Shuishah Mountain Hiking Trail Introduction
⚠️ Temporarily closed due to wind damage, not open yet ⚠️ The Four Sisters of Sun Moon Lake refer to the four distinctive mid-level peaks surrounding Sun Moon Lake, namely Shuesha Mountain (2059 meters), Dajian Mountain (2017 meters), Maolan Mountain (approximately 1016 meters), and Houshan Mountain (1008 meters), affectionately known in the hiking community as the "Four Siblings of Sun Moon Lake." The Shuesha Mountain Trail is the hiking route to the area’s highest peak—Shuesha Mountain at an elevation of 2059 meters. The trail is approximately 5.6 kilometers long, making for a round trip of about 11 kilometers, with an elevation difference of over 1280 meters, classified as a moderate level challenge suitable for hikers with a certain level of fitness and experience. It typically takes about 6 to 8 hours to complete the trail, so an early start is recommended along with enough water and supplies. The trailhead is located next to the restaurant at the Sun Moon Lake Youth Activity Center, with the first 1.6 kilometers consisting of stone steps, followed by a transition to a primitive mountain path. The forest scenery along the way is diverse, transitioning from low-altitude broadleaf forests and Cinnamomum camphora forests to mid- to high-altitude Moso bamboo forests and rhododendron forests, ultimately entering the temperate Yushan Arrow Bamboo forest—making it an excellent route for observing mountain ecology. Along the way, several pavilions and viewpoints are available where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Sun Moon Lake, Lalu Island, and the majestic peaks of the Central Mountain Range, creating a stunning landscape that makes one forget the fatigue of hiking. The trail conditions are good, with clear paths, and some steep sections have rope assistance, but overall it is safe. Hikers will pass small peaks like Pujishan and see clear kilometer markers to help track progress. As there is no water source along the entire route, hikers must bring their own water, and due to the variable climate in the mountains, it is advisable to carry rain gear and warm clothing.
