This week, the Green Trails trek sponsored by the Taiwan Forestry Bureau made its way through central Taiwan. The trek, which aims to cover a course liking 18 historical trails across the length of Taiwan, is currently in its 34th day, having recently descended from its highest point, the summit of Yushan.
The core group has remained unaffected by the long period of exertion. Though they started out strangers, the eight trekkers aiming to complete the full 50 day trek have now developed an easy camaraderie that has made the days of rain and weary walking much more endurable, and during the course of the trek, there have been a number of changes in members only joining for limited periods.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUN RIVER CULTURE
Early last week, the trek moved through some of the least frequented areas of Taiwan, following the Meilan Trail and the Nan River Trail, with many sightings of spore from large mammals, and even the occasional sighting of Formosan Sambar deer.
On Father's Day (Aug. 8), the trekkers visited Alishan where they had a day of rest in the comfort of the Alishan Lodge. What followed was a period in the high mountains favored by Taiwan trekkers, and the ascent of Taiwan's most famous peak, Yushan. After days of rain, the weather for the Yushan climb was perfect and the climb was truly the high point of the trip.
The trek has another 17 days to run before it emerges in Wulai in Taipei County.
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