Hwaaksan | Mountain Guide | K-Travel Mate

[Gyeonggi's Highest Peak, Hwaaksan] Hwaaksan is the highest peak in Gyeonggi Province, rising along the boundary between northeastern Gyeonggi and Gangwon Province. The mountain ridge extends southeast from Domachibong (937m) of the Hanbuk Jeongmaek range, passing Seokryongsan (1155m), then rising sharply to form a mountain group including Eungbong (1436.3m) and Chokdaebong (1125m), often called the 'Alps of Gyeonggi.' Considering not only the main ridge but also its branches as part of the Jeongmaek, it is the highest peak of the Hanbuk Jeongmaek. It has a substantial build with a bulging summit, presenting a majestic appearance. When frost forms on its sturdy shoulders, it evokes the atmosphere of a fortress mountain. From the entrance of Gwancheong-ri's Keungol valley, one of the southern ridges rises from the chest area, giving dynamic presence to the massive mountain body. Due to a military base at the summit, access is limited to the middle peak, but it still invites a swift ascent. On the southern side, the Orim Valley features Seungwon Waterfall and Oknyotang pool. On the western side, Jomurakgol valley has Ssangryong Waterfall, Bokhodeung Waterfall, and a waterfall called Wapok. These contribute to the valley's scenic beauty. The two streams joining at Mokdong form the Gapyeongcheon stream. Although often counted among the five great mountains of Gyeonggi, Hwaaksan is not truly one of them, as its summit is not rocky. The name Muak from Seoul should be included instead of Hwaak in that list.