Shakadang

Two hours train ride on the express train from Taipei is a city called Hualien which has the Taroko Gorge National Park.

The train itself is fast, clean, good looking and goes over 125kmph. The train stations are clean and also have a lot of food spots.

As you get out from train station to the city, you see a nice picture spot that most cities have now a days, for people to pose and remember that they have visited that city.

Next to the train station is the bus stop where almost every half hour you can catch a very comfortable bus, which can take you to the national park visitor center for a very nominal fee.

At the park grounds, there are many sculptures, notably that of the original tribe named Truko, on which the name "Taroko" is based.

Right at the entrance one can see the many mountain ranges and the riverbed of the Shakadang river.

The visitor center has many exhibits, large TV screens showing the flora and fauna of the area.

Following the signs to the Shakadang trail, in about a mile, you come to a series of steps and a hanging bridge surrounded by dense forest.

As you keep walking, you are treated to a very beautiful picturesque view of a railroad bridge spanning the Shakadang River.

The river is deep and wide at some points and keeps going through huge granite rocks.

There is a paved path next to the river which allows for an 8km hike in this very serene environment. many parts of the hike have over hanging mountain and signs warning hikers to watch out for falling rocks.

At some points the water is not too deep, and the water is so clean and clear that you can hardly see the water above the riverbed. All throughout the hike, you can hear the birds chirping, and butterflies flying around.

Halfway to the end point of the hike, there is a small village with vendors selling lemonade, water and different types of freshly made mochis, three for 100 NT$, about. $3.25.

After walking another mile or so, you see the end of trail marker.

The return hike is just retracing your steps and you see many hikers as it is a popular spot.

The hike is short, about 5 miles with 500 feet climb that includes all the staircases, and it is as scenic as it is peaceful.