A Complete Guide to High Resort: South Korea’s Year-Round Mountain Playground for Skiing, Snowboarding and much more!
High 1 Resort: A Tranquil Escape in Vibrant South Korea
Discover the excitement of skiing and snowboarding at High 1 Resort, one of South Korea’s top mountain destinations.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide will give you all the info you need to plan your perfect winter getaway.
While this guide is geared toward intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders, beginners will find useful tips as well.
And of course, everything I cover is dog-friendly—as our border collie, Winnie, always joins us on our ski adventures.
While dogs aren’t allowed on the slopes in winter, there’s a dog-friendly condo at the base, and pups are welcome in the base area. In the summertime, dogs can join you on the gondola and explore the resort’s network of trekking trails.
But don’t worry—you can enjoy it all with or without a furry companion!
Planning Your Korean Ski Holiday?
Check out my other favorite Korean ski resorts:
About Colorado Saram
I’m a Colorado native who grew up in the ski town of Vail and have been living and working in South Korea as an English teacher since 2007.
I started this website to share my experiences of living and traveling in South Korea and Asia through the lens of a Colorado outdoor enthusiast, with a big focus on skiing and snowboarding.
In the 2023-2024 season, I wrote my first detailed guide to Muju Deogyusan Ski Resort in North Jeolla Province (Jeollabuk-Do). If you’re looking for a quieter, more remote option away from Seoul, it’s definitely worth checking out.
As a resident of Daegu, Muju Deogyusan is the closest major ski resort to me. While it’s a bit of a longer trip to Gangwon Province, it’s widely considered the best destination for skiing and snowboarding in South Korea.
For the 2024-2025 season, I’m focusing on several resorts in Gangwon Province, which I believe offer the best skiing and snowboarding experiences in the country.
I just finished a comprehensive guide on Yongpyong Resort, also known as Mona Yongpyong, where I dive into what makes it another top choice for skiing in South Korea.
Gangwon Province
This guide focuses on High 1 Resort, located in Gangwon Province (also known as Gangwon-do), a region celebrated for its mountainous terrain and reputation as a top skiing destination in South Korea.
From my perspective as a Colorado native, Gangwon-do is where you’ll find the best skiing and snowboarding in Korea.
Let’s be clear—it’s not going to compare to Colorado or even nearby Japan, but for South Korea, this is about as good as it gets.
Gangwon-do’s rugged terrain and heavier snowfall (by Korean standards) make it the perfect spot for some of the country’s top ski resorts.
While “powder days” here aren’t exactly steep and deep, I’ve enjoyed a few sessions last season where fresh snow was a welcome surprise.
The province’s cooler climate and reliable winter conditions have made it the heart of South Korean skiing.
There’s also an argument to be made for Gyeonggi Province, but its proximity to Seoul usually means bigger crowds.
As a resident of Daegu, my personal experience spans mostly from Muju in the south up to the Gangwon-do resorts.
How to Get to High 1 Resort
High 1 Resort, nestled in the mountains of Gangwon Province, is more remote compared to resorts like Yongpyong Resort, which benefits from the nearby city of Pyeongchang. While this isolation can offer a peaceful escape, it also means there isn’t a major city in close proximity.
For international travelers arriving from overseas, this can make High 1 slightly less convenient to reach than Yongpyong Resort, which has easier access to public transportation hubs.
That said, High 1 is still accessible by car or public transportation, though it may require a bit of extra planning. If you’re flying into Seoul, consider using an inter-city bus or KTX to a nearby town like Gohan or Sabuk, then transferring to a shuttle or taxi to complete the journey to the resort.
If you’re arriving directly from overseas and have pre-booked a hotel, I recommend contacting them to ask about the easiest way to reach their location. Most hotels should have staff who speak basic English or can communicate effectively using translation devices.
High 1 Resort by Car
When I first started skiing in South Korea, renting a car was a great option for road trips, including ski trips. Now, owning a car makes these trips even easier.
High 1 Resort is well-connected by major highways, so driving from several large cities is still manageable, though expect a longer drive compared to other resorts.
If you’re interested in more information about driving in South Korea, you can read my foreigner’s guide here.
High 1 Resort by Train
High 1 Resort by Bus
It’s a good idea to check train and bus schedules and to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy winter season.
