Aowanda National Forest

Deep in the heart of Nantou County, Aowanda National Forest is a serene mountain retreat famous for its epic suspension bridge, primeval forests, and the year-round song of birds. This former logging area has been reborn as a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering a genuine escape into Taiwan's wild interior. The air smells of cedar and damp earth, and the views from the Aowanda Suspension Bridge—stretching 180 metres across a deep gorge—are nothing short of breathtaking.

Highlights & What to See

• Aowanda Suspension Bridge: Walk this vertiginous bridge for panoramic views of the canyon and the distant mountains; it's particularly magical in the early morning mist.
• Forest Recreation Area: Explore well-marked trails that wind through towering cypress, hemlock, and maple trees; autumn colours are spectacular from November to January.
• Birdwatching: The reserve is a birding hotspot—look for the endemic Taiwan blue magpie, Mikado pheasant, and white-eared sibia along the Songlong Trail.
• Songlong Waterfall: A short hike leads to this multi-tiered cascade, perfect for a cooling break on a humid day.
• Visitor Centre & History Trail: Learn about the area's logging past and indigenous Bunun culture through exhibits and a short interpretive walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a full day is ideal to experience the highlights: arrive early to walk the suspension bridge before the crowds, spend the morning on the Songlong Trail (about 2–3 hours), and enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfall. If you're a keen birder or want to tackle longer trails like the 5-km Songlongshan Trail, plan for an overnight stay—the forest lodge offers basic but comfortable accommodation and the chance to hear the forest come alive at dawn.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sun Moon Lake: Taiwan's largest lake, about an hour's drive west, with cycling paths, boat rides, and temple visits.
• Xitou Nature Education Area: Famous for its giant bamboo groves and the Xitou Monster, a quirky local legend—perfect for a half-day detour.
• Yuchi Township: The gateway to Sun Moon Lake, known for its tea plantations and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
• Shuili River Valley: A scenic drive along the Shuili River offers hot springs, fruit farms, and the charming Shuili Snake Kiln pottery studio.
• Puli Township: A historic market town with the Puli Brewery (famous for Shaoxing wine) and the Paper Dome, an architectural curiosity built from paper tubes.

Please check official sources for current details.