Motorcycle touring is a popular hobby in Korea, and the Baekdudaegan route is a well-known, challenging path. Posts detailing the raw, unglamorous reality of such trips, complete with struggles, unexpected encounters, and relatable moments of exhaustion, resonate with both fellow riders and general internet users who appreciate the 'real talk' and perseverance.
The Baekdudaegan is a major mountain range that forms the backbone of the Korean Peninsula. Traversing its many passes (๋ น, *ryeong*) is a significant challenge for hikers and motorcyclists alike, often seen as a test of endurance and a way to experience Korea's natural beauty.
Ugh, another day, another ride. Started off with some bomb Sundubu Jjigae for breakfast, then hit the Maguryeong Tunnel, first route of the day. Thought the light drizzle was gonna be chill, right? WRONG. Got to Gochiryeong summit and bro, there was SO MUCH SAND. Like, literally don't even bother coming here. Had to crawl up in 1st gear, slow af. And of course, no phone signal, FML ๐๐ Y'all, no cap, download Maps.me and offline maps BEFORE you hit these routes, this is real talk.
Next up, Baetteuljae. Why do they leave construction materials just chilling everywhere? But hey, at least there was a wide spot for pics, so I whipped out the tripod and went wild, lol. Then Bamjae, another uphill corner, super hard to stop. Started getting chilly. Bohwaljae observatory? Marker stone GONE. Gosujae? That 'Dororong' sound/vibe is literally everywhere, no escape.
Then Juknyeong, deep in Sobaeksan. And get this, I saw TWO foxes just zoom past, no cap! Their tails were so fluffy and cute, I'm screaming ๐ญ But of course, soon as I pulled out my camera, they bolted. Thought maybe my action cam caught 'em, but nah, wasn't even recording... FML, my heart ใ ใ ใ Visibility was probably less than 15 meters at that point. Took a quick break at Juknyeong rest stop, cleared the water from my helmet shield, you know the drill.
Tried to put a sticker on the Gohyangchi sign, but it was too steep to climb and the ground was all soft and dug up. Decided not to push it, no sticker for me. Then Jeosuryeong, and that's when the wind and rain hit DIFFERENT. Fog got even worse, raindrops on my screen and shield made it impossible to see, plus the insane fog. So I was like, nah, not taking another route down, just gonna turn back up and head to Danyang. FML.
Booked a motel, lmaooo. Pro tip: off-season weekdays, you can totally negotiate the price, peace out โ๏ธ Saw a giant GS25 right across the street, thank god. Literally 30 mins before writing this, I lowkey snuck a chocolate bar, coffee, and a note into my sleeve (don't ask) and crashed on the bed. I'm so tired, bestie. Honestly, ordering a 2-person meal is more cost-effective, just saying. Today's ride: DONE. Tomorrow, Mungyeong. Wonder if I'll see the homie who likes Nojjang? ๐