Taroko Gorge
 

My DH and son are going to Taipei at the end of May. This will be my DH's 4th trip to Taipei as he teaches a business class in English for a few weeks every couple of years at the University. As of yet he has never seen the gorge and they would like to take a trip to there. Can this be done on the high speed train as a day trip or should they plan to spend one night there? Thank you

ttt

It will be a long day. There is no high-speed train to Hualien. The regular express train takes about 2.5-3 hours each way to Hualien or Sincheng, and then you still have to transfer to the bus get INTO Taroko Gorge.

I think you need to at least spend one night in Hualien to get any reasonable time in the park.

More info at:
www.taroko.gov.tw

You might try contacting the Formosa Regent hotel in the Park. I just spoke with a friend who arranged a day trip through them. They hired a guide for her who picked them up at the train station (rkkwan is right -- no high speed rail, but it isn't too far to Hualien) and took them through the gorge. I think they had lunch at the Leader Hotel, and dinner at the Formosa Regent before returning home.

One night is easier - if you're staying at the Formosa they will pick you up in Hualien (no tour booking required). The Formosa has maps of various hiking/walking trails and buses that take you to the various departure spots.

I suspect tour companies such as Edison Tours may offer day trips to the Gorge - another option.

It is a beautiful place and well worth the trip.

Thank you for your help. I spoke with my DH and he said that some of the people at the university there have already set up a tour for them! I hope they have a great time. Thanks again.

My DH and son were at the gorge this weekend. They said it is like a paradise on earth around there. I only wish I was with them.