Taiwan, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, lush forests, and convenient trails, is a paradise for hikers.
Whether you’re up for an easy city trek or a multi-day expedition into high-altitude wilderness, hiking in Taiwan offers something for everyone.
In this, we’ll cover when to hike, permit and booking tips, and detailed info on the best spots to visit. Let’s hit the trails!
When to Go Hiking in Taiwan
Taiwan’s climate varies by season and region, so timing your hike can make a big difference. Here's what you can expect depending what month you visit the country.
Season | Months | Weather snapshot | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Spring | Mar-Apr | Cool, some rain; high peaks may keep snow into Mar | Cherry blossoms; forest and city trails | Showers; lingering snow/ice up high |
Summer | May-Sep | Hot, humid; frequent afternoon storms | Early-start hikes; shaded forest/river trails | 30°C; slippery paths; typhoons Jul-Sep can close roads/trails |
Autumn | Oct-early Nov | Cool, drier, clearer skies | High-mountain treks; autumn foliage in some areas | Popular season. Book permits/rooms early |
Late Autumn-Early Winter | Nov-Dec | Mild, dry; November-December are prime for most hikes | Lowland/city hikes; many mid-elevation routes | From mid-Dec, snow/ice may start above 3,000 metres |
Winter | mid-Dec–Feb | Cool/clear at low elevations; snow/ice in high mountains | Taipei/coastal hikes | High peaks need winter gear/experience; extra park rules may apply |
Tip: Always check recent trail conditions. Typhoons and earthquakes can cause damage. Notably, an April 2024 quake in Hualien closed many Taroko Gorge trails, some possibly for years. Some sights have reopened, but several trails remain limited. Check the Taroko National Park website for the latest updates before planning a hike.
Essential Hiking Tips and Permit Information
One thing to know about hiking in Taiwan is the permit system.
Most city and day hikes are free to enter, but many high-mountain routes inside national parks need permits. Peaks like Yushan (Jade Mountain) and Xueshan (Snow Mountain) use a controlled system, while places like Hehuanshan don’t require advance booking.
There are usually two permits for big climbs: a park entry permit and a police permit. Both are applied for online. Spots are limited, so plan ahead. Yushan, for example, reserves weekday spaces for foreign visitors if you apply up to four months early. Xueshan is first-come, first-served about 30 days out, so apply as soon as the window opens.
Trails are well-marked, but always prepare: bring water, snacks, rain gear, sun protection, and offline maps. Snakes like habu pit vipers and banded kraits live in the hills (but are rarely seen), and mosquitoes can be annoying in summer.
After a trek, locals love grabbing a quick convenience store meal or soaking in one of Taiwan’s many hot springs, so you might consider setting aside some time for that too.
Top Multi-Day High-Mountain Hikes in Taiwan
Taiwan’s lofty peaks, with many of them over 3,000 metres, are bucket-list hikes for adventure seekers.
Below are the most iconic mountain hikes, typically done as overnight trips.
1. Jade Mountain
The Jade Mountain (Yushan) hike takes you to Taiwan’s highest point at 3,952 metres. The trail climbs steadily from forests into alpine scrub before reaching rocky slopes near the summit. Most hikers spend two days: a steady hike up to Paiyun Lodge on day one, then a pre-dawn push to catch sunrise from the peak. On clear mornings, the shadow of Yushan stretches across a glowing “sea of clouds." It's one of Taiwan’s most iconic sights.
Photo: @matt.geo on Instagram
Autumn and early winter offer the best conditions, with crisp air and stable weather. Winter turns Yushan into a technical climb with ice and snow, and February is often closed entirely for conservation.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 4.5/5. Difficult, long climbs, altitude sickness possible. Bumps up to a 5/5 in winter with snow/ice.
Permits: Required (park + police). Foreigners can apply 4 months ahead with reserved weekday spots. Paiyun Lodge booking is tied to your permit. Apply early, as weekends are very competitive.
How to get there: Trailhead at Tataka (Tataka Anbu). The Yuanlin Bus 6739 runs between Sun Moon Lake and Alishan, stopping at Tataka, the trailhead for Yushan. The Yushan National Park website publishes the full timetable with exact stop times. Shuttle tours also available.
2. Snow Mountain
Photo: @ccynora on Instagram
The Snow Mountain (Xueshan) hike is Taiwan’s second-highest adventure at 3,886 metres. The trail takes you through pine forests and into the haunting Black Forest, before climbing the steep “Crying Slope” towards the summit.
