Beautiful Autumn Drive Routes with Scenic Views

Autumn drives aren’t just about seeing the scenery when you reach your destination. The winding curves of mountain passes, the reflections on reservoirs, and the metasequoia tree-lined roads create a beautiful fall experience during your journey itself. This list includes various spots from Hangeoryeong, Maltijae, Jeongnyeongchi, and Bobaljae to Jusanji and Damyang, focusing on rest areas, lookouts, and parking spots where you can actually stop and enjoy the view, rather than just naming the roads.

Beautiful roads can present sharp curves and slopes, along with fog, fallen leaves, and frost. Drivers should not take photos but let their passengers handle that, and they shouldn't stop randomly on the shoulder or outside the curves. Before setting out, check traffic control and parking lot openings, and confirm the status of fuel and electric vehicle charging. Decide on a return time so that you don't descend unfamiliar mountain roads after sunset. By taking advantage of the regional peak foliage times, you'll find it fun to experience different colors on various weekends instead of just one day.

Popular mountain roads during the foliage season typically have slower traffic and longer waits for parking at lookouts. Instead of trying to visit multiple places in one day, it’s safer and more satisfying to combine one route with a nearby walking trail. Passengers who are prone to motion sickness should take breaks before winding roads, and children should be wearing seat belts inside the vehicle. After it rains, fallen leaves can increase stopping distances, so make sure to maintain a safe speed and distance from other cars.

When you arrive at a lookout, exit the vehicle only after it is completely parked and avoid crossing the road to take photos immediately. Restrooms and stores at rest areas and reservoirs may have seasonal operating days, so be sure to check in advance. Foliage can display different colors even on backlit or cloudy days, so don’t feel compelled to chase the weather. If you notice controls or full lots, be ready to change your plans to a nearby village walking trail. It’s safer to divide responsibilities, assigning navigation and parking information to a passenger so the driver doesn't have to check the screen.