Learn to scale cliffs "Spider-Man style" on a 90-degree rock wall hike — Discover New Taipei’s top 4 most thrilling climbing spots

▲ Wuliaojian presents a true test of "rock climbing," and though tough, it attracts many brave young souls ready to take on the challenge (Photo/Netizen1023.he_shenProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Travel Center / Compiled Report

Taiwan is 70% mountainous. Aside from hiking its famous peaks, northern Taiwan offers several low-altitude spots where you’ll need ropes to scale nearly 90-degree cliffs, then walk along mountain ridges at the summit — an intense adventure requiring hands and feet, climbing up and down. At the top, a 360-degree view awaits. ETNEWS has handpicked 4 natural rock climbing spots in New Taipei City. Brave souls with good endurance, gear up for some real "cliff scaling" action!

▲ The highlight of Wuliaojian is its "sheer cliff giant wall," a towering 30-meter near-vertical rock face that requires serious climbing skills (Photo/NetizenuniswoooProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

1. Wuliaojian
Wuliaojian in New Taipei’s Sanxia District is famed for its "sheer cliff giant wall" — a dramatic 30-meter-high, nearly 90-degree rock face that calls for hands-and-feet climbing and rappelling, making it intensely thrilling. Even though it takes 2–4 grueling hours of going up and down, reaching the 639-meter base point is worth it. At the summit, you can walk along the ridge with unobstructed views, surrounded by peaks — a view so spectacular it belongs on every extreme adventurer’s must-do list.

▲ After conquering "Emperor’s Terrace," you can stroll along the summit ridgeline, taking in surrounding peaks. (Photo/NetizenuniswoooProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

2. Emperor’s Terrace
Located in Shiding District, New Taipei City, Emperor’s Terrace reaches just 593 meters in elevation, but its steep terrain features numerous 90-degree cliffs. Hands-and-feet climbing and rope-assisted scrambling are required. Though similar in difficulty to Wuliaojian, it’s a bit more beginner-friendly, plus its convenient access draws many visitors. Most hikers take an O-shaped route. With added chains, ropes, and granite steps, it’s somewhat safer now, but still a heart-pounding climb.

▲ The rolling hills of "Bijiashan" feel like a high-altitude mountain range. (Photo/Netizen1023.he_shenProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

3. Bijiashan (Penholder Mountain)
Situated at the border of Shenkeng and Shiding in New Taipei City, Bijiashan stands 585 meters tall and features near-vertical cliffs that resemble a natural rock climbing gym. With significant elevation changes, the climb requires ropes to navigate steep ridges and cliffs, testing both stamina and strength. At the summit, enjoy a 360-degree view of landmarks like Taipei 101, Shiding, and Shenkeng’s undulating mountain scenery — as if you’re on a high-altitude alpine peak.

▲ The most thrilling parts of Xiaozishan are the nearly "90-degree vertical stone steps" and the final "hanging iron ladder." (Photo/NetizenedisonboyyyProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

4. Xiaozishan (Filial Son Mountain)
Out of the four mountains, Xiaozishan in Pingxi District offers the best value (CP value). It only takes about 20 minutes to reach the summit, but the most intense parts are the near-vertical "90-degree stone stairs" and the final "hanging iron ladder." The stairs are carved directly into the mountain ridge, almost perfectly upright, and could easily be called a "stairway to heaven." From the top, you’ll see rolling mountain ranges and the distant beauty of Shidi Village. The climb not only tests your fear of heights, but also challenges your balance and mental resilience with its twisted, irregular path.

Friendly Reminder:
1. These four northern Taiwan rock climbing spots are mid-to-high difficulty hiking trails. Please assess your physical condition, strength, endurance, and courage before attempting.
2. Remember to take all your trash with you to help preserve nature’s beauty.
3. To protect your hands, it’s recommended to wear white canvas gloves while climbing.