Most hikers spend two days: Day one is a steady climb to 369 Cabin, where you sleep before the pre-dawn push. By sunrise, you’ll be on the ridge, watching the Pacific Ocean shimmer in the distance and Jade Mountain silhouetted on the horizon.
Photo: @wenwen88520 on Instagram
Highlights include the eerie Black Forest, seasonal Cuei Pond, and occasional encounters with Formosan macaques or Mikado pheasants. Autumn (Oct-Dec) is the best time to go, as winter turns it into a technical snow climb.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 4/5. Strenuous, long climbs, high altitude, non-technical outside winter.
Permits: Required (Shei-Pa National Park entry + police permit). Apply 30 days ahead. 369 Cabin booking is included.
How to get there: From Yilan, the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1751 and the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1764 both run to Lishan and stop at Wuling Farm, the starting point for the Snow Mountain hike. There is also an E-Go coach from Taipei that goes directly to Wuling Farm, though it does not have a public route number.
3. Hehuanshan
If multi-day treks aren’t for you, Hehuanshan is the perfect taste of Taiwan’s high mountains.
At over 3,400 metres, it’s one of the few places you can drive right up to the trailheads. From there, short paths lead to several peaks, making it ideal for beginners or travellers short on time.
The Main Peak is a steady 2 kilometres climb with panoramic views over Taroko’s valleys. The East Peak is even easier, just 20 minutes up a ridge, and famous for sunrises. Longer options like the North and West Peaks take 4-6 hours but are still relatively gentle. Because of its road access, Hehuanshan is also where locals flock in winter to see rare snow, and in spring to enjoy blooming azaleas.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Short but steep; altitude may leave you breathless.
Permits: None required, even though it’s partly in Taroko National Park.
How to get there: Drive via Highway 14 from Taichung/Cingjing or Highway 8 from Taroko (limited opening times in 2025, no public buses yet). Tours and taxis available from Cingjing, Hualien, or Puli.
4. Jiaming Lake
Photo: @duduting16 on Instagram
Nicknamed the “Angel’s Tear,” Jiaming Lake is a sapphire-blue alpine pond set high in Taitung County at 3,310 metres. This remote trek takes you through ancient forests, grassy ridges, and stark high-mountain terrain before revealing the glimmering oval lake.
Most hikers spread the journey over three days, camping near Jiaming Lake or at lower campsites. The trail is long and steep in places but non-technical, and the chance to spot Formosan sambar deer or even the elusive black bear adds to its wild allure.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 4/5. 2-3 days, 26 kilometres round-trip, steep climbs, high altitude camping.
Permits: Required (Yushan National Park, quota system). Competitive in autumn, slightly easier than Yushan.
How to get there: Trailhead at Xiangyang, 3-4 hrs drive from Taitung City. No direct public transport; arrange a car or join a guided trek.
5. The Holy Ridge
Photo: @_______yungchi_______ on Instagram
The Holy Ridge is Taiwan’s most legendary alpine traverse, linking Snow Mountain (Xueshan) to Dabajian Mountain across a razorback spine of peaks.
At over 3,000 metres for most of its length, this demanding trek is reserved for highly experienced hikers. The route combines knife-edge ridges, endless ascents and descents, and panoramic sights that many call the most dramatic in Taiwan.
It usually takes 5-7 days to complete, with hikers camping or staying in mountain huts along the way. The trail passes iconic spots like the sharp summit of Dabajian, the haunting Black Forest, and multiple exposed ridge-lines where weather can turn treacherous.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 5/5. Extremely difficult, technical sections, long days at altitude.
Permits: Required (Shei-Pa National Park + police). Very limited quotas, strict application process. Book huts well in advance.
How to get there: Typically begins at Wuling Farm (same as Snow Mountain) or Dahu Police Station. Best arranged through local guides or clubs due to logistics and safety.
6. Nenggao Historic Trail
Photo: @sphinx_ting on Instagram
The Nenggao Historic Trail is a classic high-mountain route that follows an old Japanese-era path once used for forestry and transport.
Winding through central Taiwan, it takes you past waterfalls, alpine grasslands, and panoramic ridgelines with stunning shots of the Central Mountain Range.
