Where to hike in Taiwan: 10 best mountains to hike in Taiwan for nature lovers

October 11, 2025

Hehuanshan taiwan23 (1) — Hehuanshan Sunrise, Nantou, Taiwan

Want to challenge yourself with the majestic mountains in Taiwan? Where to hike in Taiwan, which mountain should you climb, do you need a permit? Discover 10 mountaineering destinations, best mountains to hike in Taiwan for nature travelers in this post.

Taroko Gorge National Park travel to China — Taroko Gorge National Park | Where to hike in Taiwan: 10 best mountains to hike in Taiwan for nature lovers

Taiwan has long been famous for its countless beautiful mountain climbing routes, converging between green forests, white clouds and majestic mountain peaks. From spring to autumn, the cool climate and brilliant natural scenery make this place an ideal destination for both beginners and experts. Each journey is both a physical challenge and an opportunity for you to admire the rare wild beauty.

Let’s explore the list of 10 outstanding mountain climbing destinations in Taiwan in this article below!

Where to hike in Taiwan: Explore Yushan – The Roof of Taiwan

10 Mountaineering Destinations in Taiwan for Travelers | where to hike in taiwan

Yushan is known as the “roof of Taiwan” with an altitude of 3,952m, which is also the highest mountain peak in East Asia. The mountain range is located in Yushan National Park, where a diverse ecosystem gathers and 11 peaks covered with white clouds all year round. As you go higher, the landscape gradually changes to coniferous forests, then to alpine shrubs with cypresses, rhododendrons, and wild grasses growing on bare rocks.

2D1N or 2D2N Yushan Hiking Tour in Nantou

Conquering Yushan requires both physical endurance and strong will. You must apply for a permit from the Mountain ROC Association before starting the journey. The climbing path is quite difficult, with many steep slopes, suitable for those with trekking experience. The moments of sunrise and sunset on the “sea of clouds” on the top of Yushan Mountain will definitely not disappoint you.

If you want to enjoy the journey to the fullest, consider joining a professional climbing tour to be guided along the way and stay in a safe mountain hut. At the same time, you will also receive advice on the optimal climbing time, necessary equipment and how to avoid hypoxia at high altitude. This experience is not only a test of strength but also an opportunity for you to connect deeply with nature and overcome your limits.

Conquer the Majestic Snow Mountain (Xueshan)

Xueshan, also known as Snow Mountain, is the second highest in Taiwan with the main peak reaching 3,886 m. It is located in Shei-Pa National Park and is located in the majestic Xueshan range, opening up a view of snow-capped mountains in winter and clouds all year round. Away from the hustle and bustle, the road to Xueshan takes you through the Black Forest – a dense, mysterious ancient black fir forest.

The journey usually lasts for many days, through rest stops such as Qika Cabin, Sanliujiu Camp, allowing the group to rest and recover before climbing to the top. Due to the cold weather and dangerous snow-covered roads, you need to prepare carefully with equipment such as trekking shoes, thermal clothing, and climbing support equipment. You also need to apply for a permit from Shei-Pa National Park before departure.

Taichung: Snow Mountain East Peak 2-Day and 1-Night Hiking Experience

In addition to trekking, you can also visit meteorological observation stations to learn about the mountain ecosystem. In addition, the sky on the top of Xueshan is as wide as a painting, the cold air seeps into every moment, making the trekking trip memorable in both nature and mental challenges.

Climbing Hehuanshan to See the Clouds and Sky

In particular, there are no showers, so if you travel to Taiwan in the summer, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a complete, memorable and convenient vacation. source: taiwanese-secrets.com | where to hike in taiwan

Unlike Yushan or Xueshan, which require permits and specialized trekking skills, Hehuanshan is about 3,416 m high and is one of the most accessible mountains in Taiwan. Hehuanshan has a road for vehicles, crossing Wuling at the lowest point of the pass, convenient for the whole family or group of friends who want to reach the top of the mountain without having to climb too long.

The scenery in Hehuanshan changes with the seasons: spring has rhododendrons blooming, summer has a poetic green color, autumn has a misty mist, and winter is covered with white snow blending with the clouds. You can also walk along the short, gentle trail, suitable for those who do not go to the mountains often. In addition, the area around Hehuanshan is also near Cingjing Farm and Sun Moon Lake, ideal for combining a 2-3 day trip.

Hehuanshan in winter | where to hike in taiwan

Hehuanshan Sunrise Tour or Half Day Tour from Qingjing

With a half-day tour, you have enough time to admire the changing colors of nature and bring back a beautiful check-in photo album. For all visitors, the moment the sun rises behind the mountains, the winter snowfall, or cloud hunting are unforgettable impressions when conquering Hehuanshan.

Best mountains to hike in Taiwan: Stroll Through the Forest on Alishan Mountain

Alishan has long been a symbol of Taiwan tourism, a place where majestic landscapes and unique aboriginal culture converge. The mountain range is located in southern Taiwan, including more than 20 peaks over 2,000m high, of which Da Tashan reaches 2,663m. Local people say that the name “Alishan” comes from the Tsou ethnic language, meaning “ancestral mountain” where gods reside.