High 1 Resort Package Tours
High1 Ski Resort now offers convenient Ski & Room Packages through Klook, making it easier than ever to plan your trip. These packages include lodging in a premium condo, lift tickets, and rental equipment, with options for 2D1N, 3D2N, and 4D3N stays.
All packages are currently 10% off, with prices starting at US$214.30 per person, depending on group size and package type. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, these packages provide a hassle-free way to enjoy everything High1 Resort has to offer.
For more details and booking, check out the Klook High1 Ski Resort Packages. Don’t miss out on this all-in-one deal for an unforgettable ski trip in South Korea.
Klook also offers great package tours to other mountain destinations in Gangwon-do, making it a perfect resource for exploring the region’s top skiing and snowboarding spots. Check out Top Gangwon-do Skiing & Snowboarding for more options.
High 1 Resort Hotels
Finding the right place to stay at High 1 Resort can make your ski trip even more enjoyable. With accommodations ranging from premium condos to cozy pensions, you’ll have easy access to the slopes and other resort amenities.
Agoda is usually my go-to booking platform in Asia, offering reliable results for High 1 Resort and the surrounding Jeongseon-gun area. However, it’s worth comparing options on Trip.com and Booking.com using the search term “Jeongseon-gun” and the above links will take you straight to the search results.
While my Korean wife sometimes books through what I jokingly call the “Korean Internet,” I’ve had smooth experiences with all the platforms mentioned.
As an affiliate, I may earn a commission if you book through the links above—at no extra cost to you.
Dog-Friendly High 1 ‘Pet Club’ at Hill Condo
As I mentioned earlier, our border collie, Winnie, joins us on all of our ski trips. Having her with us is wonderful, but it does add a layer of complexity to our travel plans.
That’s why we always stay at High 1 Resort Hill Condo for both winter and summer visits.
Conveniently located right at the base of the mountain, the condo is ski-in/ski-out and features an entire wing—the D-Wing—dedicated to being fully dog-friendly. This area is officially named the High 1 Pet Club.
The entire D-Wing of Hill Condo is dog-friendly, including a pet-friendly café on the ground floor. Besides the prime location and pet-friendly accommodations, the condo is spacious and well-appointed. It’s not the cheapest option, but if you’re bringing your dog, I highly recommend it.
Even if you’re not traveling with a pet, Hill Condo has several other wings that offer the same comfort and convenience without dogs in the hallways.
Dog-Friendly Amenities
In addition to allowing dogs in the spacious condo rooms, High 1 Resort Hill Condo offers a range of pet-friendly amenities.
Pet Kindergarten
The resort features a dog-boarding kindergarten—perfect for most pets while you’re out on the slopes. Our border collie isn’t great with being left behind, so we usually take turns skiing while the other explores the base area or relaxes in the condo with Winnie.
Pet Club Café
There’s also a dog-friendly café on the first floor of the D-Wing, serving Korean food, drinks, and coffee. It’s a convenient spot to warm up without heading back to your room.
There’s ample outdoor space for pet bathroom breaks, though pets must be on a leash, and owners are expected to clean up after them.
Pet Club Sky Park
The High 1 Resort Hill Condo also features the Pet Club Sky Park, an outdoor area specifically designed for pets. This spacious park provides a safe, enclosed environment where dogs can run and play off-leash under supervision. It’s located just across the street from the D-Wing entrance and is open year-round.
The park includes pet-friendly amenities such as agility equipment and shaded seating areas for owners.
Additional Lodging Options
Although it’s not pet-friendly like the High 1 Hill Condo, the High 1 Resort Mountain Condo is an excellent alternative for those seeking a similar stay. Located right at the base of the resort, it offers unbeatable ski-in/ski-out convenience. With spacious rooms, kitchen facilities, and easy access to the slopes, it’s a top choice for families or groups looking for comfort and proximity to the action.
Park Roche Resort & Wellness offers a premium, relaxing stay with beautiful mountain views and a full range of wellness facilities, including a spa and fitness center. Located just a short distance from High 1 Resort, this resort provides a peaceful retreat after a day on the slopes. With spacious rooms and top-tier amenities, it’s a great choice for those looking to unwind in luxury.
For a more affordable, yet charming option, Dodo Pension offers a cozy stay with easy access to the resort. This pension is known for its friendly atmosphere and comfortable rooms, making it a solid choice for those on a budget. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for a more laid-back, homely vibe without compromising on proximity to the slopes.
