Shuishe Mountain is the highest peak around Sun Moon Lake, with its triangulation point standing at 2,059 meters; the trail follows the ridgeline to a summit with sweeping views over the lake. Selected as one of Taiwan's Xiao Baiyue ('Little Hundred Peaks') in 2003, it was later delisted in 2006 because the upper trail section proved too demanding — it remains one of the more challenging day hikes in Nantou County, suited to experienced hikers.
Shuishe Mountain's triangulation point stands at 2,059 meters (precisely 2,058.947m). It was selected as one of Taiwan's Xiao Baiyue ('Little Hundred Peaks') by the Executive Yuan's Sports Affairs Council in 2003, then delisted in 2006 because the upper trail section was judged too difficult. Together with Dajian Mountain (2,017m), Maolan Mountain (1,020m), and Houjian Mountain (1,008m), it forms the so-called 'Four Siblings of Sun Moon Lake,' of which it is the tallest.
Highlights of Shuishe Mountain
What makes Shuishe Mountain distinctive is its geographical relationship with Sun Moon Lake: from the lakeshore you look up to see the mountain rising as a backdrop, and from the summit you look down to see the lake as a panoramic stage. On a clear day, the lake surface, Lalu Island and Guanghua Island, and the Ita Thao community on the opposite shore are all clearly visible, while the Central Mountain Range extends from south to north; in exceptional visibility, the outlines of more distant peaks become discernible.
The trail starts near Shuishe Dam. The first section is steep, passing through secondary forest before gradually entering old-growth broadleaf forest; the ridgeline section opens up progressively. The trail is rich in vegetation along the way and has high bird diversity, making it a multi-purpose route combining summit views with nature observation. The summit and the entire ridgeline are unshaded; summer afternoons bring thunderstorms, so heed the weather and start early.
Making the most of your visit
Practical information
Getting there and time needed
- The trailhead is near Sun Moon Lake's Shuishe Dam. Drive to the Shuishe car park and walk to the trailhead. Sun Moon Lake parking is tight on holidays — weekday visits are recommended.
- The full round trip requires 6 to 8 hours and a solid hiking fitness level. Trail conditions vary by season; fallen trees and rockfalls are possible after typhoons — check trail status before setting out.
Nearby connections
- Shuishe Mountain and Sun Moon Lake are neighbors; after descending, a boat tour or an easy lakeside trail walk makes a good recovery activity.
- Sun Moon Lake Black Tea Story House in Yuchi Township is about 15 to 20 minutes by car from the Shuishe area — a good cultural visit to schedule the day before the hike.
Source: compiled from context data; some information supplemented from public sources. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shuishe Mountain still a Xiao Baiyue peak?
No — it was selected in 2003 but delisted in 2006 because the upper trail proved too difficult.
How high is Shuishe Mountain?
Its triangulation point is 2,059 meters, making it the highest peak around Sun Moon Lake.
How difficult is the Shuishe Mountain hike?
It's a moderately demanding day hike taking 6 to 8 hours round trip, suited to hikers with prior experience.
Sources
- 水社大山 — 維基百科，三角點標高與小百岳除名年份
- 【水社大山】日月潭最高峰｜硬到被小百岳除名 — 健行筆記，步道難度與小百岳除名經過