Stairs with a shady path lead to the square bamboo forest. | where to hike in taiwan

When you set foot here, you will be overwhelmed by the vast primeval forest, towering thousand-year-old cypress trees and the sea of clouds floating right in front of your eyes. In particular, Alishan is famous for its “four wonders” including sunrise, sunset, sea of clouds and ancient forests, both romantic and mysterious. In addition, do not miss the experience of sitting on the ancient Alishan Forest Railway – the first railway through the forest in Taiwan.

The paved walkway is very clean – Alishan travel experience | where to hike in taiwan

Chiayi: Alishan Day Tour & Multi-Day Tour from Chiayi

The trekking route in Alishan is quite easy, suitable for families or groups of friends. You have two options: a short day trip, walking through the wooden trails around the forest, or a multi-day tour combined with a resort. The ideal time to hunt for photos is March – April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the famous Alishan oolong tea to end the trip.

Challenge Yourself with Taroko Gorge Trails

The Liwu River with its blue water like a soft silk stripe past the steep marble cliffs captivates many visitors. | where to hike in taiwan

Taroko Gorge belongs to Taroko National Park, famous for its vertical marble cliffs and the blue Liwu River winding at the foot of the mountain. Taroko Gorge is known as the “marble wonder” of Taiwan, stretching over 19 km with cliffs reaching hundreds of meters high. The Truku people who live here consider this gorge a sacred land, associated with the legend of the mountain and its guardian mountain god.

The trekking routes in Taroko are quite diverse, from easy to difficult. Shakadang Trail stands out with its clear stream, suitable for beginners. For adventurous travelers, Zhuilu Old Trail will bring a spectacular experience when the path is only more than half a meter wide, with a steep cliff on one side and a deep abyss on the other.

The road from Changchun Bridge to the temple | best mountains to hike in taiwan

Taroko National Park, Hsinchu Old Street & Chihsingtan Day Tour

In addition to trekking, visitors can visit the Changchun Temple perched on the cliff, or go to Tiansiang Village to learn about the local culture. A little secret when conquering Taroko is to bring good grip shoes and prepare enough water, because the weather here changes quickly. More than just a mountain climb, Taroko Gorge Trails is a journey to discover the harshness and majestic beauty of Taiwan’s nature.

Climb Qixingshan in the Heart of Yangmingshan National Park

Qixingshan is located in Yangmingshan National Park, only about 1 hour drive from downtown Taipei. With an altitude of 1,120m, this is the highest mountain in northern Taiwan. The name “Seven Stars” comes from the fact that the mountain has seven small peaks arranged in the shape of the Big Dipper constellation. Taipei residents consider this a familiar resort near the city, offering fresh air and majestic mountain scenery.

Climbing Qixingshan, you will be surrounded by silver-white reed fields in autumn, sulfur breath rising from the dormant volcano and a wide view embracing Taipei and the sea in the distance. The Qixing Trail is quite easy to walk, the conquering time is about 2-3 hours, suitable for beginners. The slope is moderate, the path has clear stone steps. However, in the rainy season, the fog is thick and the rock surface is slippery, you should bring a walking stick and a thin raincoat to ensure safety.

Private Taipei Yangmingshan Hiking Day Tour

After reaching the top, many people often visit the Beitou hot spring area to relax, or wander in the park to see the seasonal flower garden. A little tip is to start climbing early in the morning to catch the sunset from the top, when the evening light dyes the sky red and Taipei City glows below.

Qilaishan – Destination for Professional Climbers

Qilaishan is located on the border of Nantou and Hualien provinces, famous as the most challenging mountain in Taiwan. The North Peak is 3,607 m high, ranked in the “Harsh Ten” group in the system of 100 famous mountains. The name “Black Qilai” also comes from the Sakizaya native, referring to the dark-shaped shale cracks, giving a feeling of both coldness and majesty.

Hualien: Qilai Main Peak & North Peak 3-Day 2-Night Hiking Experience

The Qilaishan climb is not for the “faint-hearted”. The route to the Main and North Peaks requires high climbing skills, good physical strength and the ability to cope with unpredictable weather. You will have to go through the Kaluolou Cliff, the slate is slippery, the wind is strong and the fog can cover at any time.

To ensure safety and confidence in exploring this stormy peak, you should book a tour with a guide and arrange accommodation on the mountain. With the climbing group, you will easily overcome the foggy section, then see before your eyes the vast green bamboo grassland and the gentle sunrise on the top. That scene promises to be engraved in your soul!

Nanhu & Pintian Mountains

Nanhu is one of the five highest mountains in Taiwan, ranking 5th with an altitude of 3,742 m. Located in Taroko National Park, this mountain range was once the traditional area of the Atayal tribe, famous for its majestic and wild scenery. Winter here still retains traces of glaciers, creating an impressive glacial cirque scene between the stone forest and fir trees.

