Originally Posted by uanj

Most roads are now open but crossing the island from Taichung takes a long, long time. Speeds are reduced and there can be road closures for hours at a time, or even all night. Some sections are one way only, alternating traffic direction with long gaps in between. Lots of road and slope maintenance so really for local traffic only. I heard the visitor center on the Hualian side is open but no trails. The park has consistently said they intend to get some trails reopened before the end of the year so that should happen. How many trails and when, we haven't heard yet.

The Silks Taroko is located in the gorge and re-opening October 1, from their website: "The hotel will begin operations in stages starting on October 1st. Currently, the road from the Taroko Archway to the hotel is subject to time-restricted access during five specific periods: 07:00-08:00, 10:00, 12:00-13:00, 15:00, and 17:00-17:30. If you are planning a holiday and driving yourself, please be mindful of the road control schedule. Alternatively, we recommend opting for sustainable travel by booking the hotel’s scheduled shuttle service to ensure smooth transportation." Silks Taroko Website



With 15 days in Taiwan, most people would tour the perimeter of the island. The East Coast is uniquely beautiful and unlike most of what you will see on the West Coast. Understand you do not want to be packing and unpacking, but if you like nature and mountain scenery you could consider the East Coast. Any reason to rule it out? It will not be urban like the cities on the West Coast, so if you like cities you can skip it. But if you like interesting train rides and while there are tourists, it is nothing like SML and Kenting.

You mention visiting islands, will you be able to rent a scooter to get around?