Taroko National Park

Taroko Overview

Taroko National Park, established in 1986, is one of Taiwan’s most awe-inspiring natural treasures, located on the eastern coast of the island, spanning the municipalities of Hualien, Taichung, and Nantou. The park covers an area of about 920 square kilometers (approximately 355 square miles), encompassing a rich diversity of geological features, ecosystems, and cultural heritage sites. Named after the Taroko Gorge, the park’s centerpiece, Taroko National Park is renowned for its towering marble cliffs, deep gorges, and rushing rivers that have carved their way through the landscape over millennia.

The park’s dramatic terrain is a result of the collision between the Philippine and Eurasian tectonic plates, which has pushed the marble and limestone up to the surface, creating the breathtaking scenery for which Taroko is famous. The Liwu River cuts through the heart of the park, forming the spectacular Taroko Gorge, a narrow ravine lined with precipitous cliffs and adorned with waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Taroko National Park offers a multitude of scenic trails and attractions for visitors, from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Tunnel of Nine Turns, Swallow Grotto, and the Eternal Spring Shrine are among the must-see sights, offering accessible paths and stunning views of the gorge’s natural beauty. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including several endangered species such as the Formosan black bear and the Formosan macaque.

In addition to its natural wonders, Taroko National Park is steeped in cultural history, with indigenous tribes such as the Truku people having inhabited the area for centuries. Their legacy and the park’s natural beauty are celebrated and preserved, making Taroko a place of both ecological and cultural significance.

For nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to experience the majestic landscapes of Taiwan, Taroko National Park offers an unforgettable journey through one of the island’s most spectacular natural wonders.