Baugil Course 10, the Sim Stefano Trail, stretches approximately 11 km. This section runs from the burial site of King Myeongju, the stopping point of Section 3, passing through Golaeu Village and continuing to Gyeongpodae Pavilion. While Catholic holy sites can be found throughout Korea, the spread of Catholicism was slower east of the Taebaek Mountain Range, resulting in a lack of such sites in this region. According to historical records and local stories, during the Byeongin Persecution, a Catholic believer named Sim Stefano practiced his faith in Golaeu Village in Gangneung. He was later captured by government officers dispatched from Seoul and lost his life. Although his exact identity has not been clearly established, one undeniable fact remains: a devout believer was martyred for his faith in this place. In honor of this story, Baugil named this area “Sim Stefano Village” and the trail “Sim Stefano Trail.”

Starting from the Baekdudaegan mountain range where the royal tomb of King Myeongju is located, this trail leads toward the blue East Sea. Passing through dense pine forests that stretch straight toward the sky, visitors will arrive at Golaeu Sim Stefano Village. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views created by the panoramic scenery of Gangneung City and the vast blue horizon of the sea. The course passes by Gangneung Rest Area, Solbawi Rock, Sim Stefano Village, Beomnyunsa Temple, Sarangbawi Village, and Hyojabi Pavilion, and concludes at Songyang Elementary School, where it connects to Course 11.

A Pilgrimage Route Walked in Remembrance of a Martyr
It is said that there were no Catholic holy sites east of Wonju and Hoengseong in Gangwon State during the late Joseon Dynasty’s Byeongin Persecution. However, in Golaeu Village along this trail, the story of a Catholic believer named Sim Stefano—who was captured by government officers and martyred—was discovered. The village was subsequently named “Sim Stefano Village,” and the trail “Sim Stefano Trail.” Visitors are encouraged to walk this course with a solemn and reverent heart, honoring the martyr.