(Photo credit: @jiapei_gowild)
Taitung, cradled between Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range and Coastal Mountain Range, is a sanctuary of diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the towering majesty of Jiaming Lake to the endless ridgelines, every feature tells a story of the Earth’s dramatic natural movements. Among these wonders, river tracing stands out not only as an adventure sport but also as a journey through geological time. As you navigate the streams, each step becomes a profound dialogue with nature. Hands grasp the smooth, time-worn walls of the gorge, feeling the delicate imprints of millennia of erosion. Feet tread on streambeds of polished pebbles and sturdy bedrock, alternating textures that echo the stream’s ancient story. As you move forward, the water surrounds you, cascading from every direction in a refreshing embrace, delivering nature’s purest energy and invigorating the soul with its timeless vitality.
(Photo credit: @phoenixhsnuchang)
Take Zhiben River as an example: its banks are lined with steep cliffs formed by undersea volcanic eruptions, thrust upward over eons. The creek carves through ancient basalt layers, etching mesmerizing patterns into the rock. River tracers navigating this natural wonderland find themselves in an open-air geological museum. The journey upstream offers dramatic experiences, from the powerful spray of waterfalls to moments of tranquil repose beside serene pools, encircled by verdant forests. During the heat of summer, the roots of century-old banyan trees drape over the canyon within the Zhiben Forest Recreation Area, providing natural shade. Along the creek, butterflies of various species flutter about, and, with a touch of luck, the endemic Japanese tree frog can be spotted gracefully swimming in the warm streams fed by the area’s famous hot springs. These unexpected encounters with wildlife infuse the adventure of river tracing with a sense of wonder and delight, making it an unforgettable experience.
(Photo credit: @airnekao )
Malaolou River offers a distinctly different geological charm. Its 1.16-kilometer-long gorge is a breathtaking display of interwoven igneous and sedimentary rock layers, creating a staircase-like terrain that invites exploration. As river tracers weave through the zigzagging paths, they pass through naturally carved stone caves, a testament to millennia of erosion and geological artistry. The journey culminates at Xingang Waterfall, poetically named the “Angel’s Tears.” Here, water cascades down from 540 meters above sea level, the droplets scattering into a spectrum of colors when kissed by sunlight, creating a mesmerizing rainbow mist.
(Photo credit: @airnekao )
While enjoying the thrills of mountain hiking and river tracing, adhering to the seven principles of “Leave No Trace” becomes especially critical. In a pristine environment like Taitung, the principle of “thorough planning and preparation” is particularly emphasized. According to the guidelines established by the Chinese Taipei Alpine Association, guides wishing to lead expeditions into mountain areas must possess professional wilderness knowledge. To support this, the association collaborates with organizations such as MT Tiger TW to regularly host wilderness guide training courses in Taitung. These courses have rigorous prerequisites: participants must have extensive hiking experience, including summiting over 20 of Taiwan’s “Hundred Peaks” or completing high-altitude multi-day treks lasting five days or more. This ensures that all guides entering Taitung’s wilderness are equipped with the expertise and safety awareness necessary to preserve the environment while safeguarding the well-being of their groups.
(Photo credit: 嘉明湖竑閩企業熊出沒團隊 )
In outdoor activities, it is essential to follow the principles of “proper waste disposal to protect the environment” and “leaving nature as it is”. The Taitung Forest District Office has introduced the innovative “Carry out one Kilogram for a Cleaner Forest” initiative, encouraging river tracers to carry out trash collected along their routes in addition to their equipment. This initiative emphasizes the responsibility of every visitor to pack out all items they bring, including waste, food scraps, and leftovers. This practice not only keeps the environment clean but also prevents attracting wildlife, which could disrupt the local ecosystem. By actively participating in such efforts, adventurers help preserve Taitung’s natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
(Photo credit: @sara432152 )
River tracing in Taitung is more than just a test of physical endurance and technical skill—it’s an opportunity to cultivate a deep respect for nature. By immersing ourselves in these experiences, we gain a profound understanding of the importance of environmental conservation and are inspired to become stewards of the wilderness. On this vibrant and life-filled land, every river tracing adventure is not only an unforgettable journey but also a dynamic lesson in ecology. It reminds us of the delicate balance of nature and our role in preserving its beauty for generations to come.
