Thursday, November 27, 2008

The monster trees of Taguanshan (China Post)

Taguanshan is one of Taiwan's most accessible 3,000-plus-meter-high peaks. Located right beside the highest stretch of the Southern Cross-Island Highway it can be scaled in just under two hours.

Chinese-language hiking guides refer to it as one of the "Three Stars of the Southern Cross-Island Highway." The other two are Kuhanuosinshan and Guanshanlingshan.

No technical climbing skills are required to get to the top of Taguanshan, just decent footwear and a strong pair of legs. Ropes and nets have been added to several points along the trail, but they're barely needed. You will, however, find yourself gripping roots and branches on the steeper sections.

Don't underestimate this mountain. Bring at least one liter of water per person, a few snacks, plus a waterproof jacket just in case the weather turns nasty. And, of course, tell someone where you're going and when you expect to get back...

The article is here. Several excellent photos can be seen here.

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