Post Date：2025-03-26 ~2025-04-15 Released by：Shei-pa National Park Headquarters

According to the latest forecast from the Central Weather Administration, a frontal system and cold air mass will move in starting Friday, March 28, bringing increased moisture and chilly, damp conditions throughout Taiwan. Some trails in Shei-Pa National Park remain covered in snow and ice. In response, the Shei-Pa National Park Headquarters of the National Park Service, Ministry of the Interior (hereafter referred to as the Park HQ), is extending its snow season management and related services until April 15. The Park HQ reminds visitors that temperatures can vary drastically between day and night, and some trails are still icy or snow-covered. All hikers are urged to stay informed about weather conditions and come prepared to ensure safety in the mountains.

Extended Snow Season Measures — Bring Proper Snow Gear and Prioritize Safety

Originally, the 2025 snow season management period was scheduled from January 2 to March 31. However, a mid-March cold front brought rare late-season snowfall to the mountains, and field reports show that trails above the Xue Mountain Glacial Cirques still have 10–20 cm of snow. With another cold front expected this weekend, the Park HQ will extend the snow season management until April 15.

Visitors with park entry permits for the period from April 1 to 15 are not affected. The Park HQ will send out a checklist for self-inspection of snow gear and mountaineering skills to these visitors. All hikers are reminded to carry appropriate snow equipment, including helmets, crampons, and ice axes, and to expect gear checks at Xue Mountain Trailhead and Dabajian Mountain Trailhead.

Recent Mountain Accidents Highlight the Dangers — Don't Be Fooled by Sunny Weather in the Lowlands

Due to recent snowfall and freezing conditions in mid-March, several serious mountain accidents have occurred in high-altitude areas, requiring multiple rescue operations. Despite warmer weather in the lowlands, recent photos sent by park volunteers show that areas over 3,000 meters — such as Xue Mountain Cirques, the main peak of Xue Mountain, the Holy Ridge, and Dabajian Mountain — still have significant snow and ice accumulation that is not expected to melt soon. With another cold front approaching this weekend, trails will become extremely slippery. Hikers are urged to reconsider their plans or delay their trips. If heading into the mountains is unavoidable, please be thoroughly prepared: research the mountain weather, carry essential snow-climbing gear, and learn how to use it properly. Don’t let a few warm days mislead you — mountain conditions remain hazardous.

Unprepared Hikers Who Trigger Rescues May Be Banned from the Park for 3 Years

The Park HQ also emphasizes that if hikers fail to carry proper snow equipment and are involved in accidents due to insufficient planning or gear — resulting in the need for rescue — they may be banned from entering the park for three years under National Park regulations. Violations such as unauthorized entry, deviating from approved routes, or illegal camping may also incur fines of up to NT$3,000 and be referred to local governments for further penalties under mountaineering activity regulations.

All hikers are urged to prepare thoroughly, bring all necessary snow equipment, and assess their own and their team’s capabilities. Ensuring a safe return for the entire group should be the top priority as we work together to prevent further tragedies.