Most hikers tackle it over 2-3 days, with overnights at Tianchi Cabin near a serene mountain lake or at campsites along the route. The climb is steady but not overly technical, making it a rewarding trek for those seeking a long but manageable high-altitude adventure.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 3.5/5. Long distances, steady elevation gain, but non-technical.
Permits: Required (Yushan National Park + police). Apply early, especially for weekends when hut spaces fill.
How to get there: Trailhead near Ren’ai Township, Nantou. Reachable by car or arranged transport from Puli or Cingjing. No direct public bus service to the trailhead.
7. Batongguan Historic Trail
Photo: @wuddy523 on Instagram
The Batongguan Historic Trail is one of Taiwan’s longest and most storied mountain routes. Originally built during the Qing dynasty and later expanded under Japanese rule, it was once a key passage across the Central Mountain Range.
Today, it’s a remote trek through deep valleys, old stone paths, and pristine forests, with a strong sense of history layered into the wilderness.
Hikers usually attempt sections rather than the full length, as the entire trail stretches over 90 kilometres and can take more than a week. The western section from Dongpu up to Batongguan Meadow is the most popular, offering gorgeous views of Yushan’s peaks and open alpine grasslands.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 4/5. Long, multi-day, high elevation, physically demanding.
Permits: Required (Yushan National Park + police). Hut reservations essential, but spaces are limited.
How to get there: Western trailhead at Dongpu, Nantou, about 2-3 hours drive from Sun Moon Lake or Taichung. Private transport or arranged shuttles recommended, as public transport is limited.
Best Day Hikes & Trails in Taiwan
Not every great hike in Taiwan requires advances permits.
In fact, some of the best hiking trails are right on the edge of cities or are in easily accessible parks.
Here are the best hiking trails in the country, from backyard hills to coastal trails.
Best Hikes in Taipei and New Taipei City
8. Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)
The Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) hike is Taipei’s classic city trail.
In just 20-30 minutes, you’ll climb a steep staircase to the Six Giant Rocks viewpoint, where the skyline unfolds with Taipei 101 front and centre. At dusk, the scene transforms; picture lantern-lit streets below and the skyscraper glowing against the night sky.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1/5. Short, steep steps (600), but easy overall.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: 5-minute walk from MRT Xiangshan Station (Red Line). The trail is paved and lit, safe for night visits.
9. Yangmingshan National Park
Just north of Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is known for its volcanic peaks, flower fields, and steaming hot springs.
The park’s highlight is Qixing Mountain (Seven Star Mountain) at 1,120 metre, making it the tallest peak in Taipei. The trail climbs stone steps through grasslands and fumaroles, with 360-degree city views from the summit.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 2.5/5. Moderate 2-3 hour round-trip, 700 metre elevation gain.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: The S15 bus runs from MRT Jiantan Station to Qingtiangang, and the 108 bus is a shuttle loop within Yangmingshan National Park that connects key trailheads such as Lengshuikeng.
10. Teapot Mountain
Photo: @h.c.h.lee on Instagram
In Ruifang, just above Jiufen’s historic gold-mining town, the Teapot Mountain hike is short but full of character.
The 3.5 kilometres loop climbs past mine ruins and grassy ridges nicknamed “Matcha Mountain,” before a rope-assisted scramble through the teapot-shaped rock at the top. From the summit, the Pacific coastline stretches endlessly, making it one of northern Taiwan’s most scenic hikes.
As of mid-2025, most of the trail has reopened after earlier landslide damage. The final crawl through the teapot remains officially closed, though hikers report it’s often still used. Make sure to check conditions locally through the New Taipei tourism website.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 3/5. Short but with rope-assisted climbs and light scrambling.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: From Taipei, the Keelung Bus 1062 runs from Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station to Jinguashi. From Jiufen or Ruifang, the Keelung Bus 788 continues to the Gold Museum at Jinguashi, which is the start point for the Teapot Mountain trail.
11. Taipei Grand Hike
Photo: @poystersauce_ on Instagram
The Taipei Grand Hike is a 92 kilometres loop that links together the city’s many smaller trails into one continuous circuit.
You don’t need to walk it all. Some tandout sections include Section 1 (Yangmingshan to Neihu) and Section 5 (Xinyi to Maokong), which combine forest paths, skyline viewpoints, and cultural stops like temples and tea farms.
Need to know:
Difficulty: Varies by section. Most are moderate and take 2-5 hours each.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Each section starts and ends near MRT or bus stations, making it easy to do in parts. Trail signage is clear in both Chinese and English.
