Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking natural wonders, perfect for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. With its towering marble cliffs, lush mountains, and scenic trails, it’s a place that feels like nature’s grand masterpiece. Whether you’re here for a quick day trip or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of stunning views and exciting hikes to explore.
The park’s iconic Taroko Gorge was formed over 200 million years ago when limestone deposits underwent immense pressure and transformed into marble. Over time, the Liwu River carved through the rock, creating the dramatic cliffs and deep canyons we see today. One of the coolest spots is Swallow Grotto, where water erosion has left behind honeycomb-like holes in the rock walls—a fascinating reminder that Taroko’s landscape is constantly changing.
Come and discover the breathtaking sights of Taroko and explore the best ways to experience it!
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Table of Contents
Overview: Mountain, River, and Coastal Landscapes
Mountain Landscapes
- Taroko Gorge – The most famous part of the park, featuring dramatic marble cliffs and deep canyons carved by the Liwu River over millions of years.
- Tianxiang Area – A small village offering accommodations, dining, and access to multiple trails and temples.
- Hehuanshan – A mountainous region on the park’s western edge, ideal for high-altitude hiking and breathtaking sunrise views.
River and Coastal Views
- Qingshui Cliffs – A stunning coastal section where towering cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean, formed by the collision of the Philippine and Eurasian tectonic plates.
- Shakadang River – A crystal-clear river with blue waters, surrounded by stunning rock formations, making it a perfect spot for photography.
- Chongde Station
Essential Tips for Visiting Taroko National Park
Taroko has many famous attractions like Swallow Grotto, Tunnel of Nine Turns, and Eternal Spring Shrine. Unfortunately, due to the earthquake on April 3, 2024, some attractions and trails are temporarily closed because of unstable mountains, rockfall risks, and potential mudslides. Many popular attractions remain closed, including most tourist hotspots. For the latest information on trail openings, check the official website.
Self-driving is a great option for touring Hualien, especially since public buses are infrequent and taxis can be hard to find in remote areas. Driving along the coastline gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, making it well worth considering. However, if you’re self-driving, please note that the main road section from Taroko Arch to Tianxiang (about 19km) – which is also the necessary route from the east to Hehuanshan – remains extremely unstable despite repair work. It’s best to avoid this section if possible.
Taroko Gorge Highlights
Eternal Spring Shrine (Changchun Shrine) (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
Eternal Spring Shrine is one of Taroko’s most iconic landmarks, built to honor the workers who lost their lives constructing the Central Cross-Island Highway. The temple is beautifully set against a lush mountainside, with a natural spring flowing gracefully beneath it, creating a serene and picturesque scene. A short hike leads to the shrine, offering visitors a peaceful spot to reflect while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou Trail) (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
Swallow Grotto is a must-visit for those exploring Taroko Gorge. This section of the park features towering marble cliffs with naturally sculpted honeycomb rock formations, shaped by years of erosion. The narrow tunnels along the trail provide breathtaking views of the deep canyon below, and if you’re lucky, you might spot swallows darting through the caves—hence the name! Be sure to wear a helmet, as falling rocks can be a concern in this area.
Baiyang Trail & Water Curtain Cave (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
Baiyang Trail is a scenic and relatively easy hike that takes you through tunnels and along a lush gorge, ending at the mesmerizing Water Curtain Cave. Inside the cave, water seeps through the rock ceiling, creating a natural “waterfall” that flows from above. It’s an incredible sight, but be prepared to get wet—bringing a raincoat or waterproof gear is highly recommended!
Zhuilu Old Trail (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
For those seeking adventure, the Zhuilu Old Trail is the ultimate challenge in Taroko. This steep and narrow cliffside path offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the gorge below, making it one of the most thrilling hikes in Taiwan. Due to its difficulty and safety concerns, a permit is required to access the trail, but for those who make the climb, the experience is truly unforgettable.
