Autumn 2026: Your Complete Guide to Gangwon-do's Scenic Drives, Fall Foliage & Local Delights

Autumn 2026, Recommended Gangwon-do Driving Routes: Your Complete Guide to Autumn Leaves and Local Delights

In autumn 2026, Gangwon-do unveils a stunning landscape painted with vibrant autumn foliage. Embarking on a Gangwon-do drive is an excellent way to escape the daily grind and find relaxation amid its abundant beauty. This guide comprehensively presents optimal driving routes, prime autumn foliage viewing spots, and distinctive local restaurant information to make the most of your autumn 2026 trip to Gangwon-do.

Autumn 2026: Forecast for Fall Foliage and Prime Viewing Spots in Gangwon-do

Autumn in Gangwon-do typically begins mid-October and reaches its peak in late October. Plan your visit by checking the predicted timing and major viewing spots for each region in advance.

Autumn Foliage Forecast (2026)

• Gangwon region (e.g., Seoraksan, Odaesan): Mid-October ~ Late October
• Seoraksan: Peak expected around October 25th
• Nami Island: Peak expected late October ~ mid-November

Top Autumn Foliage Destinations

• Seoraksan: Using the cable car, you can conveniently reach Gwongeumseong Fortress and enjoy the majestic mountain scenery, including Ulsanbawi Rock and Manmulsang Valley. (As of 2024-09-26)
• Odaesan Seonjaegil Trail: A pleasant walking trail alongside a valley, perfect for strolling along the autumn foliage path. (As of 2024-10-22)
• Wonju Sogeumsan Grand Valley: Experience breathtaking views from the suspension bridge and the skywalk. (As of 2024-09-26)
• Taebaek Cheoram Autumn Foliage Cluster: Stroll along the Danpungsanso-gil (Autumn Foliage Oxygen Path) and soak in the autumn ambiance.
• Hoengseong Pungsuwon Catholic Church: The large zelkova tree next to the church turns crimson in autumn, creating a beautiful scene. (As of 2023-10-09)
• Pyeongchang Balwangsan Cable Car: Comfortably ascend to the mountain peak while enjoying the autumn foliage. (As of 2024-09-26)
• Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest: Walk through the forest path covered with golden ginkgo leaves. (As of 2023-10-19)
• Inje Birch Forest: The harmony of white birch trees and autumn foliage is striking. (As of 2023-10-19)
• Wonju Bangyeri Ginkgo Tree: This colossal ginkgo tree, designated a Natural Monument, creates a magnificent golden spectacle in autumn. (As of 2023-10-09)

Scenic Drives: Recommended Routes in Gangwon-do for 2026

Here are some recommended routes where you can enjoy the beautiful nature of Gangwon-do. Each course boasts unique charms, allowing you to choose one that best suits your preferences.

Gangwon Tourist Road (Nature Road)

This route comprises seven courses that allow you to discover Gangwon-do's hidden scenic wonders along national and provincial roads. The 1,298 km figure-eight loop offers a diverse array of landscapes.

• Course 1: Lake Drive (Gapyeongchon IC ~ Inje Sinnam-myeon · 172 km): Experience lake scenery like Uiamho Lake and Chuncheonho Lake, nature, and culture/art. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 2: Seoraksan Drive (Inje Sinnam-myeon ~ Bukyangyang IC · 178 km): Enjoy Seoraksan scenery, the history of Korea's northernmost region, and the East Sea coastal views. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 3: High Pass Drive (Bukyangyang IC ~ Pyeongchang IC · 110 km): Admire the majestic scenery of the Baekdudaegan mountain range and pristine forests. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 4: Winding Road Drive (Pyeongchang IC ~ Jeongseon · 160 km): Experience landscapes carved by waterways, history, and moonlight and starlight. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 5: Deep Mountain Drive (Jeongseon ~ Samcheok · 189 km): Encompasses the deep mountains of Baekdudaegan, peculiar rock formations, mining culture, and the sea. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 6: Sea Drive (Samcheok ~ Pyeongchang IC · 134 km): Enjoy the beautiful East Sea scenery along the coastal road. (As of 2021-10-25)
• Course 7: Rural Landscape Drive (Pyeongchang IC ~ Gangchon IC · 139 km): Enjoy peaceful landscapes of forests, lakes, and rural areas. (As of 2021-10-25)

Isabu-gil Road (Saechonnyeon-ro Road)

This approximately 5 km coastal road connects Samcheok Beach and Samcheok Port, offering breathtaking views of the East Sea where uniquely shaped rocks harmonize with pine forests. (As of 2024-01-03)

Haesanryeong Pass

Located in Hwacheon-gun, Haesanryeong Pass is renowned as an autumn foliage destination, alongside Bisugumi Valley, providing a beautiful mountain road for scenic drives. (As of 2024-01-03)

Gangneung Heonhwa-ro Road

This is one of the closest roads to the sea in Korea, allowing you to enjoy a drive right alongside the beautiful East Sea. (As of 2024-01-03)

Autumn Flavors: Seasonal Delights and Must-Try Restaurants in Gangwon-do (2026)

Autumn in Gangwon-do proudly offers a rich selection of seasonal delights. We introduce dishes made with fresh seasonal ingredients and highlight the representative restaurants for each region.

