High1 Resort in South Korea: Why I Keep Coming Back to This Mountain

High1 Resort South Korea is one of the country’s top picks for skiing and snowboarding. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from terrain tips to pet-friendly lodging, lift ticket deals, and how to get there with or without a car.

High1 Resort is one of my favorite places to ski in South Korea. I’ve explored most of the country’s major mountains, including Muju Deogyusan and Mona Yongpyong, and as a Colorado native who grew up skiing deep powder, I keep coming back to High1 for a reason.

Whether you’re chasing intermediate cruisers, mellow beginner slopes, or longer advanced runs with fewer crowds, High1 gives you more room to roam than most Korean resorts. It’s also the most pet-friendly option I’ve found. My border collie, Winnie, tags along on most of our winter trips, and yes, there’s even a dog-friendly, ski-in/ski-out condo at the base.

This guide covers everything you need to plan your trip to High1 Resort: how to get there, where to stay, what to ski, and how to save money on lift tickets, rentals, and lessons. You’ll also find advice for traveling with a dog, navigating Korea’s public transportation system, and making the most of your time on and off the slopes.

High1 is also worth visiting outside of ski season. In summer, the gondola, hiking trails, and pet-friendly stays make it a great mountain escape. You can read more about that here.

If you’re wondering what “Colorado Saram” means, you’re not alone. Saram (사람) is the Korean word for “person,” so the name translates to something like “Colorado person.” It’s also the name of this blog, where I share honest, experience-based travel advice from the perspective of an expat living in South Korea since 2007.

I was born and raised in the mountain town of Vail, Colorado, where I carried my love of skiing and the mountains with me when I moved to South Korea in 2007 to teach English and explore Asia with my own Colorado-lifestyle bend. These days, I spend winters visiting Korea’s top ski resorts and chasing powder across Asia. I’ve skied in Japan several times, including recent trips to Niseko and Rusutsu, and plan to visit Gulmarg, India in 2026.

My border collie, Winnie, comes along for all of my Korea trips and shows up in more blog photos than I do.

@coloradosaram

Does a person need K2 Pontoons in Korea? Perhaps not, but they were languishing in a garage in the States, so why not? The powder Gods welcomed them to the Land of the Morning Calm for their first spin.

♬ Imagine – Jack Johnson

High1 Resort is tucked deep into the mountains of Gangwon Province. Its remote setting is part of what makes it so peaceful, but it also means getting there takes a bit more planning compared to more accessible resorts like Yongpyong.

If you’re flying into Seoul, you’ve got several good options: drive yourself, take the train, ride the intercity bus, or book a package tour that includes transportation. I’ve done all of the above over the years, but now that I have a car, I usually drive myself.

Whether you’re bringing ski gear, traveling with kids, or just prefer some flexibility, here’s how to get to High1 Resort from anywhere in Korea.

Driving is hands-down the most convenient option if you’re not part of a package tour. That’s especially true if you’re bringing gear or staying outside the main resort hotels.

South Korea’s highways are in excellent condition, major signs are in English, and navigation apps like Naver Map and KakaoMap are reliable. If you’re comfortable driving in Korea, renting a car is a great way to simplify your travel day.

💡Need help renting a car in Korea?
Check out my foreigner’s guide to driving in South Korea, which includes tips on car rentals, navigation apps, and what documents you’ll need.

Approximate Drive Times:

• From Seoul: 3.5 to 4 hours via the Jungang Expressway
• From Daegu: 3.5 to 4 hours via the Jungbu Expressway
• From Busan: 4.5 to 5 hours via the Namhae Expressway

If you’re booking accommodations ahead of time, some hotels can offer advice on the best route and parking options. It’s always worth asking.

If you’d rather not drive, taking the train is a solid option. It does require a transfer, but it’s comfortable and relatively hassle-free.

From Seoul:
Take the ITX-Cheongchun train from Cheongnyangni Station to Jecheon Station. From there, transfer to a Mugunghwa (local) train to Gohan Station, which is the closest stop to High1 Resort. The full trip takes around 4 to 5 hours. Once in Gohan, you can grab a taxi or check with your hotel about shuttle options.

From Daegu or Busan:
Take a KTX train to Donghae Station, then transfer to a local train or bus heading to Gohan or Sabuk.

Trains can fill up during winter weekends, so it’s smart to book seats in advance, especially if you’re traveling with ski bags or arriving late in the day.

For budget travelers or those staying in Seoul, the intercity bus is a convenient and affordable option. You can catch the Purple Shuttle Bus, which runs directly from several major pickup points in the city:

• Hongdae (Hongik University Station)
• Myeongdong
• Dongdaemun

The bus ride takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic. There’s also a Purple Shuttle option from Incheon Airport, which is perfect for international visitors landing in the morning and heading straight to the resort.