Tianxiang
Tianxiang is a charming village nestled within Taroko National Park, making it a great base for exploring nearby trails and temples. One of its highlights is Xiangde Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple perched on a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Tianxiang Recreation Area provides a relaxing spot to unwind, with pavilions, gardens, and scenic viewpoints, perfect for soaking in the beauty of Taroko.
Buluowan Suspension Bridge (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
The Buluowan Moon Bridge is the longest and highest suspension bridge in Taroko Park, stretching about 196 meters with a height of about 152 meters from the valley floor. Standing on the bridge, you can look down at the winding, crystal-clear stream below, while steep mountains rise on both sides, creating a magnificent and breathtaking view. Additionally, the bridge is about 2.5 meters wide with a stable and flat design, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing all types of visitors to enjoy this stunning scenery.
Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
The Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail is one of the most spectacular trails in Taroko Park. The entire path is about 700 meters long, winding along mountain tunnels with uniquely beautiful scenery. As you stroll along the path, you can listen to the rushing streams at the water scenery trail, admire unique geological features at the “Fish Leaping Dragon Gate” spot, and enjoy the canyon views at the “Nine Turns Coiling Dragon” section where wide and narrow gorges converge.
But how should we connect these attractions? There are trails in the gorge section for visitors to hike within the park. If you’re not looking for an in-depth exploration, walking along these trails is the most suitable way for general tourists to experience the park. However, this can be tiring and you might see fewer attractions.
A more relaxed option is to purchase a one-day bus tour ticket. These buses drop visitors off at famous attractions, and after exploring, you can board the next bus to continue to the next spot. Since Taroko has many attractions, different bus routes vary, so pay attention to whether the route includes the places you want to visit when purchasing tickets.
Coastal and River Attractions
Qingshui Cliffs
Qingshui Cliffs is one of the most magnificent landscapes on Taiwan’s east coast. The cliffs rise over 1,000 meters, with mountains plunging directly into the Pacific Ocean, creating the most beautiful section of the Suhua Highway. What makes it special is how two elements that are normally far apart – high mountains and the open sea – are right next to each other, with steep cliffs on one side and the vast ocean on the other, creating a spectacular and breathtaking scene.
The Qingshui Cliff viewing platform isn’t very large, and if you’re just there to enjoy the view, it takes about 15-20 minutes to see everything. Most group tours only stop at this viewing platform, while some also arrange visits to nearby Chongde Station to view the Qingshui Cliffs from afar. If you’re self-driving, you can enjoy the beautiful sea-and-sky scenery all along the Suhua Highway.
Shakadang Trail (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
Shakadang Trail is one of the most scenic and beginner-friendly hikes in Taroko National Park. Following the crystal-clear Shakadang River, this relatively easy trail offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters, lush greenery, and uniquely layered rock formations. The path is mostly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely walk while admiring the serene landscape. Along the way, you’ll also find small indigenous food stalls where you can try local snacks.
Cimu Bridge
Cimu Bridge is a beautifully designed red bridge that stands out against the rugged marble cliffs of Taroko Gorge. Built as a gift from Chiang Kai-shek to his wife, this bridge features a pavilion with sweeping views of the deep canyon below. The surrounding area is filled with fascinating rock formations, including a famous boulder that resembles a frog. It’s a great stop for photos and a quiet moment to take in the grandeur of Taroko’s landscape.
Chongde
Chongde is a small village in Xiulin Township, Hualien County, located right by the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by magnificent mountains with a peaceful and beautiful coastline. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s an excellent place to watch the sunrise, enjoy water activities (like SUP paddleboarding and kayaking), go camping, or cycling.
