Shei-Pa National Park

Shei-Pa Overview

Shei-Pa National Park, known as 雪霸國家公園 (Xuě Bà Guójiā Gōngyuán) in Mandarin, is one of Taiwan’s premier natural preserves, covering an area of approximately 293 square miles (759 square kilometers). Located in the central part of the island, the park straddles Hsinchu, Miaoli, and Taichung counties. Its name derives from its two towering peaks, Xueshan (Snow Mountain) and Daba Mountain, which dominate the park’s landscape and symbolize its rugged, untamed beauty. The park’s elevation ranges dramatically from 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) to over 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) at the summit of Xueshan, the second-highest peak in Taiwan.

The terrain in Shei-Pa National Park is characterized by jagged mountain ranges, deep valleys, dense forests, and alpine meadows. The park’s diverse ecosystems reflect its varying altitudes, from subtropical lowlands to alpine tundra. Lush coniferous forests blanket much of the higher elevations, with Taiwan cypress, hemlock, and fir trees standing tall. Lower altitudes feature broadleaf evergreen forests, and during spring, vibrant cherry blossoms and rhododendrons add bursts of color to the landscape. The terrain is also dotted with waterfalls such as Cuei Pond and Snow Mountain Falls, adding to the park’s dramatic scenery.

Shei-Pa is a haven for wildlife, hosting many species that are endemic to Taiwan. Iconic mammals include the Formosan black bear, a symbol of Taiwan’s wilderness, and the Formosan macaque. Sambar deer, Reeves’ muntjac, and the elusive clouded leopard are also notable residents. Bird enthusiasts flock to Shei-Pa to catch glimpses of Taiwan’s endemic avian species, such as the Mikado pheasant and Swinhoe’s pheasant, both of which are stunningly colorful. Raptors like the crested goshawk and black kite soar over the park’s cliffs and valleys.

Visitors to Shei-Pa National Park are drawn to its challenging hiking trails, which provide opportunities to engage deeply with its pristine environment. The Snow Mountain Trail, one of the most popular routes, offers a challenging ascent to the peak and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Other trails, such as the Dabajian Mountain Trail, showcase unique geological formations and cultural relics of Taiwan’s indigenous Atayal people. Birdwatching, stargazing, and camping are also popular activities, as the park’s remote location ensures minimal light pollution and rich biodiversity.

Shei-Pa National Park faces several conservation challenges, including climate change, which threatens its fragile alpine ecosystems, and human activities, such as illegal hunting and deforestation. However, Taiwan’s government and conservation organizations have achieved notable successes in habitat restoration and the protection of endangered species like the Formosan landlocked salmon. Efforts to balance ecological preservation with sustainable tourism have helped maintain Shei-Pa as a model for conservation in Taiwan.

Park Map

Shei-Pa National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Shei-Pa National Park, located in the northern part of Taiwan, is a haven of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and pristine rivers. It is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife, including many species unique to Taiwan. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a rich array of fauna, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Formosan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus formosanus)
The Formosan Black Bear, Taiwan’s largest carnivorous mammal, is an iconic species of Shei-Pa National Park. Recognizable by its crescent-shaped white patch on the chest, this elusive bear inhabits the dense forests of the park.

Taiwan Serow (Capricornis swinhoei)
This small, goat-like antelope is an endemic species of Taiwan. Agile and sure-footed, the Taiwan serow is often seen navigating the rocky terrains of the park.

Formosan Macaque (Macaca cyclopis)
The only primate native to Taiwan, the Formosan macaque is highly intelligent and social. It thrives in the forested areas of Shei-Pa National Park.

Formosan Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor swinhoii)
A subspecies of sambar deer, this large herbivore roams the park’s forests and open meadows. It is known for its impressive antlers and shy demeanor.

Taiwan Yellow-throated Marten (Martes flavigula chrysospila)
This lively carnivore, adorned with a striking yellow throat and chest, is a proficient climber often spotted in Shei-Pa’s forests.

Taiwan Wild Boar (Sus scrofa taivanus)
A smaller subspecies of the Eurasian wild boar, the Taiwan wild boar is a critical part of the park’s ecosystem, known for its foraging habits.

Taiwanese Red Muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi micrurus)
Also called the barking deer, this small, solitary deer is often heard before it is seen, with its bark-like calls echoing through the forest.

Formosan Ferret-Badger (Melogale moschata subaurantiaca)
This nocturnal species is a unique member of Taiwan’s wildlife. It is known for its distinctive black and white facial markings.

Taiwan Asiatic Frog (Rana sauteri)
This amphibian is an endemic species that thrives in the park’s moist environments, playing a vital role in the ecosystem as both predator and prey.

Taiwan Endemic Bat Species
Several bat species, such as the Formosan tube-nosed bat, inhabit Shei-Pa’s caves and forests, contributing to insect control and pollination.

Birds

Shei-Pa National Park is also a sanctuary for bird enthusiasts, offering a diverse avian population with numerous endemic species. The park’s elevation and varied habitats make it a hotspot for birdwatching.

Mikado Pheasant (Syrmaticus mikado)
This striking bird, with its iridescent blue plumage, is one of Taiwan’s most iconic endemic species and a symbol of the country’s rich biodiversity.

Swinhoe’s Pheasant (Lophura swinhoii)
Known for its vibrant colors and graceful movements, Swinhoe’s pheasant is another endemic gem frequently sighted in Shei-Pa.

Taiwan Blue Magpie (Urocissa caerulea)
Nicknamed the “long-tailed mountain lady,” this endemic magpie is famous for its vivid blue feathers and social behavior.

Taiwan Partridge (Arborophila crudigularis)
A secretive ground-dwelling bird, this partridge is endemic to Taiwan and thrives in the dense undergrowth of the park.

Formosan Yuhina (Yuhina brunneiceps)
Small and agile, the Formosan yuhina is known for its cheerful calls and preference for forested areas.

Taiwan Barbet (Psilopogon nuchalis)
Adorned with a colorful head and neck, this endemic bird is often heard before it is seen due to its loud, repetitive calls.

Steere’s Liocichla (Liocichla steerii)
This vividly colored bird is an endemic species often found in the mid-elevation forests of Shei-Pa.

Taiwan Bush Warbler (Locustella alishanensis)
A secretive and well-camouflaged bird, the Taiwan bush warbler can be heard singing its melodic tunes in the park’s dense vegetation.

Collared Bush Robin (Tarsiger johnstoniae)
This small, vibrant robin is an endemic species commonly found in the higher elevations of Shei-Pa.

White-whiskered Laughingthrush (Trochalopteron morrisonianum)
Endemic to Taiwan, this bird is often spotted in flocks, foraging noisily through the park’s forests.

Shei-Pa National Park’s wildlife diversity offers a glimpse into the unique ecosystems of Taiwan, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.