Bears Town Ski Resort: A Winter Wonderland Near Seoul
Winter in Korea is a magical season, offering pristine snow-covered landscapes, crisp fresh air, and a host of seasonal activities to enjoy. If you’re spending winter in Seoul, there’s no shortage of fun things to do, from wandering through the festive streets of Myeongdong, ice skating at Seoul Plaza, or hiking the snow-covered trails of Bukhansan National Park. But what if you want to venture beyond the city for an adventure in the mountains?
Just an hour from Seoul, Bears Town Ski Resort in Pocheon is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re an experienced skier, a complete beginner, or just someone looking for a winter escape in Korea, this resort has everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
Seoul Turns into a Winter Wonderland – And So Can Your Trip!
As winter blankets Seoul in frost and holiday decorations, the city takes on a special charm. Cheonggyecheon Stream lights up with dazzling displays, street vendors sell steaming hot tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes), and visitors flock to scenic spots like Namsan Tower for breathtaking winter views.
Klook.comHowever, if you’re craving a real winter sports experience, heading to Bears Town Ski Resort is an easy option. Its proximity to Seoul, well-maintained ski slopes, and family-friendly amenities make it a top choice for locals and travelers. Many shuttle buses leave daily from Gangnam, Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, and other major areas, offering a direct, stress-free ride to the resort.
For those who love a little adventure along the way, making a stop at Songchu, a midway hub known for its local restaurants and ski rental shops, can add to the experience. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite or rent ski gear at a discount before reaching the slopes.
What Makes Bears Town Ski Resort Special?
Bears Town Ski Resort stands out as one of Korea’s premier winter sports destinations, offering a mix of convenience, variety, and stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re visiting for skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the winter atmosphere, here’s why it’s worth the trip:
Variety of Ski Slopes for All Levels
Bears Town features 11 well-designed slopes, catering to skiers of all skill levels. Beginners will love the wide, gentle slopes, perfect for learning basic techniques and gaining confidence. Intermediate and advanced skiers can take on steeper slopes with thrilling descents and sharp turns, making every run an exciting challenge.
No matter your skill level, the diverse slopes ensure a fun and rewarding experience, whether you’re skiing solo, with family, or friends.
Just an Hour from Seoul – The Perfect Day Trip
One of Bears Town’s biggest advantages is how close it is to Seoul. In just an hour, you can go from sipping coffee in Gangnam to gliding down snow-covered slopes. This convenience makes it a top choice for those who don’t have time for a long ski vacation but still want to experience winter sports in Korea.
Whether you drive, take a shuttle, or use public transport, Bears Town is one of the easiest ski resorts to reach from Seoul.
Night Skiing – A Magical Experience Under the Stars
For those who love skiing after dark, Bears Town offers night skiing, where you can experience illuminated slopes under a starry sky. This unique atmosphere makes skiing even more thrilling, perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who prefers fewer crowds.
Since night ski tickets are cheaper than daytime passes, this is also a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money while enjoying an extended skiing session.
A Family-Friendly Resort with Something for Everyone
Families will love Bears Town’s kid-friendly amenities, including a dedicated snow play area and beginner ski programs for young learners. Parents can relax while their children safely enjoy the snow, making it a stress-free experience for the whole family.
Even if you’re not into skiing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at the resort, from sledding and snow hiking to relaxing at the cozy lodge with a warm drink.
Nestled in Pocheon’s scenic mountains like mount unaksan , Bears Town offers spectacular views of the snow-covered landscape. From the top of the slopes, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views, making it one of the most picturesque ski resorts in Korea.
For nature lovers, Bears Town is the perfect blend of adventure and beauty, providing an experience beyond just winter sports.
Affordable Rentals and Equipment Services at Bears Town Ski Resort
If you don’t have your own ski gear, no worries! Bears Town Ski Resort offers multiple rental options, both onsite and offsite, allowing you to choose between convenience or affordability.
Onsite Rental Services (At Bears Town Resort)
The resort has a fully equipped rental shop, where you can rent skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, gloves, and goggles. Prices are competitive, but generally higher than offsite rental shops.