Chongde Trail (Temporarily closed due to earthquake)
Chongde Trail is a hiking route connecting the Chongde area, offering beautiful scenery with views overlooking Chongde Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The trail is densely vegetated, perfect for nature lovers. Some sections are quite steep, so it’s recommended to wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Chongde Station
Chongde Station is a small former Taiwan Railway station that used to serve as a relay station on the Taroko Line but has stopped passenger services and is now a historical site. Although trains no longer stop here, the station and its surroundings still retain a nostalgic atmosphere, making it suitable for photography or a brief visit to experience the tranquil rural ambiance.
While Chongde Station might just be a small stop on the Taiwan Railway line, the Chongde Bay behind it is an outdoor activity paradise! With crystal clear blue water, the spectacular Qingshui Cliffs, and a peaceful beach, it’s a place you’ll fall in love with instantly.
At Chongde Bay, you can try the super popular SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), standing on the water while paddling and enjoying the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and towering cliff walls – truly an unforgettable experience! If you prefer something more exciting, kayaking is also a great choice, paddling to the base of the cliffs to feel the awe-inspiring power of nature. Additionally, this is an excellent camping spot with almost zero light pollution, allowing you to lie outside your tent at night to stargaze while falling asleep to the sound of waves – super chill!
Whether you want to challenge yourself with water sports or simply relax and enjoy the sea view, Chongde is a little hidden gem worth stopping for!
Independent travelers can plan a visit to nearby Chongde Station, where Chongde Pebble Beach offers water activities and ATV beach rides. If time allows, you can camp overnight, with local vendors providing camping equipment rental services, so you don’t need to bring your own gear.
- ATV Adventure: Qing Shui Cliff ATV Adventure
- Canoe&SUP: Qing Shui Cliff Canoe&SUP
- SUP Paddling: Qing Shui SUP Paddling
- Camping: Qing Shui Cliff Camping
Hiking in Taroko: Beginner to Advanced Trails
Easy & Family-Friendly Hikes
- Lushui Trail – A short yet scenic walk offering breathtaking views of Taroko Gorge.
- Shakadang Trail – A flat and easy hike along a beautiful river, perfect for beginners.
- Baiyang Trail – A well-maintained trail leading to Water Curtain Cave, suitable for families.
Intermediate to Challenging Hikes
Of Taiwan’s “Baiyue” (Taiwan’s 100 highest mountains), 27 are located within Taroko National Park, including the Hehuanshan range, Mt. Qilai, and Nanhu Mountain, with difficulty levels ranging from beginner to extreme challenge.
- Nanhu Mountain (3,742m) is Taiwan’s fifth-highest peak, requiring a multi-day journey, and is known as the “King of Mountains.”
- Mt. Central Peak (3,705m) is known as the “Ultimate Baiyue” due to its steep terrain and climbing difficulty. Mt. Qilai Main Peak (3,560m).
- Mt. Qilai North Peak (3,607m) are infamous as “Black Qilai” with magnificent scenery but changeable weather.
If you aim to challenge Taiwan’s Baiyue, Taroko is definitely a mountaineering paradise not to be missed!
For more hiking routes, you can check the Taroko National Park official website. Here are some popular routes:
- Zhuilu Old Trail – A steep and narrow cliffside path with jaw-dropping views (permit required).
- Dali-Datong Trail – A remote and scenic hike leading to indigenous villages.
- Hehuanshan Trails – A collection of high-altitude hikes with stunning sunrise and cloud-sea views.
Eager hikers looking for deep exploration should note that Taroko National Park, as a protected natural area, doesn’t allow free entry to all areas. You don’t need permits to enter the Taroko Gorge section, and tourists can freely enter and visit this part. However, if you plan to visit ecological conservation areas (such as Mt. Nanhu, Mt. Qilai, or Mt. Bilu), you need to apply for mountain entry and park entry permits in advance. Apply here.