Connecting Abroad: Staying Connected with an Airalo eSIM for South Korea
🇰🇷 South Korea eSIMs: Affordable and reliable options for South Korea.
If you’re heading to South Korea for a ski or snowboarding adventure, staying connected is essential for navigating ski resorts, using GPS, and sharing your experiences. I recently reviewed my experience with an Airalo eSIM card during a trip to Vietnam, and this convenient eSIM also offers seamless, high-speed internet access in South Korea.
With the Airalo eSIM, you get reliable internet coverage across South Korea without needing to swap physical SIM cards. From live map updates to quick communication with friends or guides, it’s a hassle-free way to stay connected wherever your travels take you in South Korea—and beyond.
I’ll be chasing powder in Japan this winter, and based on my experience in Vietnam, I’ll definitely be using an Airalo eSIM for that trip, too.
Affiliate Disclosure: I only recommend products and companies I genuinely believe in. By booking your package tour or purchasing an eSIM through the links above, you’ll be supporting my blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Complete Guide to High 1 Resort
Below is the full trail map for High 1 Resort, featuring all trails, lift names, base areas, parking and resort hotels.
For a more detailed look, I’ll be breaking down each area of the mountain further down, covering everything you need to know for your visit—whether you’re here to ski, snowboard, or just enjoy the winter scenery.
Stick around to the end for information about High 1 Resort’s season.
Trail Map
You can download the map for free here.
Slopes & Trails
High 1 Resort features 18 ski slopes with varying difficulty levels, accommodating everyone from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
The longest run, the Panorama Course, stretches 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles), providing a scenic experience for skiers.
In total, there are 21 kilometers (13 miles) of trails on the mountain, though not all may be open throughout the season, depending on snow conditions.
Chairlifts and Gondolas
High 1 Resort includes 3 connected gondolas, 8 chairlifts, and 2 magic carpets on the beginner slopes. The interconnected gondolas are a standout feature, making it easy to explore different areas of the mountain.
If you head to the Valley Hub, which I recommend for a different perspective of the resort, remember that you’ll need to return to the base area to catch the Apollo lift or gondola back across the mountain. Be sure to check out the trail map for navigation.
Elevation
Base Elevation: 720 meters (2,362 feet)
Summit Elevation: 1,367 meters (4,485 feet)
While the summit elevation at High 1 isn’t as high as some international ski destinations, it’s still among the highest in South Korea, providing a respectable vertical drop for skiing.
Nearest Town Centers
Gohan-eup (고한읍): 3 km away
Sabuk-eup (사북읍): 4 km away
These nearby towns are just a short drive from High 1 and offer restaurants, convenience stores, hotels, and rental shops.
I suggest renting your ski gear in town if possible, as they often have a wider selection and better quality equipment.
Additionally, discounted lift tickets and lessons are available for purchase directly from the ski shops, making it a beneficial stop if you’re arriving by car.
Lift Ticket Prices and Hours at High 1 Resort for the 2024/25 Ski Season
Unlike most North American resorts that offer simple full-day or half-day passes, Korean ski resorts—including High 1—provide more flexible lift ticket options.
As a Colorado native, I know firsthand how pricey skiing can be back home, but skiing in South Korea is generally much more affordable.
High 1 Resort offers lift tickets based on hourly increments, allowing you to customize your skiing or snowboarding time to fit your schedule. Instead of a set full-day or half-day pass, you can choose lift access for specific time blocks, ranging from 3 hours up to a full day, with night skiing available until 1:00 a.m.
Below are the updated lift ticket prices for High 1 Resort for the 2024/25 ski season. An all-day pass costs 104,000 KRW for adults and 92,000 KRW for children, roughly $80 and $70 USD respectively (exchange rates may vary).
This system is perfect for skiers or snowboarders who want to make the most of just a few hours on the slopes, whether it’s a quick morning session or an evening run under the lights. Your chosen time starts with your first lift scan, so you can enjoy your time on the mountain without feeling rushed.
Night Skiing & Snowboarding
High 1 Resort offers night skiing and snowboarding, which you can access through their flexible ticketing options. You can purchase tickets for specific time blocks, so whether you prefer skiing during the day or under the lights, you can choose a schedule that works for you.
Though I’m not a huge fan of night skiing myself, it’s a unique experience worth trying if you’re staying overnight at the resort. The trails are well-lit, but keep in mind that visibility can be a bit reduced when looking through goggles at night.