12. Huangdidian Ridge Hike
Photo: @myroomabroad on Instagram
The Huangdidian Ridge Hike in New Taipei is one for thrill-seekers.
The trail climbs to a narrow ridge lined with jagged rocks and knife-edge paths, where ropes help you scramble across exposed sections.
From the top, you’ll get sweeping sights of the mountains around Pingxi, often with mist drifting through the valleys below.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 3.5/5. Steep climbs, rope sections, and narrow ridges. If you have a fear of heights, this one is not for you.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Take a train to Pingxi Station, then a short taxi or walk to the trailhead near Huangdidian Village. Allow 3-4 hours for the loop.
13. Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail
Photo: @ding_7693 on Instagram
The Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is a lush jungle hike in New Taipei that strings together three stunning waterfalls: Hegu, Motian, and Pipa.
The trail winds through forested paths, wooden bridges, and rocky steps, with the sound of rushing water never far away.
It’s a refreshing contrast to Taiwan’s high-mountain climbs, offering cool shade and plenty of photo stops.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 2/5. It's a moderate half-day hike, mostly forest paths and steps.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Take the train to Sandiaoling Station (Pingxi Line). The trailhead is a short walk from the station, with clear signs pointing to the waterfalls.
14. Fuzhoushan
Photo: @fransglobal on Instagram
The Fuzhoushan hike is a quick escape in central Taipei that feels surprisingly wild for being in the middle of the city.
The short trail leads through leafy slopes to a hilltop park where you’ll find panoramic shots of Taipei 101 and the skyline. It’s a favourite with locals for morning walks or sunset strolls, combining convenience with a touch of nature.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1/5. Very easy, paved paths, 20-30 minutes to the viewpoint.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Located in Daan District. Reachable by MRT (Liuzhangli or Linguang stations) followed by a short walk to the park entrance.
15. Jiuquan Hiking Trail
Photo: @_lenous on Instagram
The Jiuquan Hiking Trail is a short, family-friendly path tucked away in Beitou.
It’s an easy climb through shaded forest, with rest pavilions along the way and rewarding views over northern Taipei once you reach the ridge.
Many locals pair it with a visit to Beitou’s famous hot springs, making it a relaxed half-day outing.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Gentle, well-paved, about 30-40 minutes one way.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Take the MRT to Beitou Station, then bus or a short taxi ride to the trailhead near Jiuquan Street.
Best Hikes in Central Taiwan & Taichung
16. Dakeng Trails
Photo: @sorsik on Instagram
The Dakeng Trails are Taichung’s most popular hiking network, with 10 numbered routes winding through low mountains on the city’s edge.
Wooden log steps and boardwalks line the ridges, offering aerial sights of Taichung and its surrounding countryside. Locals love these trails for quick workouts or relaxed strolls, with rest pavilions scattered along the way.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1/5 to 3/5 depending on the trail (Trail #4 is the most popular, with many steps and a moderate climb).
Permits: None required.
How to get there: The Bus 66 loop serves several Dakeng trailheads, while the Bus 20 from Taichung Station goes to the Trail 10 trailhead.
17. Alishan Forest Trails
The Alishan Forest Trails are a gentle but unforgettable way to experience Taiwan’s alpine scenery. Famous for giant cedars, mossy forests, and the “sea of clouds” sunrise, Alishan blends natural beauty with cultural charm.
Easy loops like the Giant Tree Trail, the Sisters Ponds walk, and the short climb up Mt. Ogasawara (Xiaoliyushan)lead you through serene forests, wooden walkways, and stunning viewpoints.
Alishan is extremely popular, especially during cherry blossom season in March and on weekends, so book accommodation well in advance. If you want to see the iconic sunrise over Yushan, you’ll also need to reserve a seat on the dawn mountain train to Chushan the day before.
To make things easier, you can also join a private tour, which often includes transport, sunrise tickets, and time to walk the forest trails without worrying about logistics.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1/5. Easy, with accessible walking trails.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: From Chiayi, the Bus 7322 connects Chiayi TRA and HSR stations with the Alishan Forest Recreation Area.
18. Sun Moon Lake
Photo: @masiaone on Instagram
Though best known for cycling and boat rides, Sun Moon Lake also offers a couple of gentle hikes that add variety to your visit.
The Maolan Mountain Trail winds through forests and tea plantations to viewpoints overlooking the lake, while the short Ci’en Pagoda Trail climbs to a hilltop pagoda built by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother.