Routes requiring permits:
- For Qilai (Qilai Main Peak and Qilai North Peak, Mt. Qilai Range, Qilai East Ridge, Qilai South Peak), Nanhu (Mt. Nanhu, Mt. Nanhu – Mt. Zhongyangjian/North Section 1 of Central Mt. Range), North Section 1.~2. North of Central Mt. Range, North Section 2 of Central Mt. Range/Guimenguan Cliff, Mt. Shuan – Mt. Lingming, Mt. Shuan Single Day Ascent, Mt. Bilu – Mt. Yangtou, Mt. Qingshui, and non-traditional (“Other”) routes
- For Mt. Yangtou Single Day Ascent, Mt. Bilu Single Day Ascent routes
- For Zhuilu Old Road
- Advance Application for Zhuilu Old Road (Foreigners Only)
Preparing for High-Difficulty Hikes
If you’re planning to challenge the high-difficulty hiking routes in Taroko National Park, it’s essential to be fully equipped. Since some routes require long treks and possibly overnight stays, the following items are necessary:
Basic Equipment
- Hiking boots: Anti-slip, waterproof, supportive hiking boots are a must, as some sections are steep and regular athletic shoes can be slippery.
- Trekking poles: Help stabilize your steps and reduce knee strain.
- Headlamp/flashlight: Some routes require early morning starts or might end after dark, making lighting equipment essential.
- Navigation devices: GPS, hiking maps, or compass. Signal can be poor on some routes, so downloading offline maps is recommended.
Food and Water
- Sufficient water: Water sources on the mountain are limited; bring at least 2L or a water filter for refilling and purifying.
- High-energy food: Nuts, energy bars, dry food, chocolate, dehydrated meals – easy to carry and good for energy replenishment.
- Cooking equipment (if necessary): For overnight routes, bring lightweight stoves, gas canisters, and simple cookware for hot meals.
Overnight Equipment (for multi-day routes)
- Sleeping bag: Mountain nights are cold, so bring a lightweight sleeping bag suitable for the temperature.
- Tent/waterproof bivouac sack: If camping is required; some mountain huts allow staying in bivouac sacks.
- Warm clothing: Even in summer, mountain temperature variations are significant, so bring windproof and cold-resistant clothing.
Safety and Others
- First aid kit: Include basic medications, bandages, insect repellent, etc.
- Rain gear: Mountain weather changes quickly; rain jackets, rain pants, or waterproof outerwear are essential.
- Hiking permits and mountain entry permits: Some routes require application in advance.
Which routes need these preparations? High-difficulty routes requiring food and overnight equipment:
- Hehuanshan Range (can be done in two days, one night) — Some routes are long, so bring food and warm gear.
- Mt. Nanhu (3-4 days) — One of Taiwan’s Baiyue, requiring tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and other overnight gear.
- Mt. Qilai Main Peak and North Peak (2-3 days) — Difficult routes suitable for experienced hikers, requires camping equipment and sufficient food.
Day trips requiring ample supplies:
- Baiyang Trail + Water Curtain Cave — Although moderate difficulty, there are no supply points along the way, so bring your own food and water.
- Dayuling to Hehuanshan Trail — Can be completed in a day, but bring enough water and light provisions.
- Sawtooth Range — High-intensity route with complex conditions, recommended to bring enough supplies for emergencies.
Conclusion
Taroko National Park offers some of Taiwan’s most magnificent natural landscapes, attracting many visitors every year. It’s an absolute must-visit attraction in Hualien, Taiwan. However, due to the earthquake on April 3, 2024, many attractions are closed, which is truly unfortunate. I recommend checking the official website for the latest information before visiting to confirm which attractions are open. Also, transportation in Hualien isn’t as convenient as in Taipei, so I recommend hiring a private car. Local drivers are more familiar with the latest conditions and can help you avoid closed attractions to prevent wasted trips.
For accommodation, I recommend staying in downtown Hualien for more convenient dining options. If you want to stay inside Taroko, both the Tianxiang area and the Chongde area are good choices.
Tour options:
For more activities in Hualien? Check this out!
Hualien Attractions | 5 Stunning Scenic Spots You Must Visit | Taroko National Park & Qixingtan
