Same pine forest, different clocks
Gangneung's Solhyang Arboretum is not simply a forest that stays open after dark. In daylight, you can explore Korean red pines and seasonal gardens; at night, only designated paths may be accessible. And from November, the timetable changes.
Day visits end earlier in winter
Korea Tourism Organization's listing gives 09:00–17:00 for daytime visits from November through February, with last entry at 16:00. Do not rely on the longer March–October daytime schedule of 09:00–18:00 when planning a late arrival.
Evening access covers only certain trails
The same listing shows a winter night schedule of 18:00–22:00, with last entry at 21:00, but expressly says that only selected routes operate when night opening is in effect. This is not permission to walk every daytime mountain path after sunset. Holidays, weather and temporary restrictions may affect the actual programme. If an evening walk is your main reason to come, check the city's arboretum announcements or call 033-660-2322 beforehand.
What to notice among the trees
Look for the woodland ecology trail, the 'Thousand-Year Breath' restorative path and pine groves around the Sol Forest Square. The garden's displays change through the seasons. Rather than another coastal stop, this is a chance to experience the mountain landscape behind Gangneung.
Accessible features, but not every trail
The KTO accessible-tourism guide records accessible parking, some deck and ramp sections, toilets and a powered-wheelchair charging point. The site is still hilly, so these amenities do not mean every route is step-free. Verify a suitable route before travelling.
Visit note: 156 Sumogwon-gil, Gujeong-myeon, Gangneung. Closed Mondays, or the next day when Monday is a public holiday according to the tourism listing. Confirm night-route openings and last-entry rules with the operator.