Taiwan is a mountainous country
The Taroko National Park Administration held an inauguration ceremony for the Mountain School yesterday. Director YU Teng-liang said that the Mountain School is expected to take Taiwan’s mountain education a big step forward. Mountain enthusiasts will be able to acquire correct concepts and receive training in mountaineering skills, and he also hopes to create a more friendly environment and facilities in the mountainous areas.
YU Teng-liang pointed out that Taiwan has rugged terrain, with mountains covering two-thirds of the island. Seventy-six of Taiwan’s Hundred Mountains are also located within national park areas. The Mountain School will integrate government and private resources to guide the public in learning about outdoor activities in the mountains. It will also gather top-notch teaching staff and introduce foreign techniques and experience, aiming to serve as a training base for Taiwan’s participation in international mountaineering activities.
The Taroko National Park Mountain School will focus its teaching and practical activities around three main pillars: “Mountain Climbing,” “Exploration,” and “Trail Maintenance.” The “Mountain Climbing” component emphasizes activities such as mountaineering, rescue operations, snow training, guiding, and overseas expeditions, with the goal of enhancing mountaineering ethics education and technical skills.
The “Exploration” aspect includes training in activities such as stream tracing, rock climbing, adventure sports, tree climbing, and canoeing, focusing on inner exploration and unlocking potential. The “Trail Maintenance” component focuses on repairing trails and building partnerships, aiming to strengthen ecological conservation and the development of environmentally friendly facilities. Since its establishment, the Mountain School has planned twenty-four mountaineering and experiential training courses for different target groups this year. Members of the public interested in learning more can call (038) 621-100, extension 601 to 603, to inquire with the Taroko National Park Administration.