The Kite Beak Shaolai Trail is steep and full of challenges. Though it’s a one-day hike, you should bring all necessary gear and register at the Dadong Police Station at the 15K point before entering the mountains just in case.
Chuang Yi noted that many hikers enjoy tying cloth strips to mark paths and even prefer to “develop new routes.” Sometimes they reach dead ends, then turn back without taking down the strips, misleading unknowing visitors onto wrong trails, which can lead to mountaineering mishaps.
The Forestry Bureau is currently doing its best to clear these strips, and also recommends that hikers stick to main routes, travel in groups, wear hard-soled hiking shoes, carry warm clothes or raincoats, and bring along extra lightweight items such as trail snacks, water, lighters, fire starters, knives, salt, whistles, bandages, compasses—to be prepared for any situation.
Mobile phone signals are available for about half the length of the Kite Beak Shaolai Trail. Even if there's no signal, you can still dial the emergency number 112 for help if needed.
Daxue Mountain was once a logging area but was transformed into a forest recreation area after 1985 (Republic of China Year 74), offering accommodation and dining. Visiting in April, you’ll experience high daytime temperatures but only around 13–14°C at night. Be mindful of UV rays and cold weather—it’s best to dress in layers for easy adjustment.
Driving to Daxue Mountain is the most convenient option. From National Highway 1 or 3, transfer to National Highway 4 in central Taiwan to reach Dongshi. After passing through downtown Dongshi, go straight
It is recommended that visitors ascend the mountain no later than 4:00 PM on the first day, wait quietly at the 47K point for the Mikado Pheasant to appear and enjoy the sunset sea of clouds, then spend the night in the Daxue Mountain cabins to stargaze. On the second day, start climbing the Yuanzui Shaolai Trail before 8:00 AM in the morning, and arrange for transportation after descending. On the way back, you can stop by Fengyuan Pastry Street to buy souvenirs or visit Miaodong Night Market for delicious food.