Pintian is 3,524 m high, belongs to the Xueshan range, and is also among the top 100 peaks worth conquering in Taiwan. When climbing both peaks, you need to be well prepared in terms of trekking skills, eating and sleeping, changing altitude, and getting a permit in advance. A suggestion for you is the Jiaming Lake Hiking Tour in Taitung.

Taitung: Jiaming Lake 3 or 4-Day Hiking Experience

This tour will give you the opportunity to get used to the altitude before continuing to climb Nam Ho or Pintian. The secret is to acclimatize slowly, keep your breathing steady, and drink plenty of water. When standing at the top, in the quiet space, you will clearly feel the power and magnificence of Taiwan’s nature.

Guntai Mountain – A Little-Known Trekking Route

Guntai Mountain, located in Nantou, is a gentle trekking route in the first group of mountains of the Baiyue system. The height of this mountain is not too high, the trail is suitable for beginners but still gives a memorable feeling of conquest.

Nantou: Hunter’s Ancient Trail & Mount Junda 2-Day Hiking Experience

Combine sightseeing around, admire Yushan or Alishan from afar when the sky is clear. On the way, you will feel like you are lost in a dream, among low clouds sliding through the foliage, green forests in the morning mist. The secret to climbing Guntai is to go slowly, rest halfway to enjoy the scenery and keep a stable heart rate. With this route, you can easily feel the mountain scenery, without having to worry about climbing techniques.

Banping Mountain – A Peaceful Corner in Kaohsiung

Banping Mountain is located in Nanzih District, Kaohsiung City, with a modest height of only about 220 m but possesses a rustic and poetic landscape. This place used to be a limestone mining area during the Qing Dynasty, now preserved as a natural park. At the foot of the mountain is Banping Lake Wetland Park, a 13-hectare artificial wetland.

The road to Banping has a wooden path, gently sloping, suitable for families and groups of friends looking for a relaxing place near the city. An interesting thing: in spring and autumn, you have the opportunity to watch nearly 24 species of birds of prey migrating through the area from the central observation area, especially the rare grey-faced Peregrine falcon.

New Taipei City | Ruifang Banping Creek | Canyoning Experience

The trip lasts about 2-3 hours and does not require much technique, visitors just need to wear light shoes, bring a camera to capture the moment of birds flying and the peaceful scenery. After climbing, visit Banping Lake, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the peaceful feeling in the heart of the city.

Taiwan Mountaineering Tips for Travelers

Here are some practical experiences to help your mountain climbing trip in Taiwan be safer, more impressive and more complete:

Apply for Permits for High Mountains Like Yushan, Xueshan

Mountain climbing trips in Yushan, Xueshan or Taroko all require registration through the Hike Smart Taiwan Service system (also known as “National Park Permit”). With the famous Yushan peak, you need to apply and wait for a lottery about 4 months to 35 days before the climbing date. After being approved, you need to apply for a Mountain Entry Permit (Police Permit) to ensure security in the high mountains.

Book a Tour with a Professional Guide from Klook

Klook offers many tours for mountaineers such as the 2D1N or 2D2N Jade Mountain Hiking Tour, the 2D1N Snow Mountain East Summit Hiking Tour, the Hehuanshan Sunrise Tour, the Alishan Day Tour and Multi-Day Tour, etc. All packages include support for obtaining permits, guides, accommodation, vehicles and necessary equipment.

Prepare Specialized Mountaineering Equipment

The type of equipment directly affects the safety and climbing experience. High-grip shoes help you walk firmly on wet trails and slippery rocks. Sleeping bags, warm clothes, breathable, waterproof clothes are necessary equipment for high peaks with harsh climates such as Yushan or Xueshan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mountaineering in Taiwan

Prominent red train running through cherry blossom trees in Alishan, Taiwan @https://tttrips.com/

When is the best time to climb mountains in Taiwan?

The best time to climb mountains in Taiwan is from October to April, when the weather is cool, there is little rain and the view is clear.

What should you prepare before climbing mountains in Taiwan?

You should prepare a climbing permit (if needed), warm clothes, non-slip climbing shoes, snacks, drinking water and basic medical supplies.

Should you hire a guide when climbing high mountains in Taiwan?

Yes, especially for high mountains like Yushan, Xueshan; the guide will help you stay safe and assist you in case of an accident.

How to get to famous climbing spots in Taiwan?

You can travel by train, bus or rent a private car from major cities like Taipei, Taichung to reach famous climbing spots.

Do you need to buy insurance when climbing mountains in Taiwan?

Yes, you should buy travel insurance or mountain climbing insurance, as the journeys are often long, the terrain is rugged and there are potential risks.

Taiwan is a paradise for tourists who are passionate about conquering nature. From majestic mountain routes such as Yushan, Qilaishan to mountain ranges surrounded by primeval forests, each journey offers both challenging and poetic experiences. With diverse ecosystems, majestic landscapes and fresh air, mountain climbing in Taiwan will surely make you fascinated and want to come back many times.

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A section of the road between Yanzikou and the Tunnel of Nine Turns

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