Giant Tree Trails in Alishan

Part of the Alishan travel guide — see every topic in All Alishan Guides.

The forest is the heart of Alishan. Above 2,000 metres, the mountains are covered in cool, misty woods of red cypress, hinoki cypress, hemlock and other conifers. Many of the biggest trees were cut during the logging era, but some giants survived, and the forest has grown back around them. A network of boardwalks and paths links the giant trees, ponds and viewpoints. It is easy walking, and it is the best way to spend a slow morning at Alishan.

The Giant Tree Trail

The Giant Tree Trail is a wooden boardwalk that winds between some of the oldest trees in the area. Signs give each tree a number, its estimated age and its height. Several are thought to be well over a thousand years old. Their trunks are wide, and many are covered in moss and ferns. The boardwalk is flat or gently sloping, so it suits most visitors, including older people and children. Early morning is best, when mist drifts between the trunks and the trail is quiet.

Red cypress and the forest

Taiwan red cypress and Taiwan hinoki cypress are the two great trees of this forest. Both are native to Taiwan and grow slowly in the cool, wet mountains. Their wood is fragrant, strong and resistant to rot, which is why it was so valued for building. During the logging era, huge numbers were cut and carried down by the railway. Today the remaining old trees are protected, and young forest is growing back. As you walk, look at the old stumps among the trees. Some have new trees growing out of them.

Sisters Ponds and the trail loop

The Sisters Ponds are two small ponds in the forest, a larger one and a smaller one, linked by paths. The larger pond has small wooden pavilions on islands. They are a calm stop on the main walking loop, which joins the giant trees, the ponds, several gardens and old logging sites. The loop takes about two to three hours at an easy pace, with many places to rest. Paths are well signed. You can join the loop from the main village, from the Shenmu stop on the forest railway, or from the Zhaoping area.

Birds and wildlife

The high forest is home to many birds found only in Taiwan. Early mornings are the best time to see them. Look and listen for colourful species such as the Taiwan barwing, the Steere's liocichla and the white-eared sibia. Squirrels are common along the paths, and Formosan rock macaques sometimes appear in the trees. Do not feed any animals, as it harms them and can make them aggressive. A small pair of binoculars and a field guide will make your walk much richer.

Walking tips

The area sits at around 2,200 metres. Some visitors feel short of breath at first, so walk slowly and drink water. The forest is often damp, and boardwalks can be slippery after rain or in fog. Wear shoes with good grip. Weather changes fast, so carry a light rain jacket and a warm layer even on sunny days. Paths are busy from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, when day-trip tour groups arrive. Stay overnight to walk in the quiet hours. Take all rubbish with you, as there are few bins along the trails.

Giant Tree Trails at a glance

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