Chilgok County, Dongmyeongji Trail: A Popular Walking Destination in Daegu and North Gyeongsang

Full Opening of the Entire Trail Begins on January 23

Chilgok County in North Gyeongsang Province announced on January 22 that it has completed the Dongmyeongji Waterside Ecological Park Trail, which has become a popular walking destination not only for local residents but also for people from nearby major cities such as Daegu and Gumi.

Dongmyeongji has long attracted visitors with its walking paths along the water's edge and tranquil scenery. At sunset, the night view spreading over the reservoir adds to the atmosphere, making it a well-known spot where simply taking a walk provides ample relaxation. However, since the trail was previously interrupted midway, walks always ended with a return along the same path.

About a 500-meter section through the hillside had been closed to the public due to the risk of falling rocks. Even after the completion of the waterside ecological park in December 2019, this section remained a challenge that was difficult to address.

Dongmyeongji Waterside Ecological Park Trail / Photo by Kim Ihwan

Residents, turning back at the end of the accessible path, often remarked, "If only this part were connected." For those who came to enjoy the night view, the interrupted section was a constant source of disappointment.

To connect this isolated section, Chilgok County began renovation work in September of last year. As part of a resident support project in a restricted development zone, the county invested a total of 1 billion won in the "Dongmyeongji Waterside Ecological Exploration Trail Construction Project" to improve the area at risk of falling rocks. In the hillside section, a 300-meter deck road and a 200-meter coconut mat path were installed, minimizing environmental impact while ensuring pedestrian safety.

With the completion of the renovation, the Dongmyeongji trail is now seamlessly connected. Residents can now enjoy a continuous circular walking path around the reservoir. During the day, they can appreciate the harmonious scenery of water and forest, while at night, they can enjoy the serene night view illuminated by lights.

An official from Chilgok County stated, "We have received many inquiries from residents waiting for the trail to open," and added, "We will continue to develop this space as a comfortable place for relaxation in everyday life, based on a safe walking environment."