Mt. Guan (關山), sometimes referred to as Guanshan, is the highest peak in Southern Taiwan and is located on the South First Section (南一段) of the Central Mountain Range.
The route this peak is on can be done north to south, or vice versa, but either way, Guanshan is located towards the northern end of the ridgeline, and has a series of steep cliffs on its north flank that require ropes to assist in climbing.
The South First Section, while being one of the shorter sections of the Central Mountain Range, is considered to be one of the harder sections, as it’s outside the national park system and is overgrown and less maintained than other sections. It’s also logistically difficult to get to.
On the other hand, the northern terminus of this route lands on the South Cross Highway (Highway 20) which is the southernmost highway in Taiwan that connects Taiwan’s East and West coasts. If hikers are lucky, they will have the opportunity to drive in or out of this hike along this highway, which is considered possibly the most beautiful mountain road in Taiwan.
It’s also worth noting that the South Cross 3 Stars (南橫三星) are located along this highway and can be added on to this route.
For more information about the South Cross 3 Stars Route (南橫三星), please click here.
For more information about the South First Section Route (南一段), please click here.
Resources for hiking Mt. Guan (關山):
- Check out the South Cross 3 Stars Route (南橫三星), please click here. (Coming Soon)
- Check out the South First Section Route (南一段), please click here. (Coming Soon)
