Taroko Gorge—it’s Taiwan’s biggest tourist attraction, and justifiably so. With 19 kilometers of steep mountainous slopes dropping off into deep, crystal-clear ravines, it truly is a site to behold. Add a smattering of traditional Chinese temples, waterfalls, and hikes through the surrounding area, and it’s no wonder why the park is at the top of any Taiwan bucket list. After two years of living in Taiwan, I can easily say that experiencing Taroko Gorge remains one of my personal favorites as well.

To make sure you get the most out of your trip, here is my ultimate guide to exploring Taroko Gorge National Park: 

Get In

The gorge is located outside the quiet town of Hualien on Taiwan’s east coast; it’s best to use Hualien as your base to arrive at the gorge early in the morning. If you have the time, allow a few extra days in Hualien to explore the coastline and nearby East Rift Valley as well.

There are numerous group tours and buses that transport tourists to Taroko Gorge, and these are ‘okay’ if the thought of driving the winding roads along the gorge terrifies you.  However, the best option is to explore via your own transportation—preferably with a scooter, which you can rent in Hualien with a valid motorcycle license.  Driving through Taroko Gorge is an attraction on its own; you’ll want to be able to stop and go at your own pace.

The Steep Cliffs of Taroko Gorge

Fees

Entrance to the national park is free. 

See

Shakadang Trail: An easy but beautiful walk along the very blue Shakadang River. It takes about an hour and a half to walk the entire path, roundtrip. It’s well worth the time it takes, and one of my favorite leisurely activities in the gorge.

Eternal Spring Shrine: A memorial to those who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. The shrine is one of Taroko’s most iconic images.

Swallow Grotto: These marble cliff faces are covered with small holes in which swallows dart in and out. The path here provides exceptional views of the river and a narrow gorge.

Tunnel of Nine Turns (when it’s open): Said to be one of the most magnificent views in the gorge, but unfortunately is has been closed to the public for some time now.  You can check its status here.

Eternal Spring Shrine Temple

Do

Hike: There are numerous hiking options in and around the gorge, some of them half-day trips, some of them more complicated, multi-day ventures. You do need permits for some of the hikes. More information about extended hikes can be found here.

Hiking path
 
River Tracing: The area around the gorge is great for river tracing, though tours can also be arranged from Hualien. Be sure to ask about the difficulty before you begin though; the last time I went ‘river tracing’, it consisted of a group of thirty people walking alongside the river—still equipped with helmets and life vests.

Shakadang River Trail

Bring

A poncho: It rains all the time in Taiwan, and it is especially difficult to get a sunny day in the gorge. A poncho will be your best friend, especially if you opted to drive a scooter.

Good shoes: Even if you’re doing a lot of driving through the gorge, you’re going to want to walk around and explore all the surrounding beauty! They don’t have to be hiking shoes, but leave your flip-flops at the hotel.

Sleep

Most people opt to see Taroko Gorge as a day trip. This is certainly possible, and for many just driving through the length of the gorge will be enough of an attraction. But if you have the vacation days to spare, a longer stay is certainly a rewarding experience. There are a handful of small campgrounds in the middle of the park. During off-season it is easy to find a space at the public camp, though during holidays and peak season the first-come-first-serve basis can be competitive.

I have only ever camped in the park, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. However, if you prefer a more luxurious experience, the Silk’s Place Taroko Hotel (click for info) is easily the best option. It’s also quite the splurge, located within the national park and with fantastic views of the surrounding area. Alternatively, there is a more budget-friendly Youth Activity Center/ Hostel in Tianxiang. A full list of accommodation options can be found here (click for rates and availability).

Eat

Dining options are less than inspiring to say the least. There are small restaurants located in the towns that dot the way along Taroko and serve up standard Taiwanese fare. I recommend stocking up on supplies at the 7-11 just before the park entrance. There is also a nice café near the campgrounds that serves good tea and coffee.

Swallow Grotto

Have you been to Taroko Gorge? What tips would you add?  

MORE Taiwan travel goodness:

9 Unique Bucket List Experiences in Taiwan

5 Reasons to Take a Road Trip on Taiwan’s Northeast Coast

Beehive Fireworks Festival: Taiwan’s Most Dangerous Event

Burning Boat Festival: An Encounter with Traditional Taiwanese Folklore

The 7 Natural Wonders of Taiwan

9 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid in Taiwan

Taiwanese Night Market Culture: Eat, Drink, and Be Daring

Casey Siemasko, the Taiwan Editor for Wandering Educators, is a freelance writer, blogger, and avid traveler. She finds her life inspiration by exploring new places and meeting new people, and seeks to find magic in the most ordinary of places. When she's off the computer, she enjoys practicing yoga, training for marathons and scuba diving. Somewhere in there she also found time to write an eBook, 101 Tips to Living in Taiwan. She and her husband comprise the two lovebirds and digital nomads documenting their travel musings at http://acruisingcouple.com

All photos courtesy and copyright Casey Siemasko