Taroko Gorge

Well last weekend was the four day vacation for Dragon Boat Festival. This provided time for me to go out to visit Hua Lien, which is located in eastern Taiwan. I went road tripping with Kevin, Heidi, Boni, Emilie, and Ray. The drive ended up being close to 8 hours including stops for gas, lunch, and stretching.

It was a tiring trip, but very worthwhile. One of the highlights of the trip was the chance to visit Taroko Gorge. This majestic mountain areas is one of the most famous national parks here in Taiwan. We drove a school van, so we were able to move freely through the mountains and explore the beauty of God's creation. As we drove on the windy roads, we stopped occassionally to take picture or to hike on trails.



One of the hightlights was the Bia Yang trial. It was not an intense hike, but was close to 4 km long. The trail went through the mountains, caves, and included a suspension bridge. Two parts I especially enjoyed include a very dark cave and the "water curtain."

At one point in the trail we went through a large cave that had no lighting. There was a hand rail to guide us along the road, but at several points the room was pitch black. It is a really strange feeling, being unsure exactly of what is in front of you. I did have the handrail to help guide, and before long I could see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The trail also include a water fall inside the cave, which was labeled as the "water curtain." Outside of the cave, everyone removed their shoes and put on a rain pancho, which were provided for free. This was really neat, as I took of my shoes and walked through the cold water into the dark cave. As I approached the middle water began to fall from the ceiling, and it eventually became a steady stream. It was not overly powerful, but really cool and refreshing on the hot day.

Sorry, I could not take any picture, for fear of ruining my camera.

Another highlight of the Hua Lien trip was the opportunity to visit Pastor Lio and his wife Sarah. He served as pastor of Salvation Lutheran church my first two years in Taiwan, but then left to go to a mountain congregation in Rei Schway (about an hour south of Hua Lien).

We were able to see there new church and look at the beautiful landscape. It is set in the mountains, and fresh mountain water flows in streams alongside the church. The entire area is free of much of the smog and pollution that is found along the industrialized westernside of Taiwan. We were able to meet some of the children that attend the church's Sunday school, and were also able to relax in a natural hot spring.



It was such a joy to meet up with old friends, if even for a little bit. And the four day weekend was a great get-a-way to set up the final three weeks of the semester.