Both walks take just 1-2 hours, making them easy add-ons to a lake itinerary that’s focused on sightseeing.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1/5. Easy, with short trails suitable for all ages.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Accessible from the Sun Moon Lake bus stop area; trailheads are within a short drive, bike ride, or taxi from Shuishe or Ita Thao.
Best Hikes in Eastern Taiwan
19. Taroko Gorge Trails
Taroko Gorge is Taiwan’s most famous national park, known for its soaring marble cliffs and winding canyon roads. Before the 2024 earthquake, popular hikes included the flat riverside Shakadang Trail and the adrenaline-filled Zhuilu Old Trail along a sheer cliff face.
As of 2025, however, most trails remain closed due to quake damage. Zhuilu is shut indefinitely, and Swallow Grotto and Shakadang are also off-limits. Only short walks like Xiaozhuilu or the Baiyang Waterfall Trail may be accessible, though even these open and close depending on repairs.
For now, the gorge is best enjoyed by car or shuttle tour, with hikes redirected to the Hehuanshan area of Taroko National Park, where high-altitude trails remain open.
Need to know:
Difficulty: N/A. Most Taroko Gorge trails are closed as of 2025.
Permits: Not relevant until major trails reopen.
How to get there: The gorge is accessible by train to Hualien, then by car, taxi, or tour bus. Note: earthquake repairs mean limited road access and no public buses inside the gorge as of 2025.
20. St. Marian's Trail
Photo: @pilibaseball on Instagram
The St. Marian’s Trail in Jiaoxi, Yilan (better known as “Matcha Mountain”) has become an Instagram favourite for its rolling, velvet-green hills that look like layers of matcha cake.
Take note: this nickname is sometimes also used for Teapot Mountain near Jiufen, but the two are different hikes.
The trail begins near a small Catholic church, climbs past a waterfall, then pushes steeply through forest to open grassy ridges with sweeping views of the Lanyang Plain and the Pacific Ocean. At the summit, the sight of wave-like green slopes is unforgettable.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 3/5 . It's long and steep. 10.7 kilometres round-trip, 5-6 hours.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: From Taipei, take a train or bus to Jiaoxi (about 1 hour). From town, grab a taxi or local bus to the church trailhead.
21. Hualien River Tracing & Waterfall Hike
Photo: @jeremiah_chang on Instagram
Beyond its mountains, Hualien is also famous for river tracing and jungle waterfall hikes. The Mugumuyu (Mukumugi) Valley has crystal-clear streams and dramatic gorge scenery, though access is sometimes restricted due to land rights. Check the latest status before going via the Yushan National Park website.
Another highlight is the Walami Trail, part of the historic Batongguan route in Yushan National Park’s east. The first section to Qicai (Rainbow) Waterfall makes a rewarding day trip, about 10 kilometres round-trip through lush forest.
After landslides in 2024, the trail was reopened in January 2025, offering visitors an accessible, less strenuous alternative to Taiwan’s multi-day treks, with chances to spot monkeys and rare birds.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 2.5/5. Moderate distance, well-marked forest trail.
Permits: None needed for day hikers to Rainbow Waterfall; permits required if going further or overnight.
How to get there: From Hualien City, take a train or bus to Yuli, then taxi or shuttle to the trailhead. Mugumuyu access typically requires arranging local transport.
Best Hikes in Southern Taiwan
22. Kenting National Park
Photo: @monicaroams on Instagram
At Taiwan’s southern tip, Kenting National Park offers more than beaches; it’s also home to scenic coastal walks and limestone hills.
In the Kenting Forest Recreation Area, jungle trails wind through caves, banyan roots, and limestone formations, while the short climb up Mt. Guan rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the ocean and coral reef coastline.
These trails are easy add-ons to a Kenting trip and a refreshing break from the tropical heat.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Short, mostly easy trails with some steps.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: From Kaohsiung Zuoying HSR Station, the Kenting Express 9189 runs directly to Kenting town, the gateway to the national park.
23. Monkey Mountain (Shoushan)
The Monkey Mountain hike is a fun urban adventure and one of the best things to do in Kaohsiung.
Expect trails to climb gently through forested slopes to viewpoints over the city and harbour.
But the real draw? That'd be the wildlife. Witness troops of Formosan macaques that you’ll almost certainly encounter along the way.
