Yilan Mandarin Duck Lake

　　Mandarin Duck Lake is situated deep in the mountains at the junction of Hsinchu County and Yilan County, and is one of the upper tributaries of the Tamsui River. At an altitude of approximately 1,670 meters, the lake stretches 575 meters in length and 200 meters in width, covering an area of about 3.6 hectares—shaped much like a spoon. As for the origin of its name, it is said that mandarin ducks are often seen on the lake’s surface. In the past, there was a soldier who came to this remote area and, feeling lonely, carved a pair of mandarin ducks on a tree. Over time, the carving faded, but the name stuck. Others say the name comes from the resemblance of the lake’s shape to two ducks facing each other. No matter the story, it is indeed a serene and secluded paradise.

　　Due to its location in northeastern Taiwan and high elevation, the valley—shaped like a pouch—traps the cool, moist air brought by the northeastern monsoon, often shrouding the lake in thick fog, lending it a mysterious and hazy aura. This humid environment has fostered a unique ecological system. Coupled with its remoteness, the aquatic ecosystem remains well-preserved, leading to its designation as a nature reserve. The protected area includes not only the lake itself but also surrounding wetlands and native cypress forests, covering a total of 374 hectares.

　　Access to the lake begins at the reserve gate along Forest Road 100. A roughly 1-kilometer trail leads to the lakeshore, lined with pristine, dense woodland. Upon reaching the lake, a gravel path continues halfway around the perimeter. Along the trail, fallen trees often lie across the path, requiring visitors to duck and weave through them. Occasionally, the faint croaking of “Gua-Gua-Gua” frogs can be heard. When the fog lifts, the lake’s surface becomes a mirror-like expanse, with mandarin ducks and mallards gliding gently across the water—an idyllic scene of tranquility.

　　Transportation Directions: From Yilan or Luodong train stations, take a Ubus bus bound for Lishan, Nanshan, or Taipingshan. Get off at Jianshihyuan and transfer to a shuttle bus, or hike the approximately 1.5-hour trail from the bus stop. The final stretch involves a moderately steep path.

　　Special Notes: Mandarin Duck Lake is now a nature reserve where hunting or any activities that damage or alter the local ecology are strictly prohibited. Access is limited to academic research groups only. Visitors must obtain a Type A Mountain Entry Permit and also apply for a Protected Area Access License from the Veterans Affairs Council’s Reforestation and Conservation Management Office. The office address is No. 100, Lin Sen Road, Yilan City; telephone (03) 938-2420 ext. 220, contact the Recreation Section.