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Maolin National Scenic Area

4.4
·931 reviews·, Taiwan

Discover breathtaking mountain vistas, lush forests, and vibrant butterfly migrations in Maolin National Scenic Area.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October - March

Peak butterfly season

CrowdMedium
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Maolin National Scenic Area - Image 1

Maolin National Scenic Area

Best Time

October - March

Peak butterfly season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover breathtaking mountain vistas, lush forests, and vibrant butterfly migrations in Maolin National Scenic Area.

4.4
(931 reviews)

"A must-visit place with beautiful mountain and river views, offering a peaceful escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦋 Butterfly Season Focus

Visit between Oct-Mar for peak butterfly sightings. Go on weekdays for a more serene experience.

👟 Pack Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Trails can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butterfly Valley

Butterfly Valley

Maolin District

Witness thousands of butterflies during their migration season. A truly magical natural spectacle.

Lover's Valley Waterfalls

Lover's Valley Waterfalls

Maolin District

Hike through lush forests to discover stunning waterfalls. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Little Great Wall Trail

Little Great Wall Trail

Maolin District

A scenic hiking path offering panoramic mountain and river views, reminiscent of the Great Wall.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Butterfly Season

Maolin is famous for its butterflies, especially during migration season (typically October to March). Visiting outside this peak can mean fewer sightings. For the best experience, aim for cooler, drier months and try to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Embrace the Outdoors

This is a nature-focused destination with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Consider local transport or a private vehicle, as some hidden gems are best accessed with guidance.

Best Times

When
October - March
Why
Peak butterfly season
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Cooler months
Why
Comfortable for hiking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

高雄人第一次過萬聖節 🚩高雄。凹子底森林公園 
Kaohsiung , Aozihdi Forest Park - 萬聖節活動今天登場囉 移師至凹子底公園盛大舉辦 - 活動6大亮點 1️⃣全台最大南瓜雷射燈光秀 2️⃣百米南瓜燈海 3️⃣萬聖節遊街派對(週六) 4️⃣舞台表演(六、日) 5️⃣萬聖節街頭塗鴉(週日) 6️⃣萬聖節南瓜市集(六、日) - 🎃南瓜雷射燈光秀展示時間 10月25日起至11月3日 每晚7點至9點,每半小時一場 - ▫️地點:高雄市鼓山區神農路南屏路 - #台灣景點 #高雄景點 #農16 #凹子底 #凹子底森林公園 #左營 #高雄 #travel #taiwan #kaohsiung
@alex_a.ni
3.9K likes • 148K views

🦋 Butterfly Season Focus

Visit between Oct-Mar for peak butterfly sightings. Go on weekdays for a more serene experience. Reddit

👟 Pack Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Trails can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. TikTok

A DAY IN A LIFE OF AN OFW HERE IN TAIWAN (DAY OFF EDITON) 3 HRS of Cycling going to 🇹🇼 LOVERS VALLEY WATERFALLS, MAOLIN KAOHSIUNG #ofwtaiwan #taiwan #minivlog #factoryworker #TAIWAN #workabroad #akosirevo #jedegalagency #foryoupage #taiwantouristspot
@akosirevo
3K likes • 52.5K views
MOONWORLD TIANLIAO KAOHSIUNG HOT AIR BALLOON FEST DATES: OCTOBER 04 - OCTOBER 06, 2025 OCTOBER 10 - OCTOBER 12, 2025 6:00 AM - 8:00 AM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE : 500 NTD (5 mins) LOCATION: MOON WORLD PARK BUS: R70B (GASHAN TRAIN STATION) #taiwan #fyp #foryoupage #ofwtaiwan🇵🇭🇹🇼 #touristattraction
@akosirevo
2.3K likes • 62.5K views

🚗 Consider Local Transport

Some hidden spots are best reached with local guidance or private transport. Ask locals for tips! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months or while hiking, carry plenty of water. TikTok

Little Great Wall Wooden Trail 851, Kaohsiung City, Maolin District Private vehicle / Public Transport available 😉 Great wall of china vibes madami umaakyat nauna lang ako 😆 #taiwan #foryoupage #ofwtaiwan🇵🇭🇹🇼 #akosirevo #dronevideo #dji
@akosirevo
1.7K likes • 42.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦋 Butterfly Season Focus

Visit between Oct-Mar for peak butterfly sightings. Go on weekdays for a more serene experience. Reddit

👟 Pack Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Trails can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. TikTok

🚗 Consider Local Transport

Some hidden spots are best reached with local guidance or private transport. Ask locals for tips! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months or while hiking, carry plenty of water. TikTok

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The mountain and river vistas are breathtaking. Drone shots are also popular. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(931 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Maolin for its stunning mountain and river views, describing it as a peaceful and scenic park. The natural beauty, including waterfalls and hiking paths, is a major draw. However, some note that navigating the area can be challenging, and it's best to visit during specific seasons for certain attractions like butterflies.

"The views there are beautiful, it has a park area and a suspension bridge"

Tatiana Joseph

"Very nice mountain and river views.
A must-visit place when you come to Pingtung or Kaoshiung."

游慧雅Lana

"Easy, leisure, scenic park."

