Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
few hours' long while others go on for days. All three major cities - Taipei, Kaohsiung
and Taichung - have mountains and trails either within the city limits or just outside.
Permits are not needed for most low-altitude hikes, except for areas that restrict the
number of hikers who can enter per day. For these areas you may need to register at a po-
lice checkpoint on the way into the area - this is a simple process but you'll need a pass-
port.
Some great places to hike include Wulai, Maokong, the Pingxi Branch Rail Line, Shit-
ing, and Yangmingshan National Park in the north; and Taroko National Park in the east.
What to Pack
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Clothes made of lightweight moisture-wicking material are best. Gortex is not much use
at lower altitudes because of the humidity and heat (a small umbrella is more useful if it
rains).
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Running shoes are better on jungle trails and ridge walks because of their superior grip.
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Plenty of water (at least 3L to 4L if hiking in the warmer months).
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Torch (flashlight; trails are notorious for taking longer than you think).
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Walking stick. Useful for pushing back brush, climbing steep sections of trail and pos-
sible snake protection.
Trail Conditions
Trail conditions vary greatly, from a foot-wide slice through dense jungle to a 2m-wide
path with suspension bridges over streams that was once used as a transport route. Most
trails have signposts and map boards, but if you encounter overgrown sections it's best to
turn back. Few lower-altitude trails are flat for any distance: many, in fact, are so steep
that ropes or ladders (always pre-existing) are needed to climb certain sections.
While it is common in most parts of the world to hike 3km to 4km an hour, on
Taiwan's trails 1km an hour progress is not unusual because of the extremely steep con-
ditions.
Water
On some trails you can use small streams and springs as a water source (treat before
drinking), but it is advisable to bring what you need for the day.