Personally, I prefer natural daylight, but night skiing is fun and definitely something to try at least once.
Discount Tickets & Packages
One unique aspect of life in South Korea is that there’s almost always a deal to be found. When purchasing lift tickets in Korea, I recommend checking with rental shops in nearby towns for discount tickets. While I can’t confirm that every rental shop in Korea offers this, it’s a trick I picked up last season, and it seemed to hold true at both High 1 and in Pyeongchang near Yongpyong Resort.
As you approach High 1 Resort, you’ll pass through towns like Gohan-eup and Sabuk-eup, where the roads are lined with rental shops, convenience stores, and restaurants.
To purchase discounted lift tickets at a rental shop, you typically need to pay via Korean bank transfer. In return, you’ll receive a receipt, which you then exchange for a lift ticket at the resort’s ticket window. Be sure to ask the rental shop directly about these tickets, as they’re not generally advertised with signs.
This might feel a bit dodgy at first, but it’s legitimate, and in my experience, widely practiced at most Korean ski resorts. During the 2023–2024 season at High 1, I paid ₩51,000 and ₩48,000 (around $40 USD) for 7-hour lift tickets from a rental shop, as opposed to the standard ₩70,000 price for the same duration.
Unless you’re short on time, I recommend avoiding the resort’s ticket windows, as you can almost always find a discount in Korea. Whether you’re booking a package, buying tickets online, or visiting a nearby rental shop, there are typically ways to save.
If you’re driving, accessing the nearby towns for rentals and ticket deals is easy. If you’re arriving by bus without a package, taking a taxi to these shops might work, though it could reduce your overall savings. In that case, a package tour is often your best option, as it typically includes transportation, gear rentals, and lift tickets.
Additionally, ski or snowboard lessons are often available at discounted rates through the rental shops. My wife took a lesson last season from one of these shops, which worked out well and saved us some money.
I’ll provide more details on lessons in the upcoming section.
High 1 Resort Season Passes
I haven’t purchased a season pass at any South Korean resort because, living in Daegu, I can’t hit the slopes often enough to make it worthwhile.
High 1 offers season passes priced at ₩600,000 for adults and ₩500,000 for children (ages 5–13). These prices are accurate as of December 2024, according to the High 1 website, but I recommend confirming directly in case of updates.
South Korea X5 Multi-Resort Season Pass
Another option to consider is the X5 Multi-Pass, which grants access to five major resorts in South Korea, including High 1 and Mona Yongpyong Resort—two of my personal favorites. I’m still debating whether to get this pass for the 2024/25 season, but it’s a great choice if you plan to ski often across multiple resorts.
For more information, here’s a link to a detailed, unaffiliated blog post that explains the X5 Multi-Pass option in-depth.
Should You Buy a Ski Pass or Lift Tickets?
This season, I decided against purchasing a ski pass in South Korea. For me, daily lift tickets are relatively affordable (especially when purchased at a discount from a rental shop), and since I don’t live near any ski resorts, it’s hard to make a season pass worth the investment.
Additionally, I have a February trip booked to Hokkaido, Japan, where I hope to enjoy some true powder skiing. With limited resources as an English teacher, I decided to save my budget for that trip instead.
Mountain Terrain & Ability Levels
High 1 Resort has terrain for all skill levels, offering a balanced mix of runs for beginners, intermediates, and experts.
As an advanced skier (humble brag), High 1 is one of my top picks in Korea for its expansive terrain and variety.
Unlike some Korean resorts, where advanced and intermediate skiers are limited to specific areas, High 1 offers a diverse range of runs across the entire mountain.
Although I haven’t skied on the East Coast in the United States, High 1 has an “East Coast vibe”—that’s admittedly just based off of conversations I’ve had with a few East Coasters in my life.
In the following sections, I’ll mainly refer to chairlift names instead of ski run names, as High 1 uses letters and numbers for trails (check the trail map), which can be confusing.
No matter your skill level, there’s something for everyone here.
High 1 Resort also has two trails marked as Expert—AP5 and V3—offering a greater challenge beyond the Advanced category.
Beginner
The main beginner area at High 1 Resort is near the Mountain Hub and Valley Hub, with gentle slopes ideal for learning.
Beginners can practice in a designated learning area with a magic carpet, making it easier to get comfortable on the snow.
If you’re just starting out, try the Jupiter lift first, then advance to the Zeus lift as you gain confidence.