During peak season, shuttle seats can sell out quickly. If this is your route, I recommend booking ahead through the Purple Shuttle site or book an inter-city bus via a tour operator like Klook.

If you’d prefer a more hands-off experience, High1 Resort partners with Klook to offer transportation and lodging packages. These include hotel stays, lift tickets, gear rentals, and roundtrip transfers from Seoul or the airport.

Prices vary depending on group size and package type, but deals are usually competitive compared to booking everything separately. I’ve used Klook for hotel-only bookings and had a smooth experience.

You can find current packages here:
👉 Klook High1 Resort Packages

If you’re traveling as a couple or with friends, this is one of the easiest ways to skip the logistics and just show up ready to ski.

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.

If you’re flying in from abroad, I recommend using an Airalo eSIM for reliable data while navigating to High1, checking trail maps, or using taxi apps.

I first tested it during a Vietnam trip and had fast, uninterrupted coverage in even remote areas. It worked so well, I used another Airalo eSIM during my ski trip to Japan and had a similarly smooth experience.

I’ve stayed at High1 Hill Condo three times now: twice in winter and once in summer. It remains my top pick for one big reason. The pet-friendly ski-in, ski-out wing is rare in Korea. My border collie, Winnie, comes with me on nearly every trip, and this is one of the only places that allows medium to large dogs. Most other hotels either don’t allow pets at all or have strict weight limits that rule out pups her size.

Hill Condo is also incredibly convenient. You’re just steps from the base gondola. The lockers are on-site, and the units are spacious enough for ski gear and a dog bed. Even in summer, it works well as a base for gondola rides and hiking. I’ve written more about that in my High1 Summer Guide.

Still, it’s not the only option. Below are a few other places I’ve researched and vetted that cater to different budgets and travel styles. All are bookable through my affiliate links on Agoda, Booking.com, and VRBO.

• True ski-in, ski-out access at the base of the gondola
• D Wing is fully pet-friendly and accepts larger dogs
• Spacious rooms with basic kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays
• Quick access to cafes, ski lockers, and gear rental
• Good year-round base for hiking and gondola access

Here are some good alternatives to consider, especially if Hill Condo is full or you’re traveling without a pet.

Hotel	Location & Notes	Booking Link
High1 Condominium	On-resort, condo-style units with kitchens. Walkable to lifts.	Book via Booking.com
High1 Grand Hotel (Main / Convention Towers)	Closest to amenities. Modern hotel feel with dining and shops nearby.	Book via Agoda
High1 Palace Hotel & CC	Roughly 1.5 miles from lifts. Slightly removed, good for quiet stays.	Book via Agoda
Mayhills Resort	Popular mid-range choice. Offers seasonal ski shuttle.	Book via Booking.com
Jeongseon Intoraon Hotel	Budget-friendly. A bit farther from the resort but a solid value.	Book via Agoda
Jeongseon VRBO Options	Vacation rentals with kitchens, group layouts, and local vibe.	Explore VRBO

• Properties at the base gondola save the most time and hassle
• Hill Condo is one of the only dog-friendly options that accepts larger dogs
• Some listings may show up as “High1 Condominium”; this is still Hill Condo
• Mayhills Resort is a solid budget choice if you’re okay with shuttle access
• Booking early is essential, especially around Korean holidays and school breaks
• Looking for a bundled deal? Klook offers a package that includes lodging, lift tickets, and rental gear all in one.

Below is the full trail map for High1 Resort, showing every trail, lift, base area, parking lot, and resort hotel.

You can download the map here or explore it interactively on High1’s official site, which also includes live webcams you can use year-round to preview different parts of the mountain.

High1 has 3 gondolas, 8 chairlifts, and 2 magic carpets serving its beginner areas. The gondola network is one of the resort’s standout features, giving you access to multiple zones without the need to shuttle between base areas.

If you make it over to the Valley Zone (which I recommend), just keep in mind that you’ll need to return to the Apollo lift or base gondola to cross back over the mountain. It’s easy to miss your connection late in the day, so plan your laps accordingly.

• Base elevation: 720 meters (2,362 feet)
• Summit elevation: 1,367 meters (4,485 feet)
• Vertical drop: Just over 640 meters

High1 is one of South Korea’s highest-elevation resorts, and it benefits from colder temperatures and decent snowmaking. I’ve had a few nice surprise powder mornings here, but conditions can turn icy on weekends if crowds build up. Snowmaking keeps most runs open into March, especially in the higher zones.

High1’s 18 trails cover a well-balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Whether you’re just learning or looking for longer laps with fewer crowds, there’s enough here to keep most skiers happy for at least a few days.

• Lifts: Jupiter, Zeus
• What to expect: Gentle, wide runs close to the base area with room to practice. A separate beginner zone makes this a great option for families or first-timers.

