The Baiyang Waterfall Trail in Taroko Gorge is a beautiful and gentle walk that can be done by almost anyone. The hike begins just a bit north of Tianxiang with an eerie walk through an unlit 100m tunnel.
Last time I was here the first tunnel was shut because of an enormous landslide, and we had to take the tougher route over the mountains from Tianxiang to get to the other side of the tunnel. We walked the rest of the trail only to find the final bridge had been washed away and we couldn’t get over to see the waterfall in full. But, now the tunnel’s been reopened and the final concrete bridge that takes you over to waterfall viewing platform has been rebuilt.
The trail was originally built by the Taipower company. Back in the 70s and 80s, there was an idea that Taroko Gorge could be dammed for hyroelecttric power and this road was built as part of that project. Luckily the plan never came came to fruition and the national park was left with a great trail.
The walk follows the old road, passing by a number of tunnels. It’s only about 2 km long, but a very pleasant walk.
Once you reach the concrete bridge, you can go left to see the waterfall or right to get to the Water Curtain Tunnel. When this tunnel was built, water began to cascade into it. It’s a spectacular sight, but rain gear or an umbrella is a must otherwise you’ll end up soaked.
The trail stops at the other end of the tunnel. I had a quick look and it seems like the road has collapsed in a number of places so that’s as far as you can go.
Some more photos here
The trail starts here 24.185122,121.489939
If you’re interested in hiking in Taroko Gorge, contact us at Taiwan Adventures