Lake Uiam
Lake Uiam (의암호; map) is a man-made reservoir near downtown Chuncheon City, Gangwon State. Created in 1967 with the construction of Uiam Dam, which powered South Korea’s modernization efforts in the mid-20th century. The dam not only supplies electricity but also regulates water flow to prevent flooding in the region.
Spanning an area of 15 square kilometers, the lake stretches 8 kilometers in length and 5 kilometers in width, nestled in a mountainous landscape below Samak Mountain (삼악산; map; Samaksan).
Fed by the North Han River, Lake Uiam sits 72 meters above sea level and provides a calm and consistent water source throughout the year.
Three notable islands—Sangjungdo (map), Hajungdo (map), and Bungeo (map)—dot the lake.
- Sangjung Island has undergone extensive reforestation and provides a peaceful green space for wildlife.
- Hajung Island, with its history of agricultural use, features remnants of traditional farming practices, offering a glimpse into the region’s past.
- Bungeo Island, though smaller, helps sustain local biodiversity.
Cycling Around the Lake
Lake Uiam is encircled by a 30-kilometer bike path that connects key landmarks in Chuncheon, making it a popular route for both local and visiting cyclists. The path is well-paved and designed to accommodate riders of all skill levels, with mostly flat terrain allowing for an easy and enjoyable experience.
The path meanders through a mix of urban areas and natural settings. Riders can pedal alongside quiet sections of the North Han River, pass through wooded areas where tree canopies provide shade, and traverse Chuncheon’s lakeside neighborhoods. Rest stops equipped with benches and picnic tables are strategically placed along the route, offering opportunities to take in the scenery or enjoy a packed lunch.
Highlights along the way include Dongducheon Park (map), with its sculptures and flower gardens, and the Chuncheon Mulle-gil (Water Road; map), a hub for kayaking and other water activities. For history enthusiasts, nearby cultural landmarks such as Chuncheon’s Dakgalbi Street or the Chuncheon Puppet Theater add another layer of interest.
Bike rental shops are conveniently located near major access points, such as Uiam Dam and Gongjicheon Park. They provide a range of options, from single-speed cruisers to geared bikes for longer rides. Air pump stations and repair kiosks are scattered along the route.
Ecology and Wildlife
Migratory birds, such as herons, cormorants, and various species of ducks, frequent Lake Uiam throughout the year, drawn by its abundant fish population. The lake’s islands serve as crucial nesting and resting sites, particularly during migration seasons in the spring and fall. Visitors may spot great egrets wading in the shallows or mallards paddling through the calm waters.
Native fish species, amphibians, and aquatic plants also inhabit the lake. Efforts to maintain their habitats have been ongoing, with reforestation projects on the islands aiming to curb erosion. Additionally, local authorities enforce strict guidelines to manage tourism and recreational activities.
For those interested in observing Lake Uiam’s wildlife, visit in early mornings or late afternoons to see birds in action. Several viewing points along the bike path and near the islands offer spots to view wildlife without disturbing their natural behaviors.
History and Cultural
Archaeological finds around Lake Uiam, including tools and pottery from the Bronze and Iron Ages, have been uncovered on the islands, indicating that they were inhabited or used by early settlers.
Hajung Island, the largest island once connected to Sangjung Island. But the two islands were separated during canal construction aimed at improving water navigation. This transformation altered the landscape and symbolized Chuncheon’s evolution from a remote mountainous region to a thriving lakeside city.
Uiam Lake Highlights
Let’s take a look at some of the highlights that surround Uiam Lake.
Soyang River Dam
The Soyang River Dam (소양강댐; map) is a massive multipurpose dam located at the top of Uiam Lake. Completed in 1973, it is the largest rock-fill dam in Korea, standing at 123 meters tall and stretching 530 meters across.
The dam helps control flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and secures water for the region. Its construction also created Soyangho Lake, the largest man-made reservoir in Korea.
Soyangho Lake is surrounded by lush mountains and provides opportunities for sightseeing and leisure activities. Tour boats operating on the lake offer scenic cruises to admire the surrounding landscape. The reservoir is a popular fishing destination, known for its diverse aquatic life.
The dam features a visitor center where you can learn about its history and engineering. Observation decks provide views of the dam, the lake, and the downstream areas.
Chuncheon Mulle-gil
Chuncheon Mullegil (춘천 물레길; map), also known as “Uiam Water Road,” is a well-known water trail that provides paddlers with a chance to navigate the lake’s narrow inlets and channels, bringing them close to the islands and their greenery.
The highlight of the water trail is the route between Hajung Island and the smaller, uninhabited islets nearby. Paddlers are treated to views of dense forests and glimpses of wildlife, such as kingfishers darting between the trees or turtles basking on rocks near shore.
Guided canoe tours are available for beginners and families, complete with safety instructions and equipment rentals. For a more independent experience, visitors can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the lake at their own pace. In warmer months, organized events like paddle races or eco-tours draw crowds.
Samaksan Mountain Cable Car
The Samaksan Mountain Cable Car (삼악산 케이블카; map) is Korea’s longest cable car, spanning 3.61 kilometers. It connects Samcheon Neighborhood (삼천동; map) on the southwest corner of downtown Chuncheon to an upper station on Samak Mountain, flying over Uiam Lake.
Completed on October 8, 2021, the cable car features 66 cabins, including 20 with transparent floors for enhanced viewing. Each cabin accommodates up to eight passengers, with a transport capacity of 1,200 people per hour. The journey lasts approximately 13 minutes, offering panoramic views of Uiamho Lake, Chuncheon city, and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
At the upper station, visitors can enjoy amenities such as a café with scenic views. A gently sloped boardwalk leads to the mountain’s summit, featuring a Skywalk Observatory that offers breathtaking vistas of the region. This setup provides easy access for families, older travelers, and those with mobility challenges, allowing them to experience the natural beauty of Samaksan without a strenuous hike.
The lower station near downtown Chuncheon offers various facilities, including restaurants, convenience stores, cafés, and souvenir shops, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