• Lifts: Hera, Apollo, Victoria
• What to expect: Smooth groomers and the 4.2 km Panorama Course, one of Korea’s longest runs. These areas can get a little busier, but the terrain is great for progression.

• Lifts: Victoria, Athena
• What to expect: Steeper pitches, tree-side drops, and fewer skiers. These runs don’t match the difficulty of Western resorts, but they’re solid by Korean standards — and usually less crowded.

You’ll find ski and snowboard rental shops both on the mountain and in nearby towns like Gohan and Sabuk. I usually recommend renting gear in town if you have the time. Prices are often lower, the equipment tends to be in better shape, and the shops are usually more flexible when it comes to bundling rentals with lift tickets or lessons. This can be especially helpful if you’re arriving by car and want to avoid the on-mountain rush.

At the resort itself, rental stations are located at each major base area. They’re convenient, especially if you’re taking the shuttle or using a package tour, but they can get busy on weekends and holidays. Sizing is first-come, first-served, so try to arrive early if you plan to rent at the resort.

Lessons are available in both Korean and English, and can be booked through High1’s official site, through local travel agencies, or directly at the ski school office in the main base area. My wife booked a private lesson during her first visit, and it made a big difference in her confidence and ability to enjoy the mountain. If it’s your first time skiing in Korea or you’re still learning the basics, I’d say it’s worth the investment.

@coloradosaram

From powdery slopes to memorable doggy moments, here’s a peek into our epic winter highlights at High 1 Resort in South Korea! ❄️⛷️✨ @Winnie #WinterInKorea #SkiKorea #TravelVibes #WinterHighlights #SnowAdventure #ExploreSouthKorea #KoreanWinter #SnowLovers #WinterGetaway #WanderlustKorea #AdventureTime #MountainEscape #SouthKoreaTravel #KoreanMountains #SkiSeason

♬ Mmmbop – Hanson

Heads Up: Helmets are required to access the lifts at High1. This came as quite a buzz kill to this old Gen X racer, but rules are rules so I ordered a cheap one online prior. If you don’t have your own, the resort has rentals and I’ve heard they’ll even let you use one for free if you seem surprised by the rule.

While some tour packages list helmets as an add-on for a small fee, I’ve also seen them offered for free at the resort. Either way, sizes can run out quickly during peak season, so it’s smart to rent early or pack your own if possible.

As a Colorado native, I know firsthand how expensive skiing can be back home. High1 offers a much more budget-friendly experience, especially if you’re smart about how and where you buy your tickets.

📝 Note: The prices below reflect the 2024/25 ski season and will be updated once High1 officially releases new pricing.

High1’s night skiing lets you enjoy the mountain long after the sun sets. The runs are well-lit and accessible with most lift pass types, but make sure to check if your specific ticket includes night access or if you’ll need a separate evening pass.

I don’t usually ski at night, but it’s a fun experience to try, especially if you’re staying overnight. Just be prepared since visibility isn’t quite the same, and it gets cold fast.

One of the best ways to save money skiing in South Korea is to buy your lift tickets from rental shops in nearby towns like Gohan-eup or Sabuk-eup. These shops often sell discounted tickets, bundled with rentals or lessons, especially if you’re paying by bank transfer.

It might feel informal, but this system is common and legitimate. Last season, I paid ₩48,000 and ₩51,000 for 7-hour tickets through a shop in Gohan (far less than the window price).

If you’re driving, it’s easy to stop in town before heading to the resort. If you’re arriving by public transportation, you might need to taxi to a rental shop to take advantage of these deals. In that case, a package tour may be a better option, especially if it includes gear rental, transportation, and a lift pass.

📌 Pro Tip: Ask your rental shop about lessons. My wife took a beginner lesson through one last season, and it worked out great, at a much better rate than the resort was offering.

The X5 Pass gives you access to five Korean resorts, including High1 and Mona Yongpyong. It’s a solid option if you’re planning multiple trips this winter, especially to Pyeongchang or other Gangwon-do resorts.

If you’re reading this later in the season, keep in mind that the X5 price usually jumps after the early-bird sale ends.

Last season, I spent time skiing in Japan, and this coming winter I’m heading to Gulmarg in Kashmir, India. I like to reserve the bulk of my ski budget for these bigger powder-focused trips and use Korea’s ski resorts for what they do best: easy access, good snowmaking, and keeping my legs in shape. With limited time and a realistic budget, High1’s flexible ticket options works well for me.

Unless you’re planning to ski more than six times in a season, buying individual lift tickets as you go is usually the better choice for most visitors and expats in Korea.

Dining at High1 is convenient, reasonably priced, and much better than you’d expect if you’re used to $25 burgers at American resorts. Most base areas and lift hubs have Korean-style cafeterias offering solid meal sets, snacks, and drinks.

