Are you looking for a scenic, historic, and well-maintained cycling route in South Korea? The Geumgang River Bike Path (금강자전거길) is the perfect 2-day journey. From peaceful riverbanks to ancient Baekje Kingdom heritage, this guide breaks down the itinerary into two manageable days, including the best way to return to Seoul.
Day 1: Shintanjin Station to Baekjebo (The Heart of Baekje Culture)
Your journey begins at Shintanjin Station, which is highly accessible by train. After a short ride to the starting point, you will officially hit the Geumgang Bike Path.
- Route: Shintanjin Station ＞Daecheongdam ＞ Sejong Bo ＞ Gongjubo ＞Baekjebo
- Distance: Approx. 65–70 km
- Highlights:
- Daecheongdam: The starting certified booth offers a stunning view of the dam.
- Sejong & Gongju: Ride through the modern city of Sejong and enter the historic city of Gongju, the ancient capital of the Baekje Kingdom.
- Baekjebo: End your first day near Buyeo.
Day 2: Baekjebo to Geumgang Estuary Bank & Returning to Seoul
On Day 2, the river widens as you head toward the ocean. The path becomes flatter but can be windy as you approach the coast.
- Route: Baekjebo ＞ Iksan Seongdang Podogu ＞ Geumgang Estuary Bank (Gunsan) ＞ Gunsan Intercity Bus Terminal
- Distance: Approx. 75–80 km
- Highlights & Logistics:
- Iksan Seongdang Podogu: Famous for its beautiful windbreak forest—a perfect spot for photos.
- Geumgang Estuary Bank: The final certification booth! Enjoy the breathtaking view where the river meets the Yellow Sea.
- Heading Back to Seoul: From the final booth, ride about 6-7 km to the Gunsan Intercity Bus Terminal. You can easily load your bicycle into the bus luggage compartment and take an express bus back to Seoul (Central City or Dong Seoul Terminal).
Travel Tip: Buses bound for Seoul can be fully booked on weekends. It is highly recommended to reserve your bus tickets ahead of time using the ‘T-money GO’ (티머니 Go) mobile app—ideally before starting your Day 2 ride or when you reach the Seongdang Podogu area. (Note: The app accepts foreign credit cards, making it easy for international travelers to book in advance!)