Trips Taiwan

Yushan & Syue Shan Trek

This is a combination trek of the highest and second highest mountains in Taiwan.

Yushan (玉山 ) is situated in the Yushan National Park and soars 3952 meters (12,962 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak on the island and in north east Asia.

The Shei-Pa National Park contains some of the most well-known and spectacular peaks in Taiwan, amongst which are Syue Mountain ( Snow Mountain 雪山 ) ) which ranks second highest in Taiwan at 3886 meters.

Both mountains are relatively easy treks as far as terrain is concerned although good fitness is essential to a successful completion. We shall trek Yushan first before climbing Syue Shan.

Standard Inclusions:
* Local airport transfers ( airport coaches )
* Local land transfers: city <-> trailhead ( private charter bus or van )
* Full accommodation arrangement: basic no-frills budget hotels in Taichung & Taipei, and mountain dormitory hostel on trek
* Full mountain trekking arrangement ( including Class A mountain climbing permit, experienced local mountain guide, meals, and park entry fees )

Bonus Inclusions:
* Free GCS to tune up your fitness to the desired level
* Experienced Singapore Trek Leader from BOAC for group of 10 persons or more

Exclusions:
* International flights & all airport taxes
* All meals & beverages during trip, except for meals which are included in the trek package arrangement
* Travel insurance, medical immunizations, personal travel / trekking gear

The most suitable times for climbing Snow Mountain are from October to December and March to April. From January to February snow often blocks the trails completely; from April to May is the rainy season, when violent rainstorms contribute to landslides; and from June to September is the typhoon season, when high winds across the mountain face are dangerous to climbers. The average yearly temperature at altitudes above 3,500 meters ( 11,483 feet ) is 5 degrees Celsius; above 2,500 meters ( 8,202 feet ) it is 10 degrees C.

Wildlife present in the vicinity of the mountain includes Taiwan black bear, deer, squirrels, white-faced flying squirrels, newts, and frogs. There are also a number of rare shrubs, such as the Taiwan sassafrass, and 61 types of flowering plants, including the impatiens flower and ground-covering fragrant grasses, orchids, and many types of alpine flowers. The area is famous for a rare and nearly extinct species of fish called the landlocked salmon (also called brook masu salmon) which used to range in rivers all across the area of the current national park but is now restricted to one small stretch of unpolluted water in the Chichiawan Creek.

Self-sufficiency and good personal outdoor gear is required and essential for an enjoyable outing. With temperatures expected to be -7deg Celsius ( or lower ) with strong wind and possible rainfall, hikers need to be well-equipped with layers of good waterproofs ( both top and bottom ), quality insulation clothing ( fleece jackets, pants, gloves and warm hat ), and synthetic thermal wear ( either polyester or polypropylene fabrics ). Hiking boots with good ankle-support, synthetic socks and knee guards are essential for those with weak knees. Sleeping bags are not provided and these need to be brought along. To carry all these, a good backpack is essential as it’ll make the difference between comfortable carrying or a miserable & painful time on the trail as long trekking hours are to be expected.

Trekkers also need to carry their own personal gear on the trek. For those who’re unable to or unwilling carry a heavy backpack, portage service are available but very costly at about NT 3500 to NT 4000 ( S$ 150 to S$ 200 ) per day. So best to tune up your fitness levels by training hike with a moderately heavy backpack ( 8-12kg ) before your trip for a few hours each week.