余宛霖

What People Like

Beautiful mountain views
Scenic river landscapes
Peaceful park atmosphere

What People Dislike

Navigating spread-out attractions
Crowds during peak season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Kaohsiung, you can take a train to Pingtung or Chaozhou Station, then transfer to a local bus heading towards Maolin. Some visitors opt for private vehicles or taxis for more direct access to specific trails and attractions. TikTok+1

Getting around can be a bit challenging as attractions are spread out. Renting a scooter or hiring a local driver can be convenient. Public buses are available but may have limited schedules. Reddit

Yes, private vehicles are allowed. However, roads can be narrow and winding, especially as you get deeper into the scenic area. Parking availability can vary. TikTok

The Little Great Wall Trail is accessible by private vehicle or public transport. It's a popular spot, so arriving earlier in the day can help avoid crowds. TikTok

While there are public buses connecting to Maolin, dedicated shuttle services within the scenic area might be limited. It's advisable to check local transport schedules in advance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the general scenic area is typically free. However, some specific attractions or events within the area might have separate admission fees. TikTok

Maolin National Scenic Area is generally open year-round. However, individual attractions or visitor centers may have specific operating hours. It's best to check locally for any specific site hours. TikTok

While the main area is free, specific viewing platforms or guided tours for the Butterfly Valley might incur a small fee during peak season. Reddit

Maolin hosts various events, including the popular Moon World Hot Air Balloon Festival and traditional indigenous celebrations. Check local event calendars for dates. TikTok

While not always necessary for the general area, booking guided tours, especially for hiking or cultural experiences, can enhance your visit and is recommended for specific activities. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Butterfly Valley during migration season, the scenic Lover's Valley Waterfalls, and the Little Great Wall Trail for stunning views. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Maolin offers various hiking trails, from leisurely walks to more challenging routes, with beautiful natural scenery. The Little Great Wall Trail is a popular choice. TikTokReddit

Maolin is most famous for its butterflies, especially during migration. You might also spot various birds and other insects in the lush forests. Reddit

Maolin is home to indigenous Rukai and Paiwan communities. You might encounter traditional clothing and cultural displays, especially during local festivals. Reddit

Hiking to the Lover's Valley Waterfalls is a popular way to experience them. Wear appropriate footwear as the trails can be slippery. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Little Great Wall Trail offers panoramic mountain and river views. The suspension bridge and waterfalls are also highly photogenic. TikTok

Drone photography is popular in Maolin, offering unique aerial perspectives of the landscape. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. TikTok

Yes, but be patient and respectful. Try to visit during less crowded times to get better shots without disturbing the butterflies. Reddit

The viewpoints along the Little Great Wall Trail provide excellent photo opportunities. The suspension bridge area also offers great shots of the river and surrounding peaks. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Maolin offers a fantastic outdoor adventure for families. The Little Great Wall Trail is a manageable hike with rewarding views, perfect for little legs. The Butterfly Valley can be a magical experience for children, especially during migration season, offering a chance to see nature up close. TikTok+1

When visiting with children, prioritize safety by ensuring they wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid overwhelming crowds. While some trails might be challenging, there are also more accessible park areas with beautiful scenery that families can enjoy together. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to explore on foot, Maolin is a dream destination. The Lover's Valley Waterfalls and the Little Great Wall Trail are highlights, offering diverse terrain and stunning natural beauty. TikTok+1 Be prepared for varying trail conditions and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Reddit

Beyond the popular spots, local advice suggests there are hidden waterfalls and hiking paths waiting to be discovered. Engaging with locals or hiring a guide can help you uncover these lesser-known gems and experience the true wilderness of Maolin. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Maolin provides a wealth of photographic opportunities, from sweeping mountain vistas to delicate butterflies. The Little Great Wall Trail offers iconic shots, and the suspension bridge is another popular subject. TikTok Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. TikTok

Drone enthusiasts will find plenty of breathtaking aerial perspectives, but always be sure to check and adhere to local drone regulations. TikTok For butterfly photography, patience and visiting during less crowded times are key to capturing stunning close-ups without disturbing the insects. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Maolin's Butterfly Spectacle

Maolin National Scenic Area is renowned for its incredible butterfly migrations, particularly during the cooler months from October to March. The area becomes a vibrant canvas as thousands of butterflies descend, creating a breathtaking natural phenomenon. Visitors often describe the experience as magical and a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Reddit

To truly appreciate this spectacle, timing is crucial. Visiting on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience, allowing for better observation and photography without the hustle of large crowds. While the main viewing areas are accessible, some travelers suggest that going with locals can reveal hidden spots for butterfly observation. Reddit

Remember to be mindful of the environment and the delicate ecosystem. Avoid disturbing the butterflies and stick to designated paths to ensure their habitat remains protected for future migrations. Reddit

Exploring Maolin's Trails and Waterfalls

For the adventurous traveler, Maolin offers a network of scenic hiking trails that lead to stunning natural wonders, including the picturesque Lover's Valley Waterfalls. These trails wind through lush forests, providing a refreshing escape into nature. The Little Great Wall Trail is a popular choice, offering a moderate hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. TikTok+1

When embarking on these trails, comfortable and sturdy footwear is non-negotiable. The paths can be uneven and sometimes slippery, especially after rain. Carrying sufficient water is also essential, particularly during warmer periods, to stay hydrated throughout your exploration. TikTok

Beyond the well-known paths, the area is said to hide various other activities like hidden waterfalls and hot springs, suggesting that local knowledge can unlock even more of Maolin's natural beauty. Reddit Exploring these less-trodden paths can lead to unique discoveries and a deeper connection with the landscape.

Cultural Encounters in Maolin

Maolin National Scenic Area is not only a natural paradise but also home to indigenous Rukai and Paiwan communities. These vibrant cultures add another layer of richness to the visitor experience. Travelers may have the opportunity to encounter traditional clothing, art, and customs, especially during local festivals and events. Reddit

Witnessing traditional land owners dressed in their native attire can be a highlight for many visitors. These encounters offer a glimpse into the unique heritage of the region and provide a deeper understanding of the local way of life. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, engaging respectfully with local communities and attending any available cultural performances can significantly enhance your visit. It's a chance to learn about the history and traditions that are intrinsically linked to the stunning natural landscape of Maolin.

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