From gentle riverbanks straight up into spectacular mountain country. The second stage tests the legs but rewards every effort with epic vistas. Leaving Yeoju, the track follows the Namhan River past monumental structures like the Gangcheon Weir toward the city of Chungju. At Tangeumdae, the route branches off onto the famous Saejae Path, heading inland. After a quick stop in the hot spring town of Suanbo, the most challenging yet beautiful climb of the entire cross-country route begins: the long ascent up the Ihwaryeong Pass. Reaching the 548m summit unlocks sweeping alpine panoramas before a thrilling descent sweeps down into historic Mungyeong.