My wife, a beginner, took a lesson where the instructor guided her from the Mountain Ski House base (accessible by gondola or car) to the Valley Ski House. From there, she could ride the gondola back to our Hill Condo accommodation.
Intermediate
High 1 Resort offers excellent intermediate terrain, with some of the best runs accessible via the Apollo, Hera, and Victoria lifts.
While most runs are labeled with letters and numbers, a few, like the Panorama Course, have names. The Panorama Course, the longest at the resort, begins near Mountain Top at the top of the Hera lift and descends all the way to the Valley Ski House base area.
Your legs will definitely feel the burn if you tackle it from top to bottom!
For both intermediate and advanced skiers, the Athena, Hera, and Zeus lifts provide access to plenty of cruisers.
Keep in mind that most skiers and snowboarders fall into the beginner and intermediate levels, so those runs and chair lifts see the heaviest crowds. While crowds haven’t been a major issue for me on the advanced trails, be prepared for some lengthy waits, especially at the bottom of the Valley Base area for the Juniper and Zeus lifts.
Additionally, skiing in Korea can sometimes feel like a contact sport, so stay alert on the more crowded runs near the base area.
Advanced
If you’re truly an expert skier or boarder, there’s honestly not a lot in South Korea that’ll knock your socks off; especially if you’re seeking the steep and deep.
That said, High 1 has a few good, steep runs that will get your legs burning and put your carving skills to the test.
One advantage of the advanced terrain is the shorter lift lines, allowing you to ski with fewer worries about collisions compared to beginner and intermediate trails.
The Victoria lift, in particular, often has minimal lines, so you can make quick laps.
When I’m skiing solo at High 1, I mainly stick to the Victoria and Hera lifts. The Athena lift is also enjoyable, offering long runs for carving.
Compared to other resorts like Mona Yongpyong, High 1 offers more space to explore, which I appreciate. At Yongpyong, advanced skiers really only have two main areas.
For advanced terrain, the slopes off of the Victoria lift offer some of the steepest terrain on the mountain.
Base Map & Mountain Cams
Check out this map for reference, along with links to mountain cams positioned throughout the resort. These cameras are especially helpful for checking snow conditions and seeing which areas are open.
The cameras also operate during the summer if you’re interested in viewing the summer activities.
On-Mountain Dining & Facilities
High 1 Resort offers several convenient on-mountain dining options and facilities, making it easy to grab a bite or warm up without leaving the slopes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a full meal, or just a cozy spot to relax, here are the key areas you’ll want to know about.
You can refer to this resort map for specific locations mentioned in this section.
At the summit near the top of the Hera chairlift, you’ll find High 1 Mountain Top. This spot offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it an excellent place to pause for a meal.
While I found the food options a bit limited, it was a welcome retreat to warm up on a freezing night during my night-skiing experience. There’s also a panoramic view café accessible by elevator, which I didn’t get to try, but it seemed popular with other visitors.
In my opinion, the best dining option is Valley Hub. If you’re an intermediate to advanced skier, this area makes an ideal base, providing prime access to both the Hera and Victoria lifts.
Valley Hub serves basic but solid Western and Korean resort fare. I hadn’t had ski-area chicken nuggets since my ski racing days in Colorado—but these came with a side of kimchi!
For more variety, Mountain Hub offers a range of dining choices, including a food court with different vendors serving everything from hearty meals to quick snacks.
In addition to these primary dining spots, you’ll find other facilities at Mountain Ski House and Valley Ski House near the base areas. These locations are perfect for a quick meal or a warm-up break without having to return to your accommodations.
Snow Conditions
If you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder, I’ll be upfront: don’t expect endless, epic powder days here. For that kind of snow, you’d be better off chasing storms in nearby Hokkaido, Japan.
That said, for South Korea, I’ve had some of my best snow days at High 1 Resort, likely thanks to its location in Gangwon Province.
I’ve skied here numerous times, and I’ve yet to have a bad day. While advanced and expert runs can get a bit icy, which calls for some caution, High 1 generally offers some of the best snow conditions in South Korea.
At the very least, you can expect well-groomed runs. On good days, you might even find snow as good as what you see in the picture below.
From my experience, High 1 leads South Korean ski resorts in snow-making capabilities. I don’t have stats to back it up, but I’ve consistently seen most slopes open here, which isn’t always the case elsewhere.
