Pingxi Hikes

Pingxi is a small village about 20km to the east of Taipei.  It’s nestled in a particularly beautiful valley between two craggy mountain ridges.  The town itself is worth a few minutes of exploring, and is the site of a very beautiful lantern festival every February, but the main attraction to us are the dozens of trails that crisscross those craggy mountains.

This is one of our favorite places to hike around.   The area could also be combined into an overnight trip by staying in nearby Jiufen and then heading to the beach, or anywhere else on the Northeast Coast for more hiking or coastal exploration.

TYPICAL ITINERARY

Honestly, there are so many trails in this area that there almost isn’t a “Typical Itinerary”.   Trails begin close to the main village and range in difficulty and length.

One mountain called Xiaozishan actually radiates several trails from a center point.  The day can be spent hiking up a trail, back down to the same point, then up an adjacent trail again.  Several of those trails lead to higher points along the southern ridge and can easily be turned into a full, or half-day hike.

All around this area you can find needle-like peaks, dense areas of forest, exposed razor-like ridges and crystal clear streams to cool off in.  The mountains also harbor some interesting cultural attractions including abandoned mines and temples, Japanese era bridges and check points and even some caves with Taoist places of worship inside.

GRADING AND FITNESS

Difficulty – 2 to 4 (out of 5)       Duration – Half day to full day

All of the trails are moderate, but become difficult if wet.  They may also include the navigation of ropes, rope ladders and/or exposed cliffs.  Few of the trails are paved, but most are well taken care of and are in good condition.

PRICING

Private trips start at $12,800TWD for groups of 1 to 3 people. Each additional person is $2,625TWD.

TRANSPORTATION

Private transportation is provided from anywhere in Taipei or the Taipei/Taoyuan Airport to the mountain.  Pickups in other locations can be arranged, sometimes for a small extra fee.  Vehicles are insured; Drivers are licensed; and traffic rules are obeyed.

FOOD

All the main meals are provided for the hike.  Clients only need to bring their own snacks.  If you have any special dietary requests, allergies, or needs, let us know and we’ll be happy to accommodate you.

LEADERS AND SAFETY

All of our leaders are Wilderness First Responder certified and carry first aid kits.  They have all spent a lot of time hiking in Taiwan and are very experienced in the high mountains.  All of our leaders are native speakers of English, but also speak Mandarin and are very knowledgeable about the local mountains, flora/fauna, and culture.

Contact Us for More Information