Taiwan5 days
Mt. Nanhuda: Alpine Ridge Traverse — 5 Days
Hut-to-hut trekking across Shei-Pa National Park to Taiwan's fifth-highest summit, 3,742 metres
This five-day trek follows the high ridge of Shei-Pa National Park in northern Taiwan, moving between two mountain cabins and summiting Mt. Nanhuda at 3,742 metres. The route crosses alpine grasslands, traverses a distinctive series of rock peaks, and descends into a glacial cirque before returning to the trailhead. Accommodation is in staffed mountain cabins with evening meals provided; sleeping bags and guides are included throughout. The trek involves sustained elevation gain and exposed ridge sections but requires no rock climbing or technical gear.
Highlights
- Sunrise from Mt. Nanhuda (3,742 m), Taiwan's fifth-highest peak
- Twin glacial cirques visible from the alpine ridge
- The five rock peaks traverse above Nanhu Valley
- Hut-to-hut trekking with hot meals and sleeping bag rentals at Yunleng and Nanhu cabins
- Endemic Taiwan junipers and high-altitude grasslands
Day by day
1Taipei to Shei-Pa National Park TrailheadShei-Pa National Park Trailhead · Taipei Main Station · hiker's hostel
Meet at Taipei Main Station and drive to a hiker's hostel next to the trailhead. Settle in and prepare for tomorrow's ascent.
2Trailhead to Yunleng Cabin via Two Summitstrailhead · Yunleng Cabin · alpine grasslands
A 12-kilometre hike begins from the trailhead up to Yunleng Cabin. You will summit two intermediate peaks en route, traversing alpine grasslands as the ridge opens up. Arrive at Yunleng Cabin by late afternoon, where a hot meal is served. Sleeping bags and bedding are provided at the cabin.
3Yunleng Cabin to Nanhu Cabin: The Five Rock PeaksNanhu Cabin · Mt. Nanhubei · five rock peaks section · Nanhu Valley cirque
This 7-kilometre stage ascends steeply to Mt. Nanhubei, then traverses the distinctive five rock peaks section — a narrow, exposed ridge with significant drop-offs on both sides. From there, the route descends into Nanhu Valley cirque, where glacial formation is visible in the basin walls. Arrive at Nanhu Cabin by afternoon for dinner and overnight rest.
4Pre-Dawn Summit of Mt. NanhudaMt. Nanhuda · Yunleng Cabin
An early start allows you to reach the summit of Mt. Nanhuda (3,742 m) at sunrise, timing your arrival with the clearing of overnight mist. Optional side peaks can be explored if conditions and energy permit. Descend the same route back to Yunleng Cabin, arriving for an evening meal.
5Yunleng Cabin to Trailhead and Return to TaipeiYunleng Cabin to trailhead · trailhead · trailhead to Taipei
Descend 12 kilometres to the trailhead, then celebrate with a group lunch before driving back to Taipei.
Included
- Private round-trip van service from Taipei Main Station
- Licensed, experienced mountain guide services
- 4 nights accommodation (hostel & mountain cabins)
- 6 Meals (including meal service at both mountain cabins)
- National Park and Police Permit
- Sleeping bag rentals throughout trek
- Taxes, gratuities and Daily Liability Insurance
