【Der Süden. Ailiao North River】Von Richard Chien

【The South. Ailiao North River】

Looking up, the majestic Central Mountain Range looms above. The main ridge dips after Mount Peinan, only to surge back to a height of 3,000 meters upon reaching the Dawu Mountains. These high peaks and deep valleys feed the Ailiao North River, a primary upstream tributary of the mighty Gaoping River in the south. The mystical legends of the Clouded Leopard and the Hundred-Pace Viper flow through these mountains like the river itself—eternal and restless.

Today, the riverbed is carpeted with overwintering Crow Butterflies. Deep within the canyon, two eagles spiral upward, catching the valley winds. Along the water's edge, a flurry of tracks from birds and beasts tells of hidden lives, while I and my bicycle are the day's only intruders. Shenshan, Wutai, Majia, Taiwu, Maolin, Dona; The mountains of the south—so close, yet so far... so close, yet so far.

By Richard chien

🏔️ Mystical Realm of the South: Ailiao North River Cycling Guide

While Northern Taiwan is shrouded in relentless winter rain before the Lunar New Year, the Ailiao North River in the south enters its prime season for cycling exploration. This region offers not only breathtaking canyon landscapes but also carries the ancient souls of the Rukai and Paiwan peoples.

📍 Route Overview & Features Originating from the Dawu Mountains of the Central Mountain Range, the Ailiao North River is a primary upstream tributary of the mighty Gaoping River. During the winter dry season, the vast riverbed transforms into a natural cycling track.

• Terrain: The riverbed is a mosaic of gravel and sand. The main ridge of the Central Range dips after Mount Peinan, only to surge back to 3,000 meters in the Dawu area, creating dramatic elevation drops and profound canyons.

• Cultural Heritage: Surrounded by indigenous villages like Shenshan, Wutai, Majia, Taiwu, Maolin, and Dona, the mountains echo with legends of the Clouded Leopard and the Hundred-Pace Viper.

• Ecological Beauty: Winter is the season for Crow Butterflies to overwinter; clouds of butterflies dance across the riverbed while eagles soar above the deep canyons.

🚵♂️ Recommended Riding Route This is a dynamic off-road route. Experience with Gravel Bikes or MTBs is highly recommended.

1. Start: Sandimen / Ailiao Riverbank – Enter the riverbed near the Sandimen Bridge to experience the vast, open horizon.

2. Mid-section: Valley Winds & Canyons – As elevation rises, the valley narrows into deep canyons. Expect frequent river crossings (usually ankle-deep); amphibious shoes are recommended.

3. Finish: Shenshan Lower Basin / Hayu River Entrance – Look up at the towering Wutai Guchuan Bridge to witness the stunning contrast between human engineering and the raw power of nature.

🎒 Gear Recommendation: The Iron Grey Wilderness Aesthetic In a landscape of greyish-white gravel and dark rock walls, your gear’s color defines your visual identity.

• The Choice: Featured in the photos is the WOHO XTouring Series in HoneyComb Iron Grey. This color palette blends seamlessly with the rocks of the Ailiao River, offering a low-profile yet professional look.

• Waterproof Performance: Riverbed riding involves splashes and bike-pushing through water. The high-strength, anti-fouling HoneyComb textured fabric provides ultimate protection for your gear.

• Essentials: The southern sun is intense with little shade. Carry ample water and high-energy snacks.

XTOURING Saddle Bag Dry M  HoneyComb Iron Grey 

XTOURING Top Tube Bag Dry HoneyComb Iron Grey 

XTOURING Frame Bag DRY S Honeycomb Iron Grey

⚠️ Pro-Tips Before You Go

• Dry Season Only: This route is strictly for the dry season (Nov to March). Entering during the rainy season is extremely dangerous.

• Leave No Trace (LNT): Respect the sacred indigenous hunting grounds. Keep noise to a minimum and take all trash with you.

• Communication: Signals are unstable deep in the canyon. Download offline maps and travel in groups.