The Scenic Road: Masik Pass
Masik Pass is home to the Masikryong Ski Resort, a modern, government-built tourist facility. The paved access road offers a rare example of a well-maintained, scenic mountain route cutting through the central part of the peninsula.
Where is the Masik Pass Road?
Masik Pass is located in Kangwon Province, approximately 20 km outside of the port city of Wonsan on the East Coast. It is a major mountain crossing that travelers often use to get from the capital region in the west to the east coast.
What is special about this mountain road?
Unlike the Paektu road which is remote, the Masik Pass is special because it is a relatively modern and tourist-focused mountain route. It offers the chance to drive winding, paved roads through the high part of the Masikryong range, which features steep slopes and significant elevation changes. Its proximity to a high-profile resort means it is likely one of the best-maintained mountain roads in the country.
What is the elevation of Masik Pass?
The nearby Taehwa Peak, which hosts the summit of the ski resort, is 1,360 m (4,460 ft). The road itself will cross the pass at a slightly lower elevation, placing it far below Paektu, but still representing a significant mountain crossing.
How long does it take to drive to Masik Pass?
While the length of the immediate pass road is short, the drive from the capital, Pyongyang, to Masik Pass typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, covering a substantial distance across the peninsula on motorways that may have inconsistent surfaces, making the entire journey a long and complex endeavor.
Pic: Jes Tuan