From historic trails to scenic coastal paths and the challenge of hiking across countless peaks, Taiwan offers an extraordinary trekking experience. One of the most captivating destinations is Taipingshan, where mist-covered ancient forests and myth-shrouded trails invite exploration. Here, nature’s timeless beauty and mystery unfold with every step.
Taiwan is not only the home of addictive bubble tea, infamous stinky tofu, and an iconic skyscraper that resembles a towering bamboo stalk — it is also a lush haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers of all levels from across the globe. The country is packed with an astonishing number of national parks and forests, myriad peaks and evergreen wilderness, and hiking trails walked by indigenous people centuries ago. It offers an unadulterated eco-antidote for those who’d like to escape the rattling nuisances of city life, rejuvenate their senses through a slow walk, and enjoy a dopamine detox in the verdant embrace of deep woods.
Taipingshan: Wander through trails as old as time
One of the densely forested sites suited for trekking and soaking up lush tranquility is Taipingshan Forest Recreation Area. This pristine forestland holds legendary significance in Taiwan. Located in the northern part of Yilan, it covers 120 km² of scenic trails, lush greeneries, alpine lakes, thermal hot springs and hilly landscape, much of which sits between 500 to over 2,000 meters above sea level. Its location and altitude keep the forest cloaked in fog and moisture nearly all year round, blessing the trails with leafy canopies, lush moss carpets, and flourishing biodiversity — majestic sights and mystical sensations that leave travelers in a fairytale-like trance.
Back in the days before ecotourism pervaded the ancient woodlands, the indigenous Ayatal people called the forest Mien Nao, which means “thick and green forest”. In 1915, it was discovered by Japanese officers who changed its name to Taipingshan, which means “mountain of great peace”. With its abundance of sky-piercing cypress, hemlock, pine, maple, and cedar trees, Taipingshan was used extensively for logging operations during the Japanese occupation. Once logging in ancient forests was banned across Taiwan, it was then repurposed as a forest recreation area for those who hanker to reconnect with nature and surrender to the stillness of mossy trails where mist kisses the treetops.
Step into the misty splendor of Jialuo Lake Trail
Among the great range of trails in the expansive dreamscape of Taipingshan, the Jialuo Lake Trail (aka Tai Jia Thru Hike) always draws attention, luring wanderers with its time-stopping charm and wondrous vista that await along the unspoiled hike. The 20 km jungle walk, which can be concluded comfortably in three days, may seem like a physically demanding pilgrimage to an unexperienced trekker, yet it is very achievable and will be incredibly rewarding once finished.
This scenic, lush trail is filled with highlights that never cease to intrigue: from a cascading waterfall that breaks the forest’s silence with its refreshing symphony to a fog- blanketed campsite lake that soothes all passing souls with its sleepy serenity; from a winding path where mist curls through towering cypress trees, like incense in a temple, to the spectacular formation of tree roots sculpted by nature that resemble a gallery centerpiece; from awe-inspiring giant trees that stand tall against the test of time to velvety moss that cushions the ground with moist suppleness. Here, enchanting is an understatement and forest bathing anything but dull.
