North Dawu Mountain, Mountain summit in Pingtung County, Taiwan.
North Dawu Mountain is a 3,092-meter (10,144-foot) peak and the highest summit in southern Taiwan. The mountain sits within a nature reserve that displays five distinct vegetation zones, ranging from tropical monsoon forests to cool temperate forests.
The Dawu Mountain Nature Reserve was established in 1988 to protect endangered species including the Formosan clouded leopard. This designation marked a turning point for conservation efforts in southern Taiwan's ecosystems.
This peak holds deep meaning for the Rukai and Paiwan indigenous peoples, who have lived in these lands for generations and maintain spiritual ties to the mountain. Their presence and traditions shape how visitors experience this landscape today.
Access to the hiking route starts from a trailhead near Taiwu Primary School, with the best conditions from April through November. Visitors should prepare for steep sections and wear appropriate footwear, especially during wetter months.
This peak encompasses multiple ecosystems across its slopes, creating a biodiversity hotspot rarely seen in such a compact area. This variety allows hikers to experience several forest types during a single climb.
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