It is one of the 'Hundred Peaks' of Taiwan, a list of 100 mountain peaks selected by mountaineers for their distinctiveness.
The peak is characterized by the presence of a triangular point marker, a standard feature for recognized peaks in the Taiwanese mountain system.
The trail leading to the peak is famous for the 'Crying Slope,' a steep section that often tests the physical endurance of climbers.
The mountain ecosystem transitions from temperate broadleaf forests at lower elevations to subalpine vegetation near the peak.
It is located on the boundary of Taichung City's Heping District, positioned within the high-altitude zone of the Xueshan mountain range.
Xueshan East Peak, rising to 3,201 meters, serves as a prominent mountain peak along the standard climbing route to Xueshan Main Peak in Taiwan's Shei-Pa National Park. The trail to the summit typically begins at the Dajishan Trailhead, covering approximately 5 kilometers of ascent. The terrain features a mix of alpine meadows and coniferous forests with steep gradients. Hikers encounter the Qika Cabin for accommodation early in the route. The summit offers a vantage point for viewing the Central Mountain Range and the Yushan range. Visitors must obtain a mountain entry permit from the National Police Agency and a park entry permit from Shei-Pa National Park Headquarters prior to arrival.
The summit cairn, which provides a 360-degree panoramic backdrop of the surrounding alpine ridges.
Check weather reports specifically for high-altitude zones, as conditions change rapidly regardless of the base station forecast.
Practice multi-day trekking to build stamina for the significant elevation gain required for this ascent.
Bring trekking poles to manage the steep, rocky inclines on both the ascent and descent.
Attempting to summit without proper high-altitude acclimatization or failing to secure the mandatory entry permits.
Access may be restricted during extreme weather events, such as typhoons or heavy snow, and requires advance permit approval.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles by carrying out all waste; stay on marked trails to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