They’re entertaining to watch, but keep a close eye on your bags and snacks, as the monkeys can be cheeky.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Short and easy, with some steps.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Easily reached from central Kaohsiung. The main trailheads are near Sizihwan MRT Station or Gushan District; trails are well signposted.
24. Seven Heroes of Guguan
The Seven Heroes of Guguan are a set of challenging peaks straddling the Taichung-Kaohsiung border.
These trails are steep, long, and rugged, appealing mainly to seasoned hikers aiming to tick off Taiwan’s “100 Peaks” list (which is basically a collection of the island’s highest and most celebrated mountains compiled by Taiwanese mountaineers).
For most casual visitors, these hikes are best admired from afar, while more accessible trails in Taichung or Nantou provide a similar mountain fix without the intensity.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 5/5. Extremely strenuous, multi-hour ascents with demanding terrain.
Permits: Required (national park and police). Advance booking needed.
How to get there: Trailheads are accessed via Guguan hot spring area in Taichung. Private transport or local hiking groups are the most practical way in.
25. Caoshan Moon World
Photo: @yu_fotisto on Instagram
In Tainan, the Caoshan Moon World offers a surreal change of scenery.
This short ridge hike takes you across grey, eroded badlands that look like a lunar landscape. The stark terrain, shaped by clay and sedimentary rock, creates jagged ridges and gullies that glow under the sun.
It’s a quick and unusual hike that contrasts sharply with Taiwan’s lush forests and mountains.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Short ridge paths with some steep sections.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Located in Zuozhen District, about an hour’s drive from central Tainan. Best reached by car or scooter; limited public transport options.
26. Orchid Island (Lanyu)
Photo: @chianmi.tw on Instagram
Remote and culturally rich, Orchid Island (Lanyu) is best known for its Tao (Yami) indigenous community, volcanic coastline, and dramatic sea cliffs. While it’s small, the island has a handful of hikes that showcase its wild character.
Trails lead to viewpoints above terraced fields, hidden beaches, and rugged headlands battered by the Pacific. One highlight is the short climb up to Mt. Yeyin, the island’s highest point at 552 metres, with panoramic views across the island and endless ocean.
Beyond hiking, Lanyu is perfect for combining coastal walks with snorkelling, diving, and cultural visits to traditional underground houses.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 2/5. Mostly short trails, some steep sections but not technical.
Permits: None required for hikes; do note that access to some areas may be restricted to respect indigenous lands.
How to get there: Reachable by ferry from Taitung or Kenting, or by small plane from Taitung Airport. Once on the island, hire a scooter to explore trailheads and viewpoints.
27. Green Island (Lyudao)
Photo: @onthetrayl on Instagram
Green Island (Lyudao) blends coastal beauty with volcanic landscapes and a dash of history.
While most visitors come for snorkelling, diving, or the famous saltwater hot springs, there are a few short hikes worth adding to your trip. Trails wind past dramatic cliffs, coral terraces, and lookout points over the turquoise ocean.
One highlight is the walk to the Green Island Lighthouse, which offers amazing sea views. Another is the trail around the Human Rights Memorial Park, set on the site of a former political prison, combining history with coastal scenery.
Need to know:
Difficulty: 1.5/5. Easy coastal paths with occasional stairs.
Permits: None required.
How to get there: Accessible by ferry from Taitung or by small plane from Taitung Airport. Once on the island, scooters are the best way to reach trailheads and viewpoints.
Advice For Hiking Tourists
So, you're planning your first hike in Taiwan.
While most trails have been tried and tested by experienced hikers, there are some things you need to take into account to ensure your trek is both fun and safe.
Gear: No need to bring everything from home. Taipei has plenty of outdoor shops where you can rent or buy gear. Guides or hiking groups often provide equipment and handle permits.
Language: Popular trails have bilingual signs, but lesser-known routes may only use Chinese names (e.g. Qixing Mountain = 七星山/qī xīng shān). Carry an offline map or apps such as Maps.me, AllTrails, or Gaia GPS.
Etiquette: Yield to uphill hikers, queue politely for summit photos, and pack out your trash. On indigenous lands, stay on marked trails and respect restrictions.
Linking experiences: Many combine hikes with other activities (e.g. a Taipei hike, hot springs in Beitou, then night markets) Nature and city are never far apart.
Emergency: Dial 119 for rescue. Park police can also assist. Always share your hiking plan, especially if going solo.