[2025 Hualien Attraction] Travel Guide for Zhuilu Old Road (Updated Feb)

Visiting Taroko Gorge is easy, but visiting ZhuiLu Old Trail is much more challenging! You need to apply for a permit well in advance, on weekdays less then 100 people get entry permit, so I recommend to apply as early as possible. Second, it's the only place in Taroko you need to pay entrance fee (200TWD). If you use public transportation get of at YanZi Kou, you need to register between 7-10a.m later you can't enter just exit. The walk is not very challenging, an average sporty person can do it. We saw even small children. If you have vertigo, maybe this trail is not for you otherwise really cool!

Zhuilu Old Trail was once a beautiful path for us to explore nature and feel history. Over time, this ancient trail has carried countless footprints and stories. However, the recent earthquake has filled my heart with emotion, as the former scenery is no more, and the once winding trail has now disappeared into the Taroko Gorge. In the summer of 2022, we walked on the old trail, with birds chirping so pleasantly. The dense forest and the clear stream in the gorge allowed us to feel the pulse of nature with every step. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, accompanied by the songs of birds and the whispers of the wind. It was a carefree time that cleansed the soul. However, the old trail, which has not yet recovered from the earthquake, fills me with sadness. After the earthquake on April 3, 2024, the old trail was shattered, and the lifeline of the river was forever altered. The once resilient trail, having endured the ravages and choices of nature, now lies in ruins. I can't help but sigh, this is the cycle of nature, and it is also a reminder of our reverence for nature. Although we cannot reverse this force, I know that the hope of rebuilding still exists. This land carries not only the beauty of nature but also the memories and emotions of people. I am fortunate to have visited such a beautiful Taiwan before the earthquake, deepening my connection with this land. The recovery process may be long, but I believe that one day the Zhuilu Old Trail will regain its vitality. After this disaster, we will cherish this intimate relationship with nature even more. I hope that in the future, I can reunite with old friends on this trail, share our stories, and welcome a new old trail.

#myhiddengems For thrill-seekers and nature lovers, the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko Gorge offers one of the most exhilarating hiking experiences in Taiwan. This ancient trail, carved into the cliffside, provides stunning views of the marble-walled canyon and the Liwu River far below. Stretching about 10.3 kilometers, the trail winds through lush forests, narrow pathways, and sheer drops, offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure that is both challenging and rewarding. Hikers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the gorge from start to finish, with the trail often narrowing to just a meter wide with a vertical drop on one side, making it not for the faint-hearted. Along the way, you’ll pass through tunnels and over old suspension bridges, remnants of the Japanese colonial era. The sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled beauty of the surroundings make every step worth it. Due to its challenging nature and the need for a permit, Zhuilu Old Trail remains a less crowded option compared to other parts of Taroko, offering a more intimate connection with nature. The experience is not just about the hike; it’s about pushing your limits and immersing yourself in the wild, untouched beauty of Taiwan’s most famous national park.

#gohiking The Zhuilu Old Trail is a breathtaking hiking trail in Taroko National Park, Taiwan. This ancient path, once used by the indigenous Truku people, offers a unique and immersive experience. The trail winds through lush forests, alongside towering cliffs, and across suspension bridges, providing stunning views of the Liwu River below. With its rich history, diverse flora, and challenging terrain, the Zhuilu Old Trail is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Be prepared for a physically demanding hike, but the scenery and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort. A truly unforgettable experience!