The majesty of Taroko Gorge is impossible to capture in photographs. That doesn’t stop anyone from trying, of course. Its name by the indigenous tribe that lived in those mountains, the Truku people, means “magnificent and beautiful.” It truly is.
We went to get trail maps the first afternoon and were swamped by bus loads of Chinese tourists at Swallow Grotto. We decided that the best strategy was to start early in the morning before the buses arrived.
There are many interesting natural features and trails in the park. The suspension footbridge here leads to a trail that requires a backwoods permit. It’s a hike we’d love to do when we return to Taiwan.
When we started very early, we were able to take undisturbed pictures at the Baiyang water curtain. Originally part of a now defunct project to develop hydroelectric power, the tunnel has a water wall created by the spring that cracked the roof. We’re sure glad we had our dollar store raincoats with us.
One cannot help but feel awed and humble by the triple water falls descending from the sky, or by the Temple of the Eternal Spring built into the side of a cliff over flowing water.
this is so over the top cool. i cab only image how wonderful your trek is.
always the best
mike
Thanks Mike! The adventure so far has been awesome.
Great pics. Was there many moons ago. What camera did u use? Mark
Hi Mark, Thanks for the compliment. It means a lot coming from you because I know how good your landscape shots are!
To make a long story short, my old SLR finally died completely and we broke down and bought a new camera in Taiwan. One of the discount dealers gave us the same price as the New York City web stores.
After agonizing over what to buy, we finally settled on the consumer kit of the new Sony full-frame, mirrorless SLR – Alpha a7. Based on our new lifestyle, this turned out to be an optimal choice – 27oz total carry-weight with the lens. Given the weight, it’s an amazing camera.
Sometimes, I miss a telephoto, but when I think about how much more I’d have to carry to the airport or on our hiking, I just let those shots go.
Ivan