Walami Trail
A jungle trail into the eastern side of Yushan National Park in Hualien, crossing gorges on suspension bridges.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Walami trail is the eastern end of the Batongguan historic route, a graded path cut in the Japanese period that contours into the Lakulaku river gorge through subtropical forest, crossing side valleys on suspension bridges. Most walkers go as far as Jiaxin, about four kilometres in, as a day walk; the full fourteen kilometres to Walami cabin is done overnight. Formosan macaques and muntjac are common and the forest is thick and loud with insects.
What you'll find
- The suspension bridges - crossings over side gorges along the contour route.
- The gorge - the Lakulaku valley falling away below the path.
- The subtropical forest - dense canopy with macaques and muntjac.
- The Nanan waterfall - a fall near the trailhead on the road in.
When to go
October to April is the driest and coolest. Summer typhoons close the trail regularly and it can stay shut for months. Permits must be applied for in advance, even for the day section.
What to expect
A permit is required for any distance, including the short day walk, and must be applied for online in advance. Landslides and typhoon damage close the trail often; checking status before travelling is essential. Leeches and biting insects are heavy in the wet season.
Nearby
Yuli is east, and Antong hot springs are nearby.
What to pack for Walami Trail
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Shelter suited to the place - Tent, tarp or hut booking - match it to the terrain and rules. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.