Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) Trail
燕子口步道
One of the narrowest stretches of Taroko Gorge, where a trail runs along marble cliffs pocked with swallow-nesting potholes and the Liwu River rushes below.
Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) lies on the Taroko section of the Central Cross-Island Highway, where the Liwu River has cut a deep, narrow gorge. The marble cliffs across the water are covered in potholes eroded by the river. Swallows once nested here, which gave the place its name. You can also spot a rock formation resembling a human face, known as Indian Chief Rock.
The trail runs about 500 metres along a tunnel beside the highway. A helmet is required and can be borrowed at the management station.
After the April 2024 Hualien earthquake, many trails and road sections in Taroko Gorge were closed or open only at set times. Check the latest notices from the Taroko National Park Administration before you go.
Opening hours
Open daytime (per announcements)
Nearby sights
- Zhuilu Old Road
- Buluowan Recreation Area
- Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail
- Eternal Spring Shrine
- Shakadang Trail
- Taroko Gorge
- Lushui–Heliu Trail
- Tianxiang & Xiangde Temple