Author Moty
Editor Tzu Hsuan Chan
Any plan for this summer? Why not put down your phone and dive into the thrilling world of river tracing? Beyond the trekking and scenic views, river tracing offers a variety of activities like rappelling, sliding, rafting, and cliff jumping, depending on the unique characteristics of each stream. It’s a good idea to jot down the following recommended river tracing spots in Taiwan. But remember, to fully enjoy these adventures, it’s safer to go with a certified instructor and team!
新北｜老梅溪 Laomei River, New Taipei
Located at Shimen, Laomei River is formed from the Daiton Mountain’s waterways, featuring deep pools carved by waterfalls. This makes it a perfect spot for diving, rappelling, and rock climbing, suitable for families and beginners. Notably, Laomei Creek has a wider river surface, allowing you to enjoy both the sun’s warmth and the river’s coolness.
新北｜加九寮溪 Jiajiuliao River, New Taipei
Jiajiuliao River, next to the Red River Valley in Xindian, Wulai, offers aquatic and terrestrial routes, making it a popular choice for beginners. This river features natural waterfalls, rapids, deep pools, and sand dams, with a sand dam about the height of a building that’s a favorite spot for many visitors to jump off. The terrain near the upper catchment area of the Feitsui Reservoir is relatively gentle, making it ideal for first-timers.
桃園｜宇內溪 Yunei River, Taoyuan
Venture into the heart of Fuxing District and discover Yunei River, Taoyuan’s only legally sanctioned river for recreational water activities. Renowned for its breathtaking Baisha Waterfall and captivating canyon scenery, Uinai River promises an unforgettable experience for avid adventurers.
Baisha Waterfall, cascading over 40 meters, reigns supreme as the largest and most spectacular waterfall in the area. While reaching this natural wonder may prove challenging for beginners or casual visitors, under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll conquer a series of exhilarating challenges, including rock climbing, deep pools, and natural waterslides, leaving you with an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.
Please note: Due to ongoing improvement works, the Yunei River recreational area will remain temporarily closed for an amount of time. Save this place now and you’ll be able to go there when it is re-opened.
新竹｜梅花溪 Meihua River, Hsinchu
Meihua River in Jianshi Township, Hsinchu County, offers a variety of activities like rafting, jumping, rappelling, swimming across deep pools, climbing, rushing through waterfalls, and exploring water caves—all within a short tracing route. Even the non-swimmers will not have to worry as the creek is shallow enough to stand in almost throughout, making it beginner-friendly.
台中｜松鶴溪 Songhe River, Taichung
Looking for a place to cool off in Taichung? Songhe River in Heping District is a tributary of the Dajia River. The tracing route includes swimming in deep pools, ascending rapids, and jumping into a deep pool from high above, with views of canyons, waterfalls, and pools along the way. Songhe Creek’s gentle waters are perfect not just for groups of friends but also for families, making it a fun and bonding experience.
高雄｜至情谷 Lover’s Valley, Kaohsiung
Located in Wanshan Village, Maolin District, Kaohsiung, Lover’s Valley is a tributary of the Jhuoshuei River The route offers not only stunning valley views but also challenges like climbing, swimming, ascending, and rappelling down waterfalls. As a safety tip, if you have nearsightedness, it’s advisable to secure your glasses with a strap; if you wear contact lenses, consider using swim goggles to prevent them from falling out.
屏東｜七孔瀑布 Qikong Waterfalls, Pingtung
Want a peek into a hidden gem in Hengchun? The Qikong Waterfalls in Yongjing Village, Manzhou Township, Pingtung, consist of seven small cascading waterfalls. The approximately three-hour journey allows you to rappel down seven different small waterfalls. Remember, river tracing is a full-body workout, so it might be tiring if you’re not used to physical activity, but it’s incredibly rewarding!
台東｜桑樹溪 Sangshu River, Taitung
Sangshu River, originating from the Central Mountain Range and flowing into the lower reaches of the Dannan River, is pristine and untouched, making it ideal for ecological observation. In Sangshu Creek, seemingly calm waters hide many rapids, so it’s crucial to go with a group and under the guidance of a professional coach. Experience rituals like angled jumping, vertical climbing, waterfall photography, and human chain floating for a safe and convenient adventure.
This article is reproduced under the permission of ReadyGO. Original content can be found at the website of Ready Go.
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