- Skis or Snowboard (Full Set) → ₩40,000 (~$30 USD) per day
- Helmet → ₩10,000 (~$7.50 USD) per day
- Gloves & Goggles → Available for purchase or rental onsite
Renting at Bears Town is convenient, but if you’re looking to save money, offsite rentals are a better option.
Offsite Rental Shops (Cheaper Alternative at Songchu)
A cheaper way to rent gear is stopping at Songchu, a popular rental hub located 1-2 bus stops before Bears Town. Here, you’ll find dozens of ski rental shops offering gear at lower prices than the resort.
- Skis or Snowboard (Full Set) → ₩25,000–₩30,000 (~$20–$25 USD) per day
- Rental Packages → Some shops offer discounted bundles that include gear, helmets, and lift tickets, saving you up to 30%.
If you don’t mind carrying your gear for a short distance, renting from Songchu is a smart way to cut costs.
Online Rentals – Book in Advance for Discounts
For extra convenience, you can reserve ski rentals online before your trip. Websites like Klook and GetYourGuide offer pre-booked rental options with discounted rates and even transportation+gear bundles.
Pro Tips for Renting Gear:
- Book online in advance to get discounts.
- Compare prices between onsite and offsite shops to find the best deal.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long lines at rental shops.
Activities at Bears Town Ski Resort – More Than Just Skiing
Bears Town Ski Resort isn’t just for skiing and snowboarding—it’s a complete winter adventure destination. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there are plenty of fun activities beyond the slopes.
Snow Sledding – Perfect for Families and Beginners
If skiing feels intimidating or you’re traveling with kids, snow sledding is a fun and easy alternative. The sledding area at Bears Town is safe, well-maintained, and perfect for those who want to enjoy the snow without needing ski skills. Families with young children will especially love this activity, as it provides a thrilling yet beginner-friendly winter experience.
Night Skiing – A Unique Experience Under the Stars
For those who want to avoid the daytime crowds and experience the slopes in a magical nighttime atmosphere, night skiing is highly recommended. Bears Town’s slopes are well-lit and quieter in the evenings, creating a serene and enjoyable environment for both beginners and experienced skiers.
The Night Skiing session runs from 18:30 to 24:00, while the All-Night Ticket allows skiing from midnight until 4 AM. Since these tickets are cheaper than daytime passes, night skiing is also a great budget-friendly option.
Relaxing at the Lodge – Enjoy a Cozy Winter Retreat
Not in the mood for skiing? Bears Town Ski Resort has a spacious and comfortable lodge, perfect for relaxing. You can warm up with a cup of coffee or try traditional Korean winter foods like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), or hotteok (sweet pancakes). The cozy indoor seating areas provide the perfect setting to unwind, read a book, or enjoy the view of the snow-covered slopes.
Exploring Nearby Attractions – Extend Your Adventure
If you’re planning a weekend trip, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions around Bears Town. The Pocheon region is known for its beautiful landscapes, cultural sites, and relaxing retreats.
- Herb Island – A unique botanical garden featuring illuminated winter displays, perfect for a romantic stroll after skiing.
- Sanjeong Lake – A stunning frozen lake in winter, ideal for photos, light hiking, and quiet relaxation.
- Pocheon Art Valley – A former quarry transformed into a beautiful park with dramatic rock formations and scenic views.
Adding a visit to one of these locations can turn your ski trip into a well-rounded winter getaway.
When to Visit Bears Town Ski Resort and What to Pack
Best Time to Visit Bears Town Ski Resort
The ski season at Bears Town runs from early December to late February, with January typically offering the best snow conditions. If you prefer fewer crowds, visiting on weekdays or early in the season (mid-December) is ideal.
For those who enjoy winter festivals in Korea, visiting in December and January allows you to combine your ski trip with experiences like the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival or Seoul’s Christmas Light Festivals.
What to Pack for Bears Town Ski Resort
Packing properly will ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout your trip. Here’s a checklist:
- Clothing – Thermal base layers, a waterproof ski jacket and pants, warm gloves, a hat, and thick socks.
- Accessories – Ski goggles or sunglasses, sunscreen (yes, you can get sunburned in the snow!), and lip balm to prevent dryness.
- Essentials – A reusable water bottle, energy snacks, and a small backpack to store extra layers.
