When a cool breeze begins to settle over Andong in October, the area around Woryeong Park quietly transforms. The ginkgo trees lining the riverbank turn yellow one by one, and the red and gold of the autumn foliage reflects across the surface of the lake. Walking right through that scenery, with no admission fee, is what makes a stroll along Woryeonggyo Bridge so appealing.
Why Late October Is the Sweet Spot
Autumn colour around Woryeonggyo begins to develop gradually from mid-October. The row of ginkgo trees stretching along the Nakdonggang riverbank fills with golden light, and when combined with the red maples along the lakeside path, the colours mirror perfectly on the water below. The foliage typically peaks between late October and early November—the prime window for a riverside walk. That said, peak timing shifts slightly each year depending on temperatures, so it's worth checking Andong City's official social media channels or local blogs just before your visit to see current conditions on the ground.
Routes Worth Walking: The Ginkgo Tree Path and the Lakeside Trail
The Woryeong Park ginkgo tree path is a long promenade that runs alongside the Nakdonggang, lined in autumn with golden ginkgos standing parallel to the river. The route has been named one of Andong's top ten autumn foliage spots by Gyeongbuk Ilbo, and during peak season it draws a fair number of visitors who come specifically to photograph the scenery. The lakeside trail (Hoban Nadeuri-gil), part of the broader Confucian Culture Trail (Yugyo Munhwagil), covers a total of 103 km and is laid out to take in both mountain and waterside scenery. If time is limited, picking just a section of the trail is more than satisfying.
Why Evening Beats Daytime Here
Woryeonggyo is particularly impressive after dark. Once the sun sets and the lights come on, the bridge and the water surface are illuminated together, creating an atmosphere completely different from daytime. In the autumn foliage season, when lighting is layered over red and yellow trees at dusk, the scene tends to stay with you. If you're looking for a free night-view spot this season, an evening walk along Woryeonggyo is a strong option.
Getting There and Visitor Tips
Andong is accessible from Seoul by KTX or express bus. The KTX from Seoul Station to Andong Station takes approximately two hours, and from Andong Station you can reach Woryeonggyo by local bus or taxi. If you're driving, parking is available near Woryeong Park, though on peak-season weekends visitor numbers are high, so an early morning arrival or a weekday visit is worth considering.
Andong in late October is noticeably cool in the mornings and evenings. If you're planning a night walk, a light down jacket or warm outer layer is essential—river breezes can feel colder than expected when you're focused on the foliage. Wear comfortable walking shoes and plan for around half a day; that's enough time to take in the ginkgo tree path and a portion of the lakeside trail at a relaxed pace.
