Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hiking
Taiwan's landscape is striking, and with multiple bio-geographical zones ranging from
tropical to alpine, the flora and fauna is ever changing. It's possible to hike year-round on
a well-developed trail network from sea level to 3952m. You don't need a guide for most
hikes, and it's possible to go for days without seeing others. National park trails feature
inexpensive cabins with water and bedding (but usually no food).
National Parks & Other Hiking Venues
Over 50% of Taiwan is mountainous and heavily forested, and about 20% is protected
land divided between national parks, forest recreation areas, reserves and various state
forests.
National parks and forest recreation areas (FRAs) have excellent quality trails. Within
the boundaries of each you'll find a visitor information centre and often a small village
with basic accommodation and food. Paved trails lead to scenic spots, while unspoiled
areas with natural paths may be further in the park. Forestry reserves may have good
trails but usually offer few facilities for hikers.
Many trails are also maintained at the regional level and offer excellent day and some-
times overnight hikes. They are usually sign-posted in English and Chinese.
Planning Your Hike
You can hike year-round, but the best weather is from September to December and
March to May. Midweek is best for popular trails but many are never busy. July to
August are also good months for high-altitude hikes if the weather cooperates (the sun
can be fierce), as there are fewer hikers about. Winter hiking above the snowline is pos-
sible, though Yushan National Park requires that a team leader be certified for winter hik-
ing. Sheipa National Park simply asks to see that hikers are adequately prepared (such as
having crampons and an ice pick).
Weather
Afternoon fogs are common year-round, as are thunderstorms in summer. Typhoons af-
fect the island from early summer to late autumn, while monsoon rains batter the island
in May and June. Obviously do not go out hiking during storms or typhoons, but also
avoid going to the mountains in the few days after as landslides, swollen rivers and
streams can wash out roads and trails.
Always be prepared for a change of weather and for the weather in the mountains to be
different from the city.
