Taiwan’s most spectacular hiking trails

The 10.3km Zhuilu Old Trail traverses Taroko National Park, and is one of the most easily-accessible hiking trails in Taiwan.

The trail leads hikers along the only remaining section of the old Hehuan Mountain Road that is still intact. At its most challenging part, it skirts along the side of the 1,100m-high Zhuilu Cliff, where you can walk along a ledge that is just 60cm wide at its narrowest point. The trail boasts bird’s-eye views of the Liwu River, which lies a vertigo-inducing 500m below. A number of hikers have been known to abandon their plans at the sight of where they are going!

Those looking for a gentler version of the Zhuilu Old Trail might want to consider the Lushui-Holiu Trail, which is just 2km long and gives the same spectacular views of the gorge, without the extreme cliff edges!

The Zhuilu Old Trail was reopened in 2008 on a permit-basis only. Please note that applications for the permit must be made at least a week in advance. See the Taroko National Park website for details.

The Yushan Peaks Trail is incredibly popular with visitors to Taiwan as it is suitable for anyone of average fitness. The route threads through Yushan National Park and leads to the main Yushan Peak (Jade Mountain).

On the first day of the trail to the main Yushan Peak, you’ll encounter views of the Cishan River, and the myriad flora that Taiwan boasts – including rare hemlock forests and collections of dwarf bamboo.

After an early start on the second day (essential if you want to reach the summit for sunrise), you’ll find that as the altitude increases, forests are replaced by fields of rhododendron and juniper, as well as lichens and hardy plants at the peak. From here, you can continue by foot on to the Yushan West, North and South peaks.

You don’t need a guide for this trail, but you must pick up a pass from the Paiyun Visitor Centrebefore you set off.


Main image: Suspension footbridge crossing Taroko Gorge National Park (Shutterstock)