaluation**: Hantan River Geopark is a special place where you can appreciate both beautiful nature and unique geological landscapes. It is recommended for family outings, trips with friends, and anyone seeking healing in nature. The park offers different charms in each season, making it a great place to visit anytime, and it is the perfect spot to experience the wonders of nature and geology.
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Hantan River Geopark's Y-shaped Bridge
The Hantan River Geopark's Y-shaped Bridge is a unique pedestrian bridge located at Bidulginang Falls in Yeongbuk-myeon, Pocheon City. This bridge is designed to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hantan River, extending in a Y-shape to offer various angles for viewing the natural landscape.
**Features of the Y-shaped Bridge:**
1. **Structure and Design**: The bridge extends in three directions from the center in a Y-shape, with each end protruding over the gorge, giving the impression of floating in the air. The floor is partially made of transparent reinforced glass, allowing visitors to look directly down at the flowing river and cliffs below, providing a thrilling experience.
2. **View**: From the bridge, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the beautiful scenery of the Hantan River, including Bidulginang Falls. The changing seasons offer different charms, allowing visitors to capture the diverse beauty of the Hantan River throughout the year.
3. **Experience Elements**: The Y-shaped Bridge is not just a pedestrian bridge but part of a trail that allows visitors to experience the geological features and ecosystem of the Hantan River up close. As they cross the bridge, visitors can explore the natural geological structures and ecosystem.
4. **Safety**: The bridge undergoes thorough safety inspections and management, with all parts, including the railings and glass floor, designed for safety, making it suitable for family visits.
The Hantan River Y-shaped Bridge is a unique architectural structure that harmonizes with nature, becoming a landmark of the Hantan River Geopark. It is also famous as a photo spot, offering visitors a special experience.
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Hantan River Geopark
Hantan River Geopark offers several observation decks where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hantan River and its surroundings at a glance. The main observation decks are as follows:
1. **Bidulginang Falls Observation Deck**: This deck offers a magnificent view of Bidulginang Falls and the surrounding scenery. It is easily accessible via stairs, making it a popular spot for many visitors.
2. **Goseokjeong Observation Deck**: Goseokjeong is a famous spot where you can admire the cliffs and columnar joints formed along the Hantan River. From the observation deck, you can view the meandering river and the majestic cliffs. There is also an old pavilion near Goseokjeong, adding a historical atmosphere.
3. **Meonguri Gorge Observation Deck**: From here, you can look down into the deep and narrow Meonguri Gorge. The gorge, with its deeply carved valley and surrounding basalt cliffs, offers an impressive view of nature's power.
4. **Gyodong Gamaso Observation Deck**: Gyodong Gamaso is a deep pool formed by the flowing waters of the Hantan River. From the observation deck, you can enjoy the clear blue water and the stunning gorge scenery.
Each observation deck provides unique geological features and natural landscapes, offering visitors a variety of sights to see. The views of Hantan River Geopark from these decks present different charms each season, especially during the autumn foliage or the snow-covered winter landscape.