- Ski Gear – If you have your own equipment, bring it along to save on rental costs. Otherwise, rentals are available onsite and offsite.
For those who don’t have ski clothes, gear rental platforms like Klook or Viator also offer ski outfit rental services, allowing you to rent jackets, pants, gloves, and goggles for a lower price than buying them new.
How to Get to Bears Town Ski Resort from Seoul
Getting to Bears Town Ski Resort is simple, with several convenient transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Shuttle Bus Service – The Easiest and Most Convenient Option
The shuttle bus is the most hassle-free way to reach Bears Town Ski Resort. These buses run daily from major locations in Seoul, including Gangnam Station, Myeongdong, Jamsil Station, and Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (near Gangbyeon Station, Line 2).
The journey takes between 50 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your departure point and traffic conditions. A round-trip shuttle ticket costs approximately ₩9,000 (~$7 USD).
How to Book a Shuttle Ticket:
- Advance reservation is required (must be booked by 5 PM the day before travel).
- Online booking platforms like Klook and Trazy often offer shuttle+lift ticket packages at discounted rates.
- If you have payment issues, you can contact shuttle operators via KakaoTalk, and some companies allow cash payment upon arrival.
This option is ideal for tourists, as it removes the stress of navigating public transport or driving in winter conditions.
Public Transport – The Budget-Friendly Choice
For those looking to save money, public transport is an option, though it takes longer than the shuttle bus.
- Take the Subway – Travel to Gangbyeon Station (Line 2) or Gwangnaru Station (Line 5). From Gangbyeon, exit through Exit 4 and walk about 50 meters to find Bus Stop A.
- Board Bus #11 – This bus runs hourly from 5 AM to 11 PM. The fare is ₩2,000 (~$1.50 USD) with a T-money card, and you receive a discounted fare if transferring from the subway. Bus no #33 if you are travelling from uijongbu area..
- Get Off at Bears Town Stop – The ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and the stop will be announced as “Bears Town (배어스타운)”.
- Walk to the Resort – From the bus stop, it’s about a 15-minute walk. Simply keep the main road on your left, walk past several ski rental shops, and cross the small bridge over the creek to reach the resort entrance.
This is the cheapest way to get to Bears Town, but it requires more time and effort compared to the shuttle bus.
Driving – Best for Families or Groups
If you prefer flexibility, driving to Bears Town is a great option. The route follows the Seoul Ring Expressway (Route 100) toward Pocheon, and the drive takes about 1 hour from central Seoul. Navigation apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map are useful for accurate directions.
Parking at Bears Town is free for day visitors, but during peak season, it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot. Driving also gives you the chance to explore nearby attractions like Herb Island or Sanjeong Lake.
Day Tours – Hassle-Free and Ideal for Beginners
If you’re a first-time skier or prefer an all-inclusive experience, day tours are an excellent option. Many tour operators provide packages that include round-trip transportation, rental gear, lift tickets, and lessons.
- Where to Book? Klook, Trazy, and Viator offer fully customizable day tours to Bears Town Ski Resort, ranging from ₩80,000 to ₩120,000 (~$60–$100 USD) per person.
- Best for Beginners – If you don’t want to worry about arranging transportation, renting gear, or booking lessons separately, this is the most stress-free option.
Bears Town Ski Resort Lift Tickets and Operating Hours
Planning your ski trip to Bears Town Ski Resort? Understanding the lift ticket prices and operating hours will help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re going for a short morning session, an all-day adventure, or an exciting night-skiing experience, Bears Town has ticket options to fit every schedule and budget.
Lift Ticket Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
Bears Town offers various ticket options based on the time of day you want to ski. Below is a breakdown of ticket prices for both adults and children:
- Full-Day Ticket (09:00 – 17:00) → ₩75,000 (adults), ₩55,000 (children)
- AM Day Ticket (09:00 – 13:00) → ₩59,000 (adults), ₩45,000 (children)
- PM Day Ticket (12:30 – 17:00) → ₩65,000 (adults), ₩49,000 (children)
- PM & Night Ticket (12:30 – 22:00) → ₩75,000 (adults), ₩55,000 (children)
- Night Ticket (18:30 – 24:00) → ₩65,000 (adults), ₩49,000 (children)
- All-Night Ticket (24:00 – 04:00) → ₩59,000 (adults), ₩44,000 (children)
- One-Time Ticket (Single Lift Ride) → ₩12,000 (adults), ₩10,000 (children)
- Moving Walk Ticket (For Beginners) → ₩15,000 (weekdays), ₩12,000 (weekends)
These flexible ticket options allow you to choose based on your availability and budget. If you only have a few hours, the AM Day or Night Ticket is a great way to save money while still getting plenty of time on the slopes.
