October in Gangwon-do means autumn colour almost everywhere you look, but Dorongi Pond (도롱이연못) reveals fall in a different way. Rather than a mountain backdrop draped in foliage, the scene here is one of red and yellow leaves mirrored on the surface of the water — two worlds meeting at the waterline, as though the pond holds its own sky.
Why October Is the Right Time
Mid-October is widely regarded as the peak viewing window at Dorongi Pond. By then the trees encircling the water have turned deep red and gold, forming a natural screen around the pond. On a calm morning, with no wind to break the surface, that colour drops onto the water with near-perfect clarity. Visitors consistently report that a smartphone camera — even a mid-range one — is all the equipment needed to come away with a memorable shot. Many people simply set out a chair, face the water, and stay a while. The Korean concept of *mulmeong* — a kind of meditative, wordless gazing at water — fits nowhere better.
Dorongi Pond's rising profile is backed by figures: Gangwon-do tourism statistics recorded a 582.56% year-on-year surge in visitors to the site. Once known only to those in the know, it has steadily become one of the defining autumn-foliage destinations in the province for October.
What to See and Do
The pond gained wider attention after appearing as a filming location for the tvN variety show *Sankkun Dosi Yeojadeul* (Mountain Men, City Women) and the drama *Cheonwonjarri Byeonhosa* (One Dollar Lawyer). The pond itself is modest in size, but when autumn foliage and its water reflection align, visitors say it holds its own against far larger scenic spots. Beyond October, wildflowers fill the surrounding area in spring, making Dorongi Pond a four-season destination worth keeping in mind regardless of when you travel.
Getting There and Route Options
Dorongi Pond is located near High1 Resort (하이원 리조트) in Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do. Two main approaches are popular. The first is to drive directly to the parking area closest to the pond. The second is to take the High1 gondola up to High1 Top (하이원탑), then walk down to the pond along Untango-do Trail Section 5 (운탄고도 5길, also called Ogil). The trail descends from a high elevation but is generally described as having a gentle gradient, making it manageable for most walkers. Note that some sections include steeper downhill stretches; if you are travelling with young children, check current trail conditions before setting out.
Things to Prepare Before You Visit
Confirm any entry fees or access conditions through official sources before your trip, as these details can change by season. If you plan to walk the trekking route, bring enough water from the start — the stream beside the pond carries a notice that its water is not safe to drink, so pack your own. Mid-October weekends tend to draw crowds; for a quieter experience, a weekday visit or an early-morning arrival is worth the extra planning. Jeongseon is far enough from Seoul to reward a full day or an overnight stay, and the scenic drives in the surrounding area pair naturally with a visit to the pond for a well-rounded autumn itinerary.
