Sky Ladder is a red U-shaped tempered-glass skywalk in Zhongliao Township, Nantou County, that once spanned the area above Longfeng Waterfall in Longyan Forest. Built by the Zhongliao Township Office at a cost of nearly NT$30 million, it opened in July 2015, measuring about 30 meters long with a 13-meter cantilever extending from the cliff face roughly 40 to 50 meters above the ground. It has been closed since October 2019 due to low visitor numbers, though Longfeng Waterfall itself remains open to the public for free.
The Sky Ladder was a red U-shaped tempered-glass skywalk (not a cable suspension bridge) about 30 meters long, cantilevered 13 meters from the cliff face, roughly 40 to 50 meters above the ground. Built by the Zhongliao Township Office at a cost of nearly NT$30 million, it opened in July 2015 and closed permanently in October 2019 due to underwhelming visitor numbers relative to its ticket price; only Longfeng Waterfall itself remains open to the public for free.
Highlights of Sky Ladder Suspension Bridge (Longfeng Waterfall)
The Sky Ladder suspension bridge is hung by steel cables across the deep valley; the swaying of the bridge deck is noticeable, and walking across it you feel the visual impact of the height difference. The valley below is densely vegetated. Longfeng Waterfall is within reach via the trail — the waterfall is not particularly tall but has a steady flow and the valley ecology is intact. Jiujiu Peak Nature Reserve is famous for its unusual mountain formations (erosion has created dozens of aligned pointed peaks), a rare geological feature in Taiwan. It can be viewed from nearby viewpoints but entry into the reserve itself is restricted.
Zhongliao Township is a quiet, remote area with relatively low levels of tourist development and a more rustic atmosphere. The Sky Ladder trail is well-organized, with interpretive signage explaining the local ecology and the 921 reconstruction process. Longan (longyan) is an important agricultural product of Zhongliao Township; during the longan harvest season from August to September, longan-related farm produce is available for purchase in the township. The overall trail difficulty is low, with moderate gradients suited to visitors of average fitness. There is basic parking at the trailhead; driving is the most convenient way to get there.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time Required
- Zhongliao Township is a remote location with very inconvenient public transportation — driving is strongly recommended. About 20 to 30 minutes from Nantou City; some sections of the road are narrow, so drive carefully.
- The Sky Ladder and Longfeng Waterfall trail combined takes about 1.5 to 2 hours; adding the Jiujiu Peak viewpoints, allow a half-day.
Nearby Connections
- Heading northeast leads to Nantou City and Caotun; heading south leads down to Jiji Township. Zhongliao can be added as an ecotourism stop in a mid-Nantou itinerary.
- The management regulations for the Jiujiu Peak Nature Reserve area need to be confirmed before visiting — check the current access status before departure.
Sources: Zhongliao Township Office ecotourism materials, Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency Jiujiu Peak Nature Reserve related announcements. Photos pending replacement with Dio's original shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can visitors still see the Sky Ladder skywalk?
The skywalk itself closed permanently in October 2019, and only Longfeng Waterfall remains open to the public, free of charge.
How long was the Sky Ladder skywalk?
The U-shaped tempered-glass skywalk was about 30 meters long, cantilevered 13 meters from the cliff face, roughly 40 to 50 meters above the ground.
Why did the Sky Ladder skywalk close?
The Zhongliao Township Office built it at a cost of nearly NT$30 million, but low visitor turnout relative to the entry fee led to its closure in October 2019.
Sources
- 門票貴未帶動觀光 龍鳳瀑布天空步道停業 — 停業原因與時間
- 中寮龍鳳瀑布步道 - 健行筆記 — 步道長度與規格