Gangseo Marsh Ecological Park 강서습지생태공원

The westernmost of the 12 Hangang Parks is the boggy and bird friendly Gangseo Marsh Ecological Park (강서습지생태공원). The park was established in 2007 and visitors can see numerous birds flying over wetlands and freshwater lakes surrounded with water loving plant species. The 8.5 kilometer long stretch of area gives people the opportunity to learn about migratory birds and offers eco-education programs as well as provides recreational grounds for soccer, basketball and croquet.

Trails lead away from the bike path where only pedestrians are allowed to wander, though you can’t roam too far as the trails are clearly marked and small fences line the paths. Visitors are welcome to a point as they must remember that this area is not only for them to enjoy nature, but it is also a place for nature to be preserved. The dirt trails link up to wooden bridges that crisscross the area and they are quiet as many people out this far west are the bicyclists speeding by on the pavement. The only sounds once on the trails are the birds squawking and tweeting in the nearby brush. Observatories with telescopes and binoculars are available for people to get a closer view while still maintaining some distance, but expect these areas to be closed when AI is an issue, as it is currently according to signs posted in the park.

Amenities: Convenience stores, Bicycle rental shops (W3,000 per hour) and bike lanes, Bathrooms available in the information center, Stroller Rentals, Soccer Fields, Basketball Courts, Croquet Court, Fishing

749-11 Banghwa 3(sam)-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Free