My favorite spot for lunch is Valley Hub, a mid-mountain transfer point that offers a quieter atmosphere and a full cafeteria with good views. It’s usually less crowded than the base areas, and you can warm up here before heading across the mountain.

Menus feature classic Korean comfort food with a few Western-style options mixed in. I went with the chicken nuggets, which took me back to my old ski racing days in Colorado, however at High1, they come with a side of kimchi.

Other options you’ll commonly find across the mountain include:

• Kimchi jjigae (김치찌개) – spicy kimchi stew
• Donkatsu (돈까스) – breaded pork cutlet with rice
• Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – spicy rice cakes, great for a quick snack
• Omurice (오므라이스) – rice wrapped in an omelet, often served with gravy or ketchup
• Instant ramen – simple, hot, and hits the spot when you’re cold and tired

Snack kiosks also serve hotteok, coffee, beer, and soju near gondola stations and rest areas.

Each main base area (Mountain Hub, Valley Hub, and Hill Condo) has coin-operated lockers, heated rest areas, clean bathrooms, and seating areas for changing into gear. Lockers can fill up on weekends, so if you’re skiing with a group, try to grab one early.

There are also gear rental counters, convenience stores, and ticket windows near the base gondolas. Most staff speak at least basic English, and signage is available in both Korean and English.

The après-ski scene in Korea is low-key compared to what you’ll find in Europe or North America. You won’t see live music or busy bar patios, but you can still enjoy a beer or bowl of noodles after your last run.

Most visitors head back to their hotel or condo after skiing, then walk to a nearby restaurant or convenience store for dinner, drinks, or snacks. If you’re staying at Hill Condo, there’s a CU convenience store on-site with drinks, ramen, and basic supplies.

For a more social vibe, the nearby towns of Gohan-eup and Sabuk-eup have a handful of casual Korean BBQ joints, fried chicken spots, and local pubs. They’re just a short taxi ride away from most base accommodations.

While skiing is the main draw at High1 Resort, there are a few other ways to round out your trip. Whether you’re here for a full weekend or tagging along with friends who don’t ski, there are solid options off the slopes.

Kangwonland is the only casino in South Korea open to Korean citizens, and it’s located right next to High1 Resort. The complex includes table games, slot machines, restaurants, and a hotel. I’m not much of a gambler myself, but it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for something to do after the lifts close. Just don’t expect much of an après-ski scene here.

The nearby towns of Gohan-eup and Sabuk-eup offer a more local dining scene. You’ll find Korean BBQ restaurants, fried chicken joints, and casual spots serving jeon (savory pancakes) and makgeolli (rice wine). If you’re staying for a few nights, it’s worth heading down the hill for dinner instead of sticking to resort food every night.

There are also convenience stores, ski rental shops, and cafes here. Most places are just a 5–10 minute drive from the resort and easily reachable by taxi.

High1 isn’t just a winter destination. During the warmer months, the area turns into a hiking, mountain biking, and wellness retreat. There’s gondola access, wildflower trails, and some of the best summer scenery I’ve found in this part of Korea.

👉 Read my full guide to High1 Resort in summer

Yongpyong Resort (now branded as Mona Yongpyong) is the only other mountain in Korea that comes close in my opinion, especially for advanced terrain. But even though Yongpyong may edge it out for steeper expert runs, I find myself returning to High1 more often thanks to the smoother mountain flow and better variety across lifts.

Dog-friendliness is also a major plus. My border collie, Winnie, joins me on most Korea ski trips, and High1’s ski-in/ski-out Hill Condo makes that possible. You’ll find more on lodging in the accommodations section above.

The biggest downside is accessibility. High1 is slightly harder to reach than ski areas near Pyeongchang. If I didn’t have a car, I might lean toward something more convenient, but if you can make the journey, High1 is absolutely worth the effort.

👉 Curious how Yongpyong compares? Check out my full Mona Yongpyong Resort guide.

Not sure where to stay, how to compare lift passes, or whether to book a package? I offer free one-on-one trip planning support for independent travelers.

This isn’t a travel agency. It’s just me. I’ve skied all over Korea, lived here since 2007, and I know what works. I’m here to help you sort through logistics and make smarter decisions based on real experience.

👉 Request free ski trip help

I’ve been exploring Asia’s mountains for over 15 years and love helping fellow skiers, riders, and outdoor lovers get the most out of their time on the snow.

High1 isn’t just a winter destination. In the warmer months, the resort transforms into a lush high-altitude getaway with panoramic gondola rides, hiking trails, and family-friendly spots like High1 Water World.

During our summer visit, we stayed once again at the pet-friendly Hill Condo and explored scenic trails right from the doorstep. Whether you’re into light trekking or just want to escape the city, High1 makes a great summer base.

👉 Want the full story? Check out my summer guide to High1 Resort here.

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