Geum River Arboretum & Forest
The Geum River Arboretum & Forest lie along the Geum River between Daejeon and Sejong Cities. Accessible from the Geumgang Bike Path, it offers a quiet retreat for visitors looking to enjoy forest trails, unique plants, and panoramic river views.
Geum River Arboretum
The Geum River Arboretum (금강수목원; map) lies within the Geum Forest. It’s a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers, showcasing a remarkable collection of over 2,600 species. Spread across themed gardens, the arboretum invites visitors to explore diverse flora, from local trees to exotic plants.
The arboretum features several themed areas, each with its own character.
- The Pine Garden celebrates the strength and longevity of Korea’s native pine species, offering shaded paths where visitors can walk among these towering trees.
- Nearby, the Wildflower Garden showcases native blooms that attract birds and pollinators year-round.
- The Tropical Greenhouse, a domed glass structure, is the arboretum’s standout feature. Inside, visitors can explore a warm, humid environment filled with exotic plants.
One of the arboretum’s most picturesque spots is the Changyeon Pavilion (창연정; map; Changyeonjeong). This wooden structure is perched to provide sweeping views of the Geum River and its surroundings. Visitors often pause here to take in the scenery or enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.
Another must-see feature is the Hwangtoh Metasequoia Trail, a red clay pathway lined with tall metasequoia trees. The trail is designed for barefoot walking, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with nature as they stroll along its soft surface.
For families, the arboretum offers engaging activities that entertain and educate. Seasonal forest education programs include guided tours and hands-on workshops, helping participants learn about the ecological importance of the plants around them.
The Geum River Arboretum is accessible for a small fee, though guests staying at the adjacent Geum River Natural Recreation Forest can visit for free.
Geum River Forest
The Geum River Natural Recreation Forest (금강자연휴양림; map) sits where the slopes of Gyeryong Mountain (계룡산; map; Gyeryongsan) meet the flowing Geum River. This well-maintained area blends camping and hiking with the backdrop of protected green space.
Visitors who spend the night in the forest can choose from a variety of accommodations. Forest cabins named “Hinoki,” “Pine,” and “Maple” cater to small and large groups alike, offering cozy stays for families or larger gatherings. The cabins are designed to provide comfort while maintaining a connection to the natural environment. Each is placed to offer privacy and easy access to nearby trails.
For those who prefer camping, there are well-prepared sites with wooden decks for tents and unique cabin-like structures that offer an elevated camping experience. Auto-camping areas provide added convenience, allowing guests to park right next to their camping spots.
The recreation forest caters to families with its grassy play areas. Open fields encourage sports and activities like soccer, while a playground surrounded by towering metasequoia trees provides a shaded and picturesque spot for children to enjoy.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails that meander through the forest, leading to highlights such as the Changyeon Pavilion (창연정; Changyeonjeong). This scenic overlook rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Geum River as it winds through the surrounding landscape.
The forest is especially captivating during spring and autumn.
- In spring, visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors of blooming wildflowers scattered across the forest floor.
- Autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows as the foliage changes, making it a favorite time for photography and quiet reflection.
Tips for Visitors
Camping Preparation
Plan to camp or stay in one of the simpler cabins within the Geum River Natural Recreation Forest? Many cabins are designed to offer a rustic experience, so be sure to bring your own bedding, such as sleeping bags or blankets.
Cooking facilities may be limited or non-existent in some accommodations, so bring portable cooking tools, like camping stoves and utensils. Pack a cooler with food, snacks, and beverages, as on-site options are minimal.
For campers staying in tents or cabin-like camping structures, a headlamp or flashlight will come in handy for navigating after dark. If you’re traveling with children, bringing a few lightweight games or activities can help make the trip more enjoyable.
Best Times to Visit
Early mornings are ideal for those who enjoy quiet, reflective walks. The forest comes alive with birds. This is also when the air is crisp, and the sunlight filters softly through the trees, casting a golden glow.
Alternatively, late afternoons offer a different setting. The low-angled light creates long shadows and a warm ambiance, making it perfect for photography. This is also a prime time to enjoy the views of the Geum River, as the setting sun reflects off the water and paints the landscape in rich colors.
