Strawberries, Ice Walls, and Sled Runs: A Winter-Day Escape from Seoul
A brisk, family-friendly day trip from Seoul that pairs strawberry-picking, sledding and a walk through a frozen valley
The bus pauses as the city thins into pines and low ridgelines; outside the window, roofs tuck under a clean sweep of snow. You step off with the sort of uncomplicated excitement that arrives when a routine weekend gives way to something deliberately offbeat: a day that pairs mouthfuls of sun-warmed strawberries with the sharp, bracing thrill of sledding, crowned by a short, surreal walk through a pocket of ice-carved geology. This is the kind of outing Seoul residents keep in a mental pocket for when they need a reset—equal parts simple, sensory, and seasonal.
Trail Wisdom
Dress in layers
Temperatures swing between sun-warmed greenhouses and icy valley wind—pack a mid-layer and a waterproof shell.
Bring grip-friendly footwear
The Ice Valley has icy, uneven footing; shoes with good soles or microspikes help prevent slips.
Protect your camera gear
Cold can drain batteries quickly—carry spares and keep cameras close to your body between shots.
Keep strawberries upright
If you purchase fruit to take home, store them flat and cool to avoid crushing and premature spoilage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small, family-run strawberry stalls along local roads where you can buy jam and preserves
- •A quiet riverside walk near Gapyeong for a post-tour cooldown and reflection
Wildlife
Korean magpie, Eurasian red squirrel
Conservation Note
The Ice Valley and surrounding natural areas are sensitive to trampling and litter; stick to marked paths and avoid breaking ice formations or picking wild plants.
The Gapyeong region developed as a leisure and agricultural hinterland for Seoul; greenhouse cultivation expanded local strawberry production in the late 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Early strawberry harvests, Milder temperatures, Less crowded trails
Challenges: Reduced snow for sledding, Mud on valley trails
Late winter into early spring yields ripe strawberries and improving temperatures, but snow can be patchy for sledding.
summer
Best for: Greenhouse tours, Longer daylight
Challenges: No snow for sledding, Higher temperatures
Summer is too warm for natural ice and sledding—this experience is primarily a late-winter/early-spring outing.
fall
Best for: Clear skies, Fewer crowds, Crisp air
Challenges: No natural ice, Shorter daylight
Autumn colors are pleasant, but frozen features and snow-based activities are not available.
winter
Best for: Reliable sled conditions, Ice formations at the valley, Seasonal atmosphere
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Icy paths, Possible travel delays in heavy snow
True winter delivers the best sledding and the most dramatic ice at the valley—dress warm and plan for potentially slick conditions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated, waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm between active sled runs and when visiting the shaded ice valley.
Waterproof, grippy footwearEssential
Prevents slips on icy paths and keeps feet dry during farm walks.
Small daypack with insulated pouch
Holds purchases, spare batteries, snacks, and a thermos—keeps strawberries upright and cool.
Gloves with dexterity (thin liner + insulated shell)Essential
Allows you to pick strawberries without exposing your hands to cold between runs.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The operator lists a variable duration of about 600–660 minutes (roughly 10–11 hours), including transfers to and from Seoul.
Is previous sledding experience required?
No—sled runs are groomed and family-friendly; staff typically provide basic instructions and supervision on the slopes.
Can I take home strawberries I pick?
Yes—farm visits usually allow you to purchase what you pick; bring a small container or use what the farm provides and keep fruit flat and cool for the trip home.
Are activities suitable for young children?
Yes—this is a family-oriented outing, though children should be supervised in the ice valley and on sled runs.
What about food and restroom breaks?
There are basic facilities at the resort and at larger farms; operators typically schedule at least one break for refreshments or snacks.
Is this experience available year-round?
No—the combination of sledding and ice formations is seasonal. Late winter to early spring is the optimal window when snow and strawberries overlap.
What to Pack
Waterproof shoes, Insulated layers, Small daypack for purchases, Spare camera battery (cold drains power)
Did You Know
Gapyeong County and nearby islands have been popular filming locations for Korean dramas—Nami Island and surrounding areas gained international recognition after 'Winter Sonata.'
Quick Travel Tips
1) Aim for late-February to early-March for both snow and strawberries. 2) Confirm pickup location and time with your operator. 3) Keep cash for small purchases at farms. 4) Charge camera batteries and use insulated pockets to preserve them.
Local Flavor
After the day, head to Chuncheon or a Gapyeong riverside town for dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), or try a strawberry bingsu (shaved ice) if the farm has a cafe—local markets often sell homemade jams and preserves to take home.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Incheon International Airport (ICN). Approx. drive from Seoul: 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. Meeting/Trailhead: Elysian-style resort and nearby farms (exact pickup varies by operator). Cell service: Generally available; may be spotty in shaded valley. Permits: None required for visitors; follow farm rules for picking.
Sustainability Note
This area's agricultural and natural sites are fragile—pack out all trash, avoid stepping on planted rows, and do not chip or remove ice formations from the valley.
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