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Daegwallyeong Plateau
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The Daegwallyeong Plateau is situated on the border of Pyeongchang and Gangneung in Gangwon Province, at an average elevation of 832 meters. This area serves as one of South Korea's most critical mountain passes, connecting the Yeongseo and Yeongdong regions across the Taebaek Mountains. The plateau is famous for its extreme weather conditions, particularly heavy snowfalls that often reach depths of 1 to 2 meters during winter, providing handy conditions for winter sports. The economic significance of the region is derived from livestock farming, notably sheep ranching and dairy production, as well as the country's first large-scale wind farm inaugurated in 2006. Culturally, the pass played a vital role in historical trade routes and is part of the route for the UNESCO-recognized Gangneung Danoje Festival. The plateau's clean air and distinctive alpine scenery make it a popular getaway, offering a cool sanctuary from the summer heat.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: hwaranbong · neunggyeongbong · Alpensia ski jump center
- Nearby: Sandaewol-ri (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -6 | -3 | 2 | 8 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 4 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 40 | 49 | 83 | 77 | 124 | 321 | 264 | 184 | 80 | 58 | 27 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Travelers can reach the high plateau via the Yeongdong Expressway, with many visitors driving from Seoul or taking a direct bus to nearby Pyeongchang or Gangneung.
Best season
Winter is iconic for heavy snowfall and winter sports, while late spring and autumn offer cool, refreshing breezes convenient for hiking and touring the local sheep farms.
Terrain & paths
The elevated landscape features rolling hills and expansive grassy meadows, with clearly marked and well-maintained paths situated around the popular wind and sheep farms.
What to bring
Visitors must bring warm layers and sturdy snow boots during the freezing winters, and comfortable walking shoes with adequate sun protection for the milder summer days.
Parking
Numerous dedicated parking areas are conveniently available near the main attractions and rest stops, though they frequently fill up very quickly during busy holiday weekends.
Safety
Winter driving strictly requires snow tires or chains due to sudden heavy blizzards, and all visitors should dress in thick layers to avoid hypothermia in the strong winter winds.
Time needed
A typical recreational visit lasts between three to five hours, providing ample time to explore the pastoral farms, enjoy the scenic vistas, and take beautiful and memorable photographs.
Geography
Facts
- The average elevation of the plateau is 832 meters above sea level.
- The Daegwallyeong Pass has a total length of approximately 13 kilometers.
- South Korea's first large-scale wind farm was established here in 2006.
- During winter, the plateau receives an average of 1 to 2 meters of snow.
- The pass is part of the historical route for the Gangneung Danoje Festival.
- The region served as a primary venue for the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Daegwallyeong Plateau (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the main attractions on Daegwallyeong Plateau?
It is best known for its sheep farms, wind farms with giant turbines, and the annual snow festival.
Can you feed sheep at the farms?
Yes, at the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm, visitors can feed sheep with hay, which is especially popular with children.
How is the weather there in summer?
Due to the high altitude, it is significantly cooler than the rest of Korea, making it a popular summer escape.
Are there hiking opportunities there?
Yes, there are beautiful walking trails across the green hills with panoramic views of the mountain range and the East Sea.
Is it worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely, the region gets a lot of snow and turns into a white wonderland, good for snow trekking.
Daegwallyeong Plateau: where is it located?
Daegwallyeong Plateau is located in South Korea.
Daegwallyeong Plateau: what is there to see?
Highlights include hwaranbong, neunggyeongbong, Alpensia ski jump center.
Daegwallyeong Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Daegwallyeong Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Daegwallyeong Plateau is situated on the border of Pyeongchang and Gangneung in Gangwon Province, at an average elevation of 832 meters.
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