Yangmingshan National Park, a verdant sanctuary nestled a stone’s throw from the bustling metropolis of Taipei, beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse tapestry of landscapes and invigorating trails. This natural haven offers a compelling escape, a chance to immerse oneself in the serene beauty of Taiwan’s mountainous terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenging ascent or a nature lover yearning for a tranquil stroll, Yangmingshan promises an unforgettable experience.
A visit to Yangmingshan should undoubtedly be on any traveler’s itinerary when exploring Taiwan. The park’s varied elevation gives rise to a multitude of hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural wonders. Among these trails, the ascent to Mount Qixing, Taiwan’s tallest dormant volcano, stands out as a must-do for adventurous souls. Beyond the trails, the park’s lush forests teem with life, showcasing a remarkable biodiversity of over 1,400 plant species. After a fulfilling day of exploration, visitors can unwind in the park’s renowned hot spring zone or simply bask in the tranquil ambiance of this natural paradise.
Here are some of the best hiking trails you shouldn’t miss while visiting 10 Best Hikes in Yangmingshan National Park.
1. Jinbaoli Trail (Yulu Historical Trail)
For history buffs seeking a moderately challenging adventure, the Jinbaoli Trail, also known as the Yulu Historical Trail, offers a captivating journey through time. This ancient path, once a vital trade route, meanders through Yangmingshan Park, connecting the coastal town of Jinshan in New Taipei City with the vibrant district of Shilin in Taipei City. The hike typically takes two to three hours, immersing hikers in a dynamic landscape of forests and streams.
The trail follows an uneven stone-step path, demanding sure footing and adding to the sense of historical authenticity. As you traverse the route, keep an eye out for remnants of the trail’s past, including venerable shrines like the Tudigong shrine, intriguing ruins, and charming stone houses and bridges. The Jinbaoli Trail is more than just a hike; it’s a step back in time, a chance to connect with the history and heritage of the region.
2. Mount Datun Three Peaks
The volcanic basin of Mount Datun is a defining feature of Yangmingshan, and the hike to its three peaks is one of the park’s most popular and exhilarating experiences. Suitable for individuals with a moderate level of fitness, this trek requires sturdy walking shoes and trekking poles, especially for navigating the steeper, roped sections.
However, it’s crucial to exercise caution during or after periods of rainfall, as the trail can become slippery and significantly more challenging. In such conditions, only experienced and confident hikers should attempt the ascent. The majority of the hike winds through dense forest along a stone path, eventually opening into expansive grasslands and dirt paths, with clear signs guiding you across the three peaks. Completing the three-peak circuit typically takes five to six hours, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the park and the sprawling cityscape of Taipei.
3. Tianmu Trail
The Tianmu Trail, a two-hour hike, is a favorite among those hoping to encounter the park’s resident monkeys. The initial climb involves navigating stone stairs, after which you’ll reach a picnic area where you can replenish your water supply. From this point onwards, you might be fortunate enough to spot the native Formosan rock macaques as you follow the relatively flat path through the forest.
The chances of seeing monkeys are higher closer to dusk, but it’s essential to refrain from interacting with or feeding them, as clearly indicated by numerous signs along the trail. To conclude the hike, follow the signs to the Chinese Cultural University, where you can catch buses back towards Taipei. Alternatively, you can tackle the trail in reverse, ending back at Yangmingshan Bus Station for easier access to transportation.
4. Shamaoshan
If you’re pressed for time but still crave a rewarding hike, Shamaoshan, with its volcanic peak, offers a challenging yet concise option. The steep ascent to the summit is the primary challenge, but the well-trodden stone steps make the climb manageable in just about an hour. The trailhead is conveniently located near the parking lot at Yangmingshan Bus Station.
The hike takes you through a lush forest, culminating in a viewing platform at the top that provides stunning views of Prince’s Pavillion and Datunshan. You have two options for descending: retracing your steps or taking the path via Prince’s Pavillion, which leads to Shamao Road between two bus stops with buses heading towards Xinbeitou Station & Beitou Station.
5. Mount Qixing
Mount Qixing, also known as Seven Star Mountain, is the highest peak in 10 Best Hikes in Yangmingshan National Park. This dormant volcano is a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike, thanks to the magnificent panoramic views of the entire park from its summit. The mountain is often shrouded in mist due to the steaming fumaroles in the surrounding area, which can sometimes limit visibility, so be prepared to wait for clearer conditions if you want to take photos.
The moderate hike to the summit and back typically takes around four hours and is suitable for individuals with average fitness. This is a great choice if you have a full day to spend in the park and want to make the most of it. Several trailheads are available, including one conveniently located at Yangmingshan Bus Station.
6. Lengshuikeng to Qingtiangang Trail
Lengshuikeng is a popular rest stop for visitors hiking in Yangmingshan National Park due to the visitor center, which includes a small café with Wi-Fi and a free formal hot spring building and foot spa. It’s also the beginning of the gentle Lengshuikeng to Qingtiangang trail, which takes you past the serene Lengshuikeng Ecological Pond, babbling creeks, and through a forest of cypress and cryptomeria trees before ending at the rural grasslands of Qingtiangang.
You can extend your hike by enjoying the 50-minute Qingtiangang Circular Trail and hopefully seeing the local water buffalo before catching a bus from Qingtiangang Visitor Center. It’s a perfect route for nature lovers and bird watchers.
7. Juansi Waterfall Trail
This gentle one-hour hike near Beitou, following an artificial watercourse, provides a relaxing walk with plenty to see for nature lovers and bird watchers as you traverse forest and stream. You will see Juansi Waterfall on the trail, cross over the Jingshan suspension bridge, and finish at Lengshuikeng Visitor Centre, where you can get a drink and visit the hot spring. The stone path on this hike can get slippery, so make sure you have shoes with a good grip.
8. Xiaoyukeng
Located on Mount Qixing’s northwestern corner, this geological area is known for its steaming furamoles, hot springs, and sulfur crystals. It also provides excellent views over Mount Shamao, Taipei, and the northeast coastline. If you want to carry on up to Mount Qixing, you can follow the one-hour Arrow Bamboo Trail to the peak. You can take the bus to Xiaoyukeng or hike from Yangminshan bus station in around two hours.
9. Erzihping Trail
For anyone looking for a gentle walk to enjoy the beauty and nature of 10 Best Hikes in Yangmingshan National Park, this recreation area has a wooden plank path taking you around the area around the pond with picnic areas and facilities, making it a perfect option for families. Also known as the butterfly trail, you will see many butterflies and insects as you walk. The start of the trail can be found at Erzihping Visitor Center, which can be reached by bus from Yangminshan bus station.
10. Mount Huangzui
The Mount Huangzui Ecological Protected Area is a relatively untouched area covering 640 hectares of land and includes Mount Huangzui, Mount Dajianhou, and Mount Huangzui’s crater lake. Located on the east side of Yangmingshan, there’s a lot to explore here, and trails are quieter as a permit is required for this area of the park.
Due to being a protected area, you can find numerous species of rare birds, plant life, and occasionally water buffalo, making every moment of the hike up Mount Huangzui dynamic. A good level of fitness and experience in hiking is ideal for this hike which takes around eight hours total, more if you would like to relax in the wild hot springs. Most tour groups in Taiwan will be able to obtain a permit for you but be sure to do this at least two weeks to a month in advance.
The 10 Best Hikes in Yangmingshan National Park offer something for everyone, from challenging climbs to leisurely strolls, all within easy reach of Taipei. So, pack your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty of this remarkable national park.
