Natural attractions

청량산도립공원

4.5 · 254 reviews
Rugged and contemplative
청량산도립공원, 255 Cheongnyang-ro, Myeongho-myeon, Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

The park features the Cheongnyangsan Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian sky bridge suspended 70 meters above the ground connecting two sheer cliffs.

2

Renowned Joseon-dynasty Neo-Confucian scholar Toegye Yi Hwang studied and taught at Cheongnyangsan, composing numerous poems about its twelve major peaks.

3

Cheongnyangsa Temple, located deep within the mountain's natural bowl, houses a rare wooden seated Vairocana Buddha statue dating back to the Goryeo dynasty.

4

The mountain is composed almost entirely of massive white granite formations, creating sheer vertical cliffs and distinctive rock pillars.

5

The park's trail system includes the historic Chusa-ro path, named after historical figures who sought seclusion and scholarly reflection in the area.

Overview

Cheongnyangsan Provincial Park is a rugged mountain destination in Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, known for its dramatic granite peaks and deep valley gorges. Designated as a provincial park, it features steep hiking trails that connect historical hermitages and ancient Buddhist temples. A major highlight is the Cheongnyangsan Suspension Bridge, also known as Haneuldari, which spans a deep chasm between two towering cliffs at high altitude. The Nakdonggang River flows past the park boundaries, carving through the mountainous terrain of northern Gyeongsangbuk-do. The area contains historical sites linked to famous Korean scholars and poets, including Toegye Yi Hwang, who wrote extensively about the mountain's beauty. Vegetation shifts dramatically across the seasons, offering dense green foliage in summer and vibrant red and orange maple leaves during autumn. The park's trail network includes challenging ridges and stepped pathways that demand moderate physical endurance. Visitors access the upper elevations via well-maintained stone stairs and metal walkways bolted directly into the rock faces.

Photo spot

The midpoint of the Cheongnyangsan Suspension Bridge, framing the deep valley gorge and the surrounding granite peaks.

Insider tips

Wear high-traction hiking boots, as the stone stairs and granite surfaces can be slippery after rain.

Bring your own drinking water and snacks, as facilities along the upper mountain ridges are extremely limited.

Check weather conditions before starting, as high mountain winds can cause temporary access restrictions on the suspension bridge.

What to avoid

Attempting the steep peak trails without proper footwear or underestimating the physical exertion required for the vertical stone stairs.

Etiquette

Stick to designated hiking trails to protect local flora and historical rock formations. Carry all trash back down with you.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-6 hours
Best time to visit
Mid to late October for peak autumn foliage when the maple trees turn bright red and gold.
Address
청량산도립공원, 255 Cheongnyang-ro, Myeongho-myeon, Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
36.789, 128.895
Get directions
Details
Trail NetworkSteep granite ridges, stone staircases, and high suspension bridge links
Key HeritageCheongnyangsa Temple and historical scholar hermitages

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-6 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid to late October for peak autumn foliage when the maple trees turn bright red and gold..

The midpoint of the Cheongnyangsan Suspension Bridge, framing the deep valley gorge and the surrounding granite peaks.

Close by you'll find Cheongnyangsan Cheongnyangsa, Haneuldari Bridge, Cheongnyangsan Museum.

South Korea

About Bonghwa-gun