Zhuilu Old Road Overview
Zhuilu Old Road is an epic cliff trail in the mountains of Taroko Gorge, known as one of Taiwan’s best national parks.
Zhuilu is an impressive hike, likely one of the top hiking experiences in Asia, offering just the right level of difficulty along with a breathtaking combination of adrenaline and stunning scenery.
Moreover, organizing this hike on a budget is straightforward, and the spectacular views really justify every effort!
This guide will detail how to reach the trail, as well as everything else you need to know to prepare for your adventure!
History Of The Trail
Zhuilu began as a hunting path for indigenous tribes in Taiwan in the 1800s, utilized to access remote jungle areas for hunting wild boar and other wildlife.
The original path was a mere 30 centimeters (1 foot) wide! In the early 1900s, Japanese colonists discovered this trail and expanded it using local indigenous labor. With hand tools and dynamite, they undertook dangerous efforts to widen the trail to its present dimensions.
Artifacts from the Japanese presence still exist along Zhuilu, including a small Buddhist statue located in one of the rock tunnels along the hiking route.
After World War II, the trail transformed from a transportation route for moving weaponry to a multi-day hiking trail used predominantly by Taiwanese hikers. Currently, much of the trail is closed due to rockfalls, limiting it to day hikes.
Consequently, Zhuilu has gained international acclaim for providing some of the most breathtaking views of Taroko Gorge, featuring a sheer cliff that allows hikers to peer straight down into the 500-meter deep valley—surpassing the height of the Taipei 101 skyscraper!
Zhuilu Old Trail: What To Expect
Zhuilu is a moderate difficulty hike covering a distance of 3 kilometers (2 miles) each way, equating to a total of 6 kilometers (4 miles).
As the trail is an out-and-back route, expect to spend approximately 2 hours climbing up and around 1.5 hours descending. However, this duration may vary if you’re not accustomed to hiking. Notably, no technical skills are necessary for this trek.
The initial 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) require a steady climb out of the jungle and up the mountainside. Hence, it is advisable to bring sufficient water for this section.
The lush jungle provides intermittent glimpses of the mountain tops through the trees, featuring several bridge crossings and occasional tunnels.
The true highlight of this hike lies within the final 500 meters, where hikers traverse a narrow pathway alongside the cliff. Although the cliff can be intimidating, the path accommodates two hikers at all times.
Overall, this hike is very safe as long as you exercise caution and avoid reckless behavior. At the hike’s conclusion, a flat area awaits where you can enjoy snacks and drinks before embarking on your return journey.
Entry Requirements
Access to Zhuilu Old Trail is permitted only between 7 AM and 10 AM.
This regulation may seem strange; however, it is essential for ensuring the safety of all hikers. Logically, one could start the hike later and still complete it in good time.
Additionally, you must exit the trail by 5 PM. This requirement is practical as it ensures park staff can account for all hikers by the end of the day, enhancing overall safety.
Permit Information
A permit is mandatory for hiking Zhuilu Old Road.
Don’t let this deter you, as acquiring permits is relatively simple from the Taiwan national parks website.
It’s crucial to apply in advance, as the number of permits is limited per day and can sell out quickly. Park staff will check permits at the secured suspension bridge leading to the trail, so there is no bypassing this requirement.
On weekdays, only 96 permits are issued, increasing to 156 on weekends. Friday is considered part of the weekend. Given the trail’s popularity and narrower areas, this system helps manage crowds and maintain safety effectively. It’s a well-structured approach.
You will receive an email notification once your application is approved (typically within 24 hours), prompting you to print two copies of your permit and bring cash to pay the park staff upon arrival at the trailhead. While it is suggested to bring your passport, a picture of it is often acceptable.
Fees
Below are the current permit fees as of 2024:
- Adults: $200 NTD (~$7 USD)
- Children (6-12): $100 NTD
- Children (0-5): Free
How To Get There
Zhuilu Old Trail is located within Taroko Gorge National Park, situated in eastern Taiwan.
The trailhead is conveniently located next to the Swallow Grotto trail entrance (Yanzikou).
Upon entering the gate (which park staff will unlock for you), cross the large suspension bridge spanning the marble river gorge, and you’re on your way!
From Hualien
The Zhuilu Trail serves as a fantastic day trip from Hualien city, located in eastern Taiwan.
First, make your way to Hualien. Numerous budget-friendly flights and trains are available from Taipei, with flights taking about 1 hour at a cost of approximately $1,200 NTD ($40 USD), while train journeys are less than half that price—around $450 NTD. We opted for the train.
Staying at least a couple of nights in Hualien is advisable, allowing you to experience the Zhuilu hike and explore other attractions within Taroko Gorge. This location boasts stunning scenery, along with abundant dining and accommodation options in Hualien.
Taroko Gorge Bus
The most efficient means to travel from Hualien city to the Zhuilu trailhead is by bus.
Catch the Taroko 1133A bus at Hualien Station and disembark at the Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) stop. The bus station is the bright orange building adjacent to the Hualien Train Station entrance.
Complete timetables are available here, but they are in Chinese. Below is a transcription of the departure times from Hualien bus station:
- 7:00 AM
- 8:30 AM
- 9:10 AM
- 10:00 AM
- 11:10 AM
- 12:00 PM
- 1:20 PM
- 2:10 PM
- 3:10 PM
Keep in mind that only the 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM bus times allow adequate arrival to start the hike, given the entry time restrictions. It is advisable to opt for the 7:00 AM bus to accommodate any potential delays.
Upon boarding the bus (or visiting the bus station), you will receive a Taroko Gorge pamphlet containing the complete 1133A timetable in English. Surprisingly, this information isn’t readily accessible online except in Chinese, but having the printed pamphlet will be helpful.
A day pass for the bus can be purchased at the bus station or any 7-11 or FamilyMart in Taiwan for approximately $250 NTD ($8 USD). We acquired this pass at 7-11 the day before our hike, covering all bus costs for our hike day. Alternatively, payments can be made on the bus using EasyCard or cash.
Best Time To Visit
The ideal time to visit Hualien and Taroko Gorge is during the winter months, from November to April, characterized by reduced rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius).
While summer can also be an option, you should be prepared for increased heat and humidity, with temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius).
Happy travels, and enjoy your hiking adventure on the Zhuilu Old Road!
Where We Stayed
During our stay, we chose Xiong Zhi Mi B&B in Hualien city, paying $900 NTD ($30 USD) per night, and thoroughly enjoyed our experience.
This rate provided us with a clean double room equipped with a private bathroom and efficient air conditioning. Breakfast was included (along with complimentary cookies from the amiable staff!) and numerous excellent dining options were nearby.
The train station is just a 15-minute walk away, or you can easily take a taxi or scooter to navigate around. Note that room prices may fluctuate, so it is wise to keep an eye out for advantageous deals.
