Jul 8, 2010

A New Experience for New Migrants – Jhuilu Historical Trail



With a passion to trace the footsteps of our forefathers, in light gear and 2400c.c. of water, Arthur and Theresa challenged the renowned Jhuilu Historical Trail with several hiking pals.



The only historic preservation area within the confines of Taroko National Park – Jhuilu Historic Trail, is a remnant of Hehuan-Nengao Mountain Cross-Ridge National Trail. 10km in length, 600m in height, the trail is virtually composed of marbles and is definitely the most spectacular and grandeur landscape of Taroko gorge.

During Japanese colonization, Jhuilu was a section of Hehuan-Nengao Mountain Cross-Ridge National Trail, transecting the grand Jhuilu Cliff, stretching above Cimu Bridge, through Jiuqudong Tunnel and end at Tunnel of Nine Turns. 10.3km in total, the cliff section lies in-between 750m and 780m above sea level, with its vertical distance with 500m above Liwu River Valley. The narrowest part of the trail is only 60 – 70cm wide. The view you witness overlooking the entire Taroko Gorge from the trail is breathtaking.

Since this trail is a remarkably well preserved in comparison to other sections, along its path are tribal ruins and monuments, rich in historical values, hence it has been declared as a historical preservation area. The ecology along the trail is also abundant and primitive; especially the lithophytes on the cliff are rich in species that descended from mountainous regions due to alterations in topography and climate, and amongst them are rare and precious species.

Jhuilu is narrow in width, the cliff section is extraordinary steep, it is definitely not a trail suitable to all ages, but a challenging experience with higher difficulty. Climbers must assess their own physical conditions before applying. Arthur and Theresa departed 9:30 that day from Cimu Bridge, and by the time they returned to swallow’s Grotto, it was 16:30. Additionally, there is no source of water in the mountains, and under the scorching sun, 2400c.c. of water is far from enough. We were practically dehydrated by the time we completed the entire trail, therefore one must consider carefully before attempting the trail.



Overlooking Cimu Bridge



Cimu Bridge begins at 10k

 

Outside the narrow path is grandeur scenery



Outside the narrow path is grandeur scenery - 2



Outside the narrow path is grandeur scenery - 3



Historical sites along Jhuilu



Overlooking Jhuilu Historical Trail


Finally completed half of the trip, but only 1/3 of water left…





The pathway is only half a meter wide, and below our feet is a cliff.



A senior photographer who only more vigorous with age, chan shui huo



Outside the narrow path is grandeur scenery.



A trail of the sky, “Jhuilu Historic Trail”, was built on the cliff by the men of Taroko tribe. Very challenging. You are welcome to give it a try!

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