Following the devastating earthquake on April 3, 2024, many trails and scenic spots in the gorge section of Taroko National Park sustained severe damage. After ongoing restoration efforts, the following areas and resources are now open to the public:

 

1. Taroko Terrace and Visitor Center: Visitors can obtain up-to-date recreation information, watch films, and view special exhibitions. The Taroko Terrace Trail offers opportunities to observe local flora, fauna, and insects at a leisurely pace.

2. Tianxiang Recreation Area:  Partial trails including the Tianxiang Visitor Center, Tabido Trail, and Xiangde Temple area are open. Visitors can enjoy the natural ecosystem, observe wildlife, and learn about the history of the Truku people.

3. Lushui Recreation Area:

Starting from February 1, 2026, partial sections of the Lushui Trail and Lushui–Wenshan Trail will be open.

Grade 1 Trail: Lushui Trail (Partially Open)

Starting from Lushui, the trail is open up to the Small Suspension Bridge, approximately 250 meters from the starting point. Visitors are required to return via the same route.

Estimated walking time is about 15 minutes one way and approximately 30 minutes round trip.

Grade 3 Trail: Lushui–Wenshan Trail (Partially Open)

Starting from Lushui, the trail is open up to Tuoyouen, approximately 450 meters from the starting point. This is a challenging route with many uphill sections. Visitors are advised to carefully assess their physical condition before setting out. Please return via the same route.

Estimated walking time is about 30 minutes one way and approximately 1 hour round trip.

4. Scenic Sites West of Xibao: Visitors may stop or hike at the following locations: Xibao Community, Luoshao Community, Guanyuan Recreation Area, Xiaofengkou Recreation Area, Mt. Hehuan North Peak Trail, Xiaoqilai Trail, Mt. Shimen Trail, Mt. Hehuan East Peak Trail, and the Wuling Viewing Platform.

5. Chongde Recreation Area: This well-known viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Qingshui Cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. The area has been reopened to the public following safety improvements and repair work. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the ocean breeze, catch the stunning sunrise, or admire the moonlight over the sea. (Reopened on July 1, 2025)

6. Tongli (Dali-Datong) Settlement: This Truku tribal village has reopened following cooperative restoration efforts between local residents and the Taroko N. P. HQ. Visitors are welcome to hike to the village, challenge themselves physically, and experience Truku lifestyle and culture. (Reopened on July 1, 2025)

7. Mountain-Sea Cultural Excursions: In collaboration with local communities, the Taroko N. P. HQ is promoting regional tourism. 

⚠️ Notice: The Shakadang Trail remains closed due to severe damage caused by the April 3rd earthquake. For your safety, do not enter the closed section of the trail from Dali or Datong Village.

Highlights include: 

Chongde Settlement: Views of Qingshui Cliffs from Chongde Beach, indigenous crafts, and local cuisine.

Fushi Settlement: Truku Cultural and Creative Industry Park and Asia Cement Ecological Park.

Xincheng Old Street: Unique architecture, local shops, and the Xincheng Seawall.

Sanzhan–Bradan Settlement: Another indigenous community rich in culture and natural beauty.

 

Although Provincial Highway No. 8 has been reopened to traffic since August 2024, it remains under time-restricted access due to ongoing road construction. Daily traffic is released five times: 07:00–08:00, 10:00-10:05, 12:00–13:00, 15:00-15:05 and 16:30–17:30. From 17:30 to 18:00, vehicles are allowed to exit but not enter, and the highway is closed at night. Road surfaces and guardrails have not yet been fully repaired, and the risk of falling rocks remains high, especially after heavy rain or earthquakes. Entry is not advised unless absolutely necessary.  It is recommended not to enter the gorge section on foot or by bicycle.

 

Additionally, while park facilities are gradually being restored, geological risks persist. The Central Cross-Island Highway and adjacent sites—such as the Shakadang Trail, Yanzikou (Swallow Grotto), Buluowan Terrace, Zhuilu Old Road, and Jiuqudong (Tunnel of Nine Turns), and Baiyang trails — remain closed for reconstruction. Visitors are advised to respect all safety regulations, only visit areas that are officially open, and not enter restricted zones.

To ensure a safe visit, it is recommended to follow the principle of "go up the mountain early, descend early," to avoid unpredictable afternoon weather changes. Please also be mindful of highway traffic control times and check the latest updates on the "Highway Bureau 168 Real-Time Road Conditions" platform or the "Happy Highway App" before departure to avoid missing release times or delaying your itinerary.

 

It is recommended to take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Route 310) from the Hualien Bus Station, Xincheng Railway Station, or Taroko Visitor Center. The bus route passes by Qixingtan (Beach) and ends at the Taroko Visitor Center, then returns along the same route back to Hualien bus station. Visitors using electronic payment cards such as the Taipei Metro EasyCard, iPass, or iCash or any other forms of electronic payment can enjoy discounted bus fares as part of a promotional offer. Passengers paying in cash must prepare the exact amount, as no change will be given.

Currently, bus service between the Taroko Visitor Center and Tianxiang (through Taroko Gorge) remain temporarily suspended. Visitors planning to travel to Tianxiang must arrange their own transportation and check the Highway 8 traffic control 5 times daily release windows before your trip.

The Taroko 302 e-Bus, operated by Taroko bus company, departs from Xincheng Train Station to the Taroko Visitor Center (National Park Headquarters) and then returns on the same route to Xincheng Train Station. 


NOTE:
All bus services between the Taroko Visitor Center and Tianxiang (the Taroko Gorge section) remain temporarily suspended. Visitors plan to hike in Tianxiang area must have own transportation and check the Highway 8 traffic control 5 times daily release windows. 

For more information regarding the April 3, 2024 earthquake, please refer to FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions), Question 3, “Suggestion 2,” to replan your itinerary, or see Questions 1–4 for details on re-planning your trip.