Yushan National Park features several popular hiking routes. With the arrival of the high-altitude winter snow season, hikers are reminded to have sufficient winter climbing experience and equipment, exercise heightened safety awareness, and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Yushan National Park is home to renowned long-distance hiking trails such as Yushan Main Peak, the Yushan Main Peak Range Route, the Mabolasih Traverse, the Batongguan Historic Trail (Japanese Era), and the Southern Section Two. As the high-altitude snow season begins, areas above 3,000 meters face a high likelihood of snowfall or icy trails when moisture is present. The Yushan National Park Headquarters today urged the public to pay close attention to winter alpine hiking safety.

The park authority stated that even outside of the snow season, hikers traversing steep mountain slopes, bare rock, landslide zones, and cliffs already face a certain risk of accidents. When snowfall or icy trails occur, the danger level increases significantly. Hikers must not only overcome challenging terrain but also contend with low temperatures, strong winds, dense fog, and even blizzards. Without adequate experience in handling such conditions, the risk of accidents is considerably higher.

The park authority pointed out that winter ascents require coping with harsh, frigid conditions. In addition to monitoring one’s physical condition and ensuring proper insulation, having adequate gear, snow experience, and pre-trip training is even more critical. Hiking teams should also choose leaders or guides with extensive snow hiking experience. If any team member shows signs of discomfort, immediate action must be taken—delays can lead to irreversible consequences.

The park authority also noted that the Yushan Main Peak Range Route has been under a “mountain closure” management policy since February 2017 (Year 106 in Taiwan’s calendar), prohibiting entry. Other hiking routes will implement winter snow season management measures if snow occurs. Whether in terms of physical stamina, technical skills, or equipment, hikers must exercise extra caution, with safety as the top priority. 1051226

(CNA)