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

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!

📍 Location In Taroko National Park, Xiulin Township, Hualien County ⸻ 🚗 Transportation • Driving by yourself: Starting from Hualien City, go north along Provincial Highway 9 and turn onto Provincial Highway 8 (Central Cross-Island Highway). It takes about 40 minutes to drive to the Taroko National Park Administration. The trail entrance is near Yanzikou. • Public Transportation: Take the Taiwan Railway to Xincheng (Taroko) Station. After exiting the station, you can transfer to Hualien Bus or taxi to Taroko National Park. The journey takes about 30 minutes.  ⸻ 📝 Personal experience Zhuilu Historic Trail, with a total length of approximately 10.3 kilometers, is located in Taroko National Park. It is a classic trail that combines history and natural landscapes. The trail is built along the cliffs of the Liwu River Canyon. Some sections are only about 1 meter wide. There are guardrails along the way, but you still need to pay attention to safety. Walking on it, there is a bottomless canyon under your feet and the sound of rushing stream in your ears, which makes your heart beat faster.  Along the trail, you can see the traditional settlement sites of the Taroko people and feel the traces of the life of the aborigines. In addition, there are many viewing platforms on the trail, from which you can overlook the magnificent scenery of the Liwu Valley. Especially in the early morning or evening, the scenery is picturesque with clouds and mist. As some sections of the trail are narrow and have height differences, it is recommended to wear suitable hiking shoes and bring enough water and food. In addition, you need to apply for a mountain entry permit in advance to enter the Zhuilu Ancient Trail, so please be sure to complete the relevant procedures in advance. #AprilDestinations2025 #TaiwanAttractions #HualienItinerary

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 The Zhuilu Ancient Trail is part of the Hehuan Mountain Crossing Ancient Trail, and in earlier times it was an important route connecting the various tribes of the Taroko people. In recent years, in order to cooperate with the promotion of eco-tourism and the preservation of historical sites, the 10.3-kilometer ancient trail has been gradually restored. Currently, only the first 3.1 kilometers, from the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge to the Cliff Station, are open to the public. An application is required to enter the mountain and the park. Zhuilu is located across the river from the Fuji Cliff. It is about 1.2 kilometers long and 600 meters high. It is composed entirely of marble blocks. Due to the continuous uplift of the terrain and the strong erosion and cutting action of the Liwu River, the southeastern edge of the Triangle Zhui Mountain was cut through, and the marble was not easy to collapse, thus forming a steep cliff. This section is the highlight of the ancient trail and offers a panoramic view of the magnificent scenery of the Taroko Gorge. The Zhuilu Ancient Trail was hit hard again by the earthquake and is still closed. I wonder when it will reopen? I still miss the secret place of Taroko - Hualien Zhuilu Historic Trail!

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.

#OctoberGoodDestinations2024 Zhuilu Ancient Trail is a green ancient trail full of history and natural beauty, allowing people to feel the charm of nature and the charm of the ancient trail while hiking. The environment here is quiet, the trees are lush, and there are various vegetation on both sides of the trail, which makes people feel happy. 🍃 Walking along the ancient trail, you will find that there are many historical relics preserved here, ancient stone steps and ancient trees, which seem to be telling stories of the past. Every step is full of the fun of exploration, making people want to learn about the history of this ancient trail. 🏞️ During your walk, you can stop at any time to observe the surrounding wildlife. This is a paradise for eco-lovers, with many birds and insects living here. 🦋

#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!

Location: No. 291, Fushi Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County Introduction: The only preserved historical trail in Taroko Park. The history can be traced back to the Japanese era. The Hehuan Mountain Crossing Road was dug by the Japanese at that time in order to manage the indigenous people. The whole course is ten kilometers. Currently, only 3.1 kilometers are open for some reason, and you have to return along the original route. Opening hours: 7:00-10:00 admission. You must leave the park before 15:40 in the afternoon Tickets: Free, you must first apply for admission on the Taroko website Experience: Zhuilu Ancient Trail is the most stunning trail I have ever climbed. Although it was tiring, the scenery was very beautiful. It is also an ancient road with historical origins. Here you can enjoy the spectacular Taroko Gorge and have an unobstructed view of the entire Taroko Gorge. It is recommended that you have a habit of exercising before trying this challenge. #familytravel #localtravel #goodplaceforfamily #localtravelinTaiwan #Hualien #Zhuilu Ancient Trail