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Introducing Hehuanshan (Hohuanshan) Forest Recreation Area
The last interesting stop on Hwy 14 before the descent into Taroko Gorge is Hehuanshan (Héhuānshān Sēnlín Yóulè Qū; dongshih.forest.gov.tw; 049-280 2732). At over 3000m, the recreation area sits mostly above the tree line, and the bright, grassy green hills of the Mt Hehuan Range roll on and on, often disappearing into the fog or a spectacular sea of clouds.
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Hwy14 passes right through the park and at Wuling saddle (not to be confused with the forest recreation area called Wuling) it reaches the highest elevation of any road in Taiwan at 3275m. It snows up here in winter and when it does the road becomes a skating rink, parking lot and playground for the Taiwanese so expect crowds then.
Summer is delightfully cool, and highly scenic as different alpine flowers bloom from May to September. Autumn and spring are excellent times for hiking. In the autumn the ‘sea of clouds’ formations are at their best.
Despite its chilly temperatures (12°C average) Hehuanshan has a remarkable amount of plant and animal life to admire. It’s even considered a good spot for birding. Check out the website for details.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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