Basalt Gorge Along Daegyocheon Stream of Hantangang River

Along the banks of the Hantangang River a basalt plain has formed, and the river's course across this basalt plain has cut a basalt gorge of a distinctively striking landscape. The Basalt Gorge Along Daegyocheon Stream of Hantangang River, in Cheorwon, is the most representative of these gorges and is of great academic importance for understanding the geological and geomorphological development of the Quaternary period of the Cenozoic era. The gorge has formed along a straight stretch of the river where the streambed gradient is relatively steep, with downward erosion more active than lateral erosion. Basalt columnar joints are beautifully distributed throughout the walls of the gorge. Columnar joints are hexagonal columns formed when lava that has erupted onto the surface contracts as it cools. These columnar joints develop not only in the floor of the gorge but also on the cliffs on either side, and in places simple vertical joints occur as well. This basalt gorge is about 1.5km long in total, with the gorge walls 20 to 30m deep, presenting an outstanding landscape; nearby are well-known scenic spots such as Goseokjeong Pavilion and Sundam Valley.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Pocheon, Gyeonggi

Designation

Natural Monument · 천연기념물