Autumn 2026: Seasonal Produce and Seafood

• Seafood: Blue crab, gizzard shad, jumbo shrimp, hairtail, mackerel, squid, trout
• Agricultural Produce: Radish, bellflower root, mushrooms, sweet potato, Gondeure (Korean thistle), potato, new rice, buckwheat, black beans, pine mushrooms
• Fruits: Apple, pear, grape, fig, persimmon, jujube

Regional Must-Visit Restaurants

• Sokcho:

  • Jeongdeun Sikdang: Jang-kal-guksu (spicy noodle soup) with a deep and rich flavor. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Jinmi Makguksu: Myeongtaehoe Makguksu (buckwheat noodles with pollack sashimi), Dongchimi Makguksu (buckwheat noodles with radish kimchi). (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Namgyeong Makguksu: Perilla oil makguksu is their signature dish. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Choi Daegae: Enjoy king crab at reasonable prices. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Yuramseon Yasik: Spicy red snow crab salad, seasonal grilled fish, and other seafood dishes. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Ojingeo Nanjeon: Fresh squid sashimi and whole steamed squid. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Janggun Shioyakki: A dish of grilled meat served with seasoned shredded green onions. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Cheongchosu Mulhoe: Cool and tangy mulhoe (spicy cold raw fish soup). (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Manseok Dakgangjeong: Gangwon-do's representative Dakgangjeong (sweet and spicy crispy fried chicken). (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Bongpo Meogurijip: Fresh seafood dishes. (As of 2026-08-06)

• Gangneung:

  • Gangneung Wonjo Kalguksu: Spicy Jang-kal-guksu with a soybean paste base. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Double T Dining: Modern European fine dining by a Michelin 1-star experienced chef. (As of 2026-08-26)
  • Terarosa Coffee Factory: A place to enjoy relaxed time with coffee. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Donghwa Garden: Chodang Sundubu (soft tofu) dishes. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Gangneung Jjamppong Sundubu Gangneung Main Branch: Spicy Jjamppong Sundubu. (As of 2026-08-06)
  • Chodang Coffee: A place to experience Gangneung's coffee culture. (As of 2026-08-06)

• Chuncheon:

  • Chuncheon Dakgalbi: Fresh and juicy Chuncheon Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) is always a popular menu item. (As of 2026-06-29)

Autumn Festivities: Festivals and Events in Gangwon-do (2026)

Autumn in Gangwon-do brings a variety of festivals and events. Combine these with your driving route to fully immerse yourself in the abundant autumn season.

• 2026 Seomyeon Lake Starlight Festa: September 19th ~ September 20th (Uiamho Lake area, Chuncheon) - Wellness programs and cultural performances (As of 2026-08-25)
• Korea Reading Grand Festival: September 18th ~ September 20th (Gongjicheon Stream area, Chuncheon) - Reading and cultural programs (As of 2026-08-25)
• Taebaek Cheoram Autumn Foliage Festival: October 16th ~ October 18th (Taebaek) - Local cultural experiences (As of 2026-08-09)
• Gangneung Coffee Festival: October 21st ~ October 25th (Gangneung) (As of 2026-06-28)

Essentials for Your Autumn 2026 Gangwon-do Drive: A Checklist

For a successful autumn drive in Gangwon-do, make sure to pack the following.

• Vehicle Inspection: Essential checks such as tire pressure, engine oil, and brake fluid.
• Weather Check: Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so check weather information before departing.
• Warm Clothing: Extra layers to prepare for temperature differences between day and night.
• Camera: A camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery.
• Map or Navigation: Offline maps or a newly updated navigation system.
• Snacks and Beverages: Provisions for breaks during long drives.
• First Aid Kit: Basic medicines for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When does autumn foliage peak in Gangwon-do in fall 2026?

A1: Autumn foliage in the Gangwon region is expected to begin mid-October and reach its peak in late October. Seoraksan, in particular, is anticipated to peak around October 25th. However, timings may vary slightly due to climate change, so it's advisable to check the latest foliage forecast before your visit.

Q2: Are there any must-visit spots when driving in Gangwon-do?

A2: For autumn foliage viewing, Seoraksan, Odaesan, and Chiaksan are famous. Popular driving routes include the seven sections of the Gangwon Tourist Road (Nature Road), Isabu-gil Road, and Haesanryeong Pass. There are also many unique restaurants in each region, so plan to include them in your trip.

Q3: What festivals are held in Gangwon-do in autumn 2026?

A3: In September, the Seomyeon Lake Starlight Festa and the Korea Reading Grand Festival will take place in Chuncheon. In October, the Taebaek Cheoram Autumn Foliage Festival and the Gangneung Coffee Festival will be held. Festival schedules may be subject to change, so it's recommended to check official information before visiting.