The snow season restrictions at Shei-Pa National Park are set to end, with general park entry applications resuming in April. However, some sections still have snow and ice, and the Shei-Pa Management Office today urged hikers to carry sufficient snow-climbing gear depending on their chosen route.
The Shei-Pa National Park Management Office implemented snow season restrictions from January 20 to March 31 this year to ensure hiker safety. These restrictions required a certain level of snow-climbing experience and equipment for park entry and mountain climbing. The measures will end on April 1, when general entry applications will reopen.
The Management Office noted that due to unstable mountain weather and large day-night temperature variations, some hiking trails still have lingering snow and ice. Additionally, with the arrival of a strong cold front, the section from Snow Mountain Main Peak to the Cirque as well as the Holy Ridge Line continue to experience snowfall and snow cover. Certain areas require snow-climbing equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and helmets to pass safely.
The Management Office stated that there is still snowfall in the high mountains recently, making trails prone to icing and slipperiness. Hikers must plan their trips carefully and conduct risk assessments beforehand, carrying adequate snow-climbing gear based on their intended routes.
In addition, considering the higher difficulty and danger of climbing the Holy Ridge Line, which involves traversing one to two cliffs, groups of three or more are required to apply for entry. They must also follow the graded entry application regulations based on the hiking route and carry auxiliary ropes and safety helmets to proceed.
The Management Office reminded that when it comes to mountain climbing, choosing a mountain “within your own ability range” is far more important than picking the one “you want to go to.” The right attitude in respecting the mountains is not about conquering them, but reaching the summit. 1050323
(CNA)