Taiwan3 days
Snow Mountain Summit — Taiwan's Second Peak, 3 Days
Three days: High-altitude camp, black forest hike, and hot spring recovery in Shei-Pa National Park
This three-day trek ascends Taiwan's second-highest peak, Snow Mountain, staying overnight above 3,000 meters in high-altitude camps. The route moves through the black forest zone — a dense, high-altitude conifer ecosystem — before the pre-dawn summit attempt reaches the main peak by sunrise. The descent takes you through distinct forest bands, with a final soak in a private hot spring before returning to Taipei. The climb is sustained but non-technical; the rewards are views across Taiwan's central highlands and the possibility of spotting endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.
Highlights
- Summit Snow Mountain at sunrise for views across Taiwan's central highlands
- Camp overnight at 369 Campsite above 3,000 meters elevation under open sky
- Hike through the black forest, Taiwan's distinct high-altitude pine and fir ecosystem
- Spot Taiwan's endemic landlocked salmon, the highest-altitude salmon species on Earth, in alpine streams
- Soak in a private hot spring basin following the descent
- Observe Formosa macaques and munjac deer across multiple forest elevations
Day by day
1Taipei to 369 Campsite — High-Altitude Forest Ascent369 Campsite · Taipei Main Station · Shei-Pa National Park trailhead
Private transportation collects you from Taipei Main Station for the drive to Shei-Pa National Park trailhead. The day's seven-kilometer ascent enters high-altitude pine forest immediately through the afternoon. The trail ends at 369 Campsite, a tent encampment positioned at above 3,000m elevation. Dinner is served at camp. At this elevation, expect reduced oxygen availability, cooler temperatures, and clear night skies. A valid national park permit is required; this is arranged prior to departure.
2Snow Mountain Summit Through the Black ForestSnow Mountain · black forest · Qika Cabin
A pre-dawn start targets the main peak by sunrise. The 13-kilometer day climbs through dense high-altitude conifer forest where the canopy restricts direct sunlight. Wildlife including Formosa macaques and muntjac deer inhabit this zone, though sightings are not guaranteed. After reaching the summit and observing the surrounding peaks, descend to Qika Cabin for the night. Trail conditions are well-marked but steep in sections.
3Qika Cabin to Hot Spring — Final Descent and Recoverylocal hot spring facility · Taipei · Qika Cabin to the trailhead
A 2.2-kilometer hike descends from Qika Cabin back to the trailhead, arriving by mid-morning. The van meets you for transfer to a local hot spring facility where a private bath is available for soaking. The return drive to Taipei follows.
Seasonal Notes: This trek operates year-round. Winter routes may include snow and ice; technical climbing skills are not required, but sure footing and altitude acclimatization are essential. Spring and autumn offer stable weather. Permits, camping arrangements, and meals are included.
Where you go
- 1Taipei
Included
- Private round-trip van service from Taipei
- Licensed, experienced mountain guide services
- One night accommodation at 369 Campsite and one night at Qika Cabin
- 4 Meals (including meal service at campsite and cabin)
- Snow Mountain National Park Permit
- Tent and Sleeping Bag Rental at 369 Campsite
- Admission into Local Hot Spring post-hike
- Taxes, gratuities and Daily Liability Insurance