The Guanshan Great Cliff Traverse, from Guanshan North Peak → Yingzizui Mountain → Dinosaur Tower → Taguan Mountain, is said to be the most shattered section of the Central Mountain Range’s main ridge. The knife-edge ridgeline tilts eastward, forming steep crumbling cliffs. Along the way, hikers must tackle a 6m rock wall, a 12m chimney, a 10m rock tower rappel, and the infamous 500m knife ridge that can take 3 hours to cross, layered with fragile shale. It’s a high-risk route, requiring both navigation skills on lesser-traveled paths and technical rope setup abilities.
After completing several demanding traverses (BiBe North Cliff, Baba Ridge, Nanhu West Ridge), I had long been drawn to this route. Since the traverse has no reliable water sources, I made the rare decision to go fully lightweight—carrying only essentials. My load included a DSLR with two lenses, technical gear, two days of water, shared group gear/food, totaling 10.8 kg at the start from Kuhanoshin Cabin.
This was my first time testing HANCHOR’s TORNADO fastpack vest-style backpack. Its release sparked much discussion in both trail running and hiking communities, thanks to its rare vest-like carry system. On this 2-day / 2-night Guanshan traverse, the 14–32L expandable volume was more than enough. The pack weighed 630g (size S), and while it comes with a removable hip belt, I didn’t use it at all—yet still found it stable and comfortable.
Here are the reasons I fell in love with the TORNADO:
1. Unshakable stability – Despite scrambling steep rock walls, scree slopes, and angled slabs, the pack never wobbled. It felt like part of my body, giving me full confidence.
2. Breathable vest harness – The mesh material kept me cool and comfortable, even in summer heat.
3. Accessible storage – Front chest pockets let me grab gels and candy while moving. On Day 2, I stashed a harness and carabiners there for quick access in exposed sections without dropping the pack.
4. Secure phone storage – Hidden flap in the chest pocket kept my phone perfectly stable while bushwhacking through arrow bamboo and junipers, yet always ready for quick shots.
5. Stretch side pockets – Surprisingly roomy: each side held two 700ml bottles, with elastic side cords locking them securely. No fear of losing precious water.
6. Independent pad sleeve – The M Pad sleeping mat has a dedicated compartment outside the main pack, so packing order wasn’t restricted.
