The Snow Leopard National Park Administration will implement its winter service period starting January 3 next year. In line with the Executive Yuan’s mountain opening policy, it will replace regulation with a spirit of “service and openness,” including opening applications for the Holy Ridge Line during the winter season, requiring hikers to self-assess their mountaineering qualifications for snow climbing, and designating specific cirque locations for snow climbing training teams to set up camps. The park administration urges hikers to prepare appropriate hiking plans and winter gear for the winter season.
In coordination with the mountain opening policy and to protect the alpine ecosystem within the park, the Snow Leopard National Park Administration will carry out its winter service from January 3 to March 31 next year. The park entry application rules are divided into “general applications” and “snow training applications.” To balance hiking safety and ecological protection, 12 key points of the entry regulations have been outlined for explanation.
The Snow Leopard National Park Administration noted that the Holy Ridge Line will be open for applications during the winter season, and hikers must submit a Mountain Safety Management Assessment Form for record. General applications are for groups of 1 to 6 people (including the team leader). For those applying to hike the Holy Ridge Line, it is recommended that the group consist of at least 3 people, and the team leader should self-assess their qualifications, such as experience in snow training and mountaineering guide certification. When snow accumulation in cirques reaches 30 centimeters or more, specific locations will be piloted for opening to allow snow training teams to set up camps, with full compliance required with the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Hiking teams should constantly monitor the mountain conditions released by the Snow Leopard National Park Administration, cooperate with necessary guidance from staff, and independently ensure the proper use of snow climbing equipment. Attention should also be paid to snow-covered and icy sections as well as challenging terrains in the mountains. The park administration stated that at the trailheads and mountain huts of popular hiking routes, winter guides will be stationed to assist hikers in using snow climbing equipment and provide consultation services related to winter hiking to ensure hiker safety.
The Snow Leopard National Park Administration urges hikers to carefully assess weather conditions and make adequate preparations before winter hiking. If lacking experience or proper equipment, do not attempt to cross snowy or icy sections. Hikers must take responsibility for their own actions and always “climb up the mountain to come down safely.”
(China Times)