For those who love skiing after dark, the PM & Night Ticket (12:30 – 22:00) is the best deal, allowing you almost 10 hours on the slopes.
Operating Hours and Best Time to Visit
Bears Town Ski Resort operates on multiple time slots, making it one of the most flexible resorts in Korea. Here’s how their schedule works:
- AM Day Skiing → 09:00 – 13:00
- PM Day Skiing → 12:30 – 17:00
- Full-Day Skiing → 09:00 – 17:00
- Night Skiing → 18:30 – 24:00
- All-Night Skiing → 24:00 – 04:00
- Slope Grooming Break → 17:00 – 18:30 (to maintain snow quality)
The best time to visit Bears Town depends on your preference:
- For the best snow conditions, visit in January when snowfall is at its peak.
- For fewer crowds, visit on weekdays or opt for night skiing when the slopes are quieter.
- For a budget-friendly option, night skiing tickets offer cheaper rates than daytime passes.
Where to Buy Lift Tickets and How to Get Discounts
Lift tickets can be purchased onsite at the Bears Town ticket office, but to save money, booking online is a better option. Websites like Klook, Viator, and Trazy often offer discounted packages that include lift passes, rentals, and even shuttle transportation.
If you’re taking the shuttle bus from Seoul, some travel agencies offer package deals that combine round-trip transportation, lift tickets, and rental gear at a lower price than buying separately.
Pro Tips for Saving on Lift Tickets:
- Book online in advance to get early-bird discounts.
- Check for bundle deals that include rentals and transportation.
- Visit on weekdays for better prices and fewer crowds.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Bears Town Ski Resort
Here are the most commonly asked questions about Bears Town Ski Resort to help you plan your trip hassle-free.
Onsite rentals start at ₩40,000 (~$30 USD) for a full ski or snowboard set. Helmets cost ₩10,000 (~$7.50 USD), and gloves or goggles are available for rent or purchase. For cheaper rental options, check out offsite rental shops at Songchu, which offer gear starting at ₩25,000 (~$20 USD) per day.
Bears Town is located in Pocheon, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Seoul. By shuttle bus or car, it takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic. Public transport takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Yes! Booking online through platforms like Klook, Viator, and GetYourGuide can save you money. Some sites offer discounted lift passes bundled with ski rentals or transportation.
If you’re not into skiing, you can still enjoy snow sledding, snow hiking, or just relaxing at the cozy lodge. Nearby attractions like Herb Island, Sanjeong Lake, and Pocheon Art Valley are also worth visiting.
Absolutely! Night skiing at Bears Town is cheaper, less crowded, and has a magical atmosphere under the illuminated slopes. If you don’t mind the cold, it’s a great experience!
Bears Town Ski Resort typically operates from early December to late February, with the best snow conditions in January.
Yes, Bears Town offers onsite lodges and condos. Alternatively, you can stay in Pocheon or Seoul, both of which have a range of hotels and guesthouses.
The shuttle bus is the easiest option, running from Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Jamsil for ₩9,000 round trip. Public buses and private cars are also good choices.
It’s highly recommended, especially on weekends or peak season. Booking through Klook or GetYourGuide allows you to secure your spot and often includes rental discounts.
Yes! If you’re traveling with a group, you may be eligible for discounted lift tickets, rentals, or even shuttle packages. Some travel agencies offer group deals for ski tours.
Final Thoughts – Why Bears Town Ski Resort is a Must-Visit
With its variety of slopes, night skiing options, and budget-friendly tickets, Bears Town Ski Resort is one of the best winter destinations near Seoul. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, this resort has something for everyone.
If you’re planning your trip, booking in advance for lift tickets, rentals, and shuttle transportation will help you save money and make your trip stress-free.