Of course, conditions vary depending on the time of year. For your best chance at good snow, plan your trip between December and February.
Ski,Snowboard, and Gear Rentals
If you’re heading to High 1 and don’t have your own gear, don’t worry—you can rent everything you need either at the resort base or in one of the nearby towns.
For beginners, like my wife, the resort rentals work just fine. But if you’re particular about your gear quality, like me, you might want to check out the rental shops in town, where you can often find better options.
Resort Rentals
The main rental area at Mountain House provides skis, snowboards, helmets, and more. It’s perfect if you’re a first-timer or just don’t want to haul equipment across the country.
The rental process is smooth, and the staff are generally helpful—even if you don’t speak Korean, they’ll get you set up quickly so you can hit the slopes.
Plus, the rental area is just steps from the lifts, so you can grab your gear and be skiing in minutes. Lockers are available nearby for storing your shoes and clothes, making it easy to transition from the rental area to the slopes without hassle.
The staff are generally helpful and efficient, and even if you don’t speak Korean, they’ll get you in and out quickly so you can maximize your time on the mountain.
Rental Shops in Town
If you’re looking for higher-quality gear, the rental shops in town may be a better choice. The resort’s equipment, while serviceable, includes rear-entry boots and skis that max out around 160 cm.
For those with a car, it’s worth checking out town shops before heading up the mountain, as they often have better gear and even offer discounted lift tickets and lessons.
While these discounts might not be heavily advertised, the staff are usually happy to set you up if they’re ask about them.
Helmets Are Required at High 1 Resort
Last season, I heard helmets were now required—and it’s true. You won’t be allowed on any chairlift without one. While I’m not thrilled about this mandate, it’s probably for the best. If you don’t have your own helmet, the resort offers them for free with your rental.
For those who, like me, prefer not to use shared helmets, I found a solid option on Coupang for around $40. Whatever you decide, keep in mind that helmets are mandatory at High 1.
If this requirement is a deal-breaker, consider nearby Mona YongPyong, which doesn’t have this rule.
Ski & Snowboard Lessons
High 1 Resort offers a range of ski and snowboard lessons designed for various skill levels, from absolute beginners to those looking to refine their technique.
Whether it’s your first time on skis or a snowboard, or you’re an experienced rider aiming to improve, the resort’s certified instructors are ready to help.
At the time of writing, the prices for lessons aren’t listed on the resort’s website, though they may be available by the time you read this.
The resort offers both private and group lessons, with private sessions being more expensive. My wife, apparently unimpressed by my “pizza and french fries” teaching method, opted for a private half-day lesson instead.
I can’t argue with the results—if you check out the TikTok below, you’ll see her whizzing by like a young Olympian.
High 1 Highlights
Dining and Aprés-Ski
If you’re coming to Korea expecting a vibrant après-ski scene similar to what you’d find in Europe or North America, you may be a bit disappointed. Koreans tend to prefer smaller, private gatherings over bustling bar scenes.
This means you won’t find many après-ski bars, live music, or clubs at the resorts. However, there’s no shortage of convenience store beer, soju, and other alcohol, so most socializing happens in the comfort of condos with friends and family.
Koreans are also big fans of night skiing and snowboarding, which generally calls for sobriety. I strongly advise against night skiing with a buzz; it’s already challenging enough without adding alcohol into the mix.
Dining Options
After a day on the slopes, you’ll find that dining options at High1 Resort are somewhat limited. There are a few base-area restaurants offering classic ski-resort fare like chicken and pizza, but the selection is modest.
If you’d rather relax in your room, many places offer takeout, and you can even get delivery from nearby restaurants to enjoy a cozy meal without venturing outside.
Staying in one of the resort condos also gives you access to convenience stores stocked with Korean-style fast food, so it’s easy to grab a quick bite without leaving the premises.
For a wider range of dining options, the nearby town is worth exploring. A short drive or taxi ride will take you to local restaurants, where you’ll find a more diverse selection than what’s available at the base of the mountain.
Kangwonland Casino
As mentioned, après-ski isn’t a big part of the ski resort culture in South Korea. However, if you’re looking for a way to unwind beyond the usual food and drinks after a day on the slopes, Kangwonland Casino is a unique option.
Just a short drive or shuttle ride from High1 Resort, Kangwonland is the only casino in South Korea where Korean nationals can legally gamble, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
I haven’t personally visited Kangwonland, but it’s one of Asia’s largest casinos, with a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, and poker rooms.
