Nenggao (Neng-gao/Nengkao) Cross-island Trail Travel Information and Travel Guide - Taiwan

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Introducing Nenggao (Neng-gao/Nengkao) Cross-island Trail

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This 200-year-old high mountain trail (Nénggāo Yuèlǐng Guójiā Bùdào; trail.forest.gov.tw/NationalTrailSystem_En/TR_H_02.htm) was first used by the Taiya to help them ply the trade between Puli and Hualien. During the Japanese occupation it was expanded and used, ironically, to police aboriginal tribes. During the latter half of the 20th century, the path was expanded further by Taipower, which used it when laying high-voltage powerlines. (Hence you will sometimes also hear the trail called the ‘Nenggao Powerline Trail’).

Today the path offers a fantastically scenic hike for those really looking to get into the heart of the central mountains. Depending on how you tackle the trail, it is for the most part not terribly demanding for anyone in decent shape. From the trailhead at Tunyuan most people spend the first day walking to Tienchi (2860m). The elevation gain is 800m and it takes the average hiker about five or six hours to walk (allow three hours for the downhill return). Tienchi has a cabin where you’ll find beds, a kitchen and water. You can also camp.

Many hikers use Tienchi as a from whichbase to climb nearby peaks including Chilai South Peak (3358m) and Nenggaoshan North Peak (3184m). The trails to these peaks are not as well marked or as wide as the cross-island trail and are more demanding, but they can be done together on one long day with a return to Tienchi cabin. There’s also a beautiful high waterfall, just a few hundred metres from the cabin, that’s worth visiting.

On the second or third day most people return to Tunyuan to conclude their hike, but it’s also possible to continue on to Liyu Lake in Hualien County. The way is clear and takes about two days from Tienchi. Note that the second day from Tienchi you will be on paved surface the whole time. Fortunately, the way is downhill and there is almost no traffic. If you need them, there are buses at Liyu Lake to take you to Hualien city.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009