Beyond gambling, Kangwonland also has several dining and nightlife options. The complex features restaurants serving both Korean and international cuisine, along with bars and lounges where you can relax with a drink.
The casino provides a distinct way to end your day after hitting the slopes, especially since South Korean ski resorts tend to lack traditional après-ski venues.
If you’re staying at High1 Resort, the casino’s nearby location makes it easy to check out. Be sure to look up the rules for entry before planning your visit.
High 1 Resort Summer Season
Before moving to South Korea to teach English, I promoted summer season at Vail—an aspect of the famous winter resort that many people overlooked.
High 1 Resort is similar; it’s an excellent summer destination.
After two winter visits for skiing last year, we returned this summer to explore. Naturally, we brought our dog and stayed at the same Hill Condo (see hotel section above).
Just like Vail, High 1 offers scenic mountain trekking, thrilling on-mountain activities, and family-friendly spots like Water World, ensuring there’s plenty to enjoy in warmer months.
High 1 Summer Trekking
We arrived in the afternoon, checked into the condo, and headed straight to the trekking trails near the Mountain House base. If you’re driving, continue up the road to the large parking area; the trailhead (pictured below) is at the far end.
My wife was set on reaching Dorongi Pond, inspired by Instagram photos she had seen. As the sun started to set, the hike was a bit hectic, racing up a few steep sections, but we made it.
For those interested, you can also take the free gondola to the top and walk over to the pond. Dogs are allowed in the gondola during summer, making it easy to bring them along.
Note: The hike isn’t overly difficult, but I wouldn’t start after 4 p.m. like we did.
As shown on the map, you can either hike up or take the gondola to access various trails, both on the ski mountain and off-piste.
High 1 Summer Trekking Map
High 1 Trekking Highlights
Additional Trekking in Gangwon-Do
As we wrapped up our stay at High 1, our summer adventure didn’t end there. We continued on a road trip through Gangwon-do, taking on more trekking and camping with our dog.
You can read about that leg of our adventure in: Year-Round Trekking and Camping in Daegwallyeong, Gangwon-Do, South Korea.
On-Mountain Summer Activities
Besides trekking, High 1 offers a variety of on-mountain summer activities perfect for families and thrill-seekers. The gondola ride provides stunning views, and in summer, dogs are welcome—making it a great experience to share with them.
If you’re staying at a resort condo (Hill, Mountain, or Valley), the gondola is free.
At the top, you can enjoy a leisurely walk or take in the panoramic views. The base area has fun activities like the mountain coaster, which winds through forested slopes. There’s also archery, mini-golf, mountain golf cart tours, and more, ensuring something for everyone.
We settled for just walking around on a sunny day taking pictures of places we visited in during the winter.
High 1 Water World
We haven’t personally visited Water World, but it’s a popular attraction at High 1, especially for families. This large water park has pools, water slides, and a lazy river, offering a fun way to cool off in the summer heat.
Golf at High 1 Country Club
For golf enthusiasts, High 1 features the beautiful High 1 Country Club, with its well-maintained greens and mountain views. Even if you’re not a golfer, the scenery alone makes it worth visiting.
The 18-hole course caters to all skill levels and takes full advantage of the natural terrain, with fairways winding through dense forests and along mountain ridges.
Final Thoughts
High 1 Resort is a top contender for the best skiing experience in South Korea. With a larger mountain and more varied intermediate and expert terrain, it stands out compared to other resorts like Mona YongPyong.
While both High 1 and Mona YongPyong have unique strengths, High 1 gets a slight edge for its overall mountain experience and the diverse activities it offers, both on and off the slopes.
Whether you visit for winter sports or summer activities, High 1 Resort promises a memorable experience.
For a closer look at Mona YongPyong Resort, check out my in-depth guide on what makes it another fantastic option for skiing in South Korea.
Questions?
If you have questions, please join my free Facebook group and community. I’m happy to answer you there!
This winter, I’m also heading back to Hokkaido, Japan, so be sure to subscribe to my newsletter if you’re interested in updates on Asia’s powder mecca!
Colorado Saram Swag
If you enjoyed the content from this site and you feel like a kindred spirit, I invite you to check out my online store where I sell hats, hoodies, t-shirts and more. Though I reside in South Korea, I try to design swag that resonates with people who share the “Colorado” spirit.
Click on the pictures to check out the various color and size options available.
