Hsinchu Attraction – Guanwu Recreation Area
The Guanwu Recreation Area serves as the hiking entrance to Mount Dabajian, situated at an altitude of about 2000–2500 meters. It boasts abundant forest resources and was once an important logging site during the Japanese colonial period. After the establishment of Shei-Pa National Park, in order to protect precious mountain resources such as Taiwan red cypress and Taiwan incense-cedar, it was incorporated into the park’s conservation and tourism plans. The area features several forest trails, among which the Hazel Mountain Forest Bathing Trail is the most popular.
In the Guanwu Recreation Area, besides the towering forests and sea of clouds, there is also the Guanwu Salamander, first discovered here in 1996. To conserve this precious ecological species, Shei-Pa National Park has conducted habitat surveys and protection efforts, and has also set up an ecological education center to introduce knowledge about the salamander. The hope is that every visitor to Guanwu can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery but also learn more about the area’s ecology.
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Hsinchu Attraction – Wild Horse Overlook Trail
Of course, when it comes to the best place to view sea of clouds among Hsinchu attractions, the Wild Horse Overlook Trail is definitely the top choice. The “Wild Horse” in Wild Horse Overlook comes from the Japanese word for mountain (YAMA), so Wild Horse Overlook means looking out toward the mountain. Walking along the gentle trail uphill, you’ll be surrounded by tall, ancient trees, and upon reaching the summit, you can see the entire Shei-Pa Ranch, as well as Five Finger Mountain, Goose Ridge Mountain, and the Leshan Radar Station, taking in the beautiful views of sunrise and the ethereal sea of clouds.
Hsinchu Attraction – Dalu Forest Road
Dalu Forest Road was previously mainly used for transporting firewood. After logging operations ceased, it was closed for many years and has finally reopened. Dalu Forest Road is divided into three sections: the main line, the east line, and the west line. The main line is accessible to vehicles and ends at the 28-kilometer point at Guanwu Lodge, where it splits into the east and west lines.
The east line of Dalu Forest Road is one of the entry routes to the Mount Dabajian hiking trail. The entire route is about 35 kilometers long, and a mountain entry permit is required before entering. The west line is 6.8 kilometers long and is relatively more beginner-friendly. It leads to the birdwatching trail entrance, the entrance to the Hazel Mountain Trail, the Parent-Child Tree Planting Garden, and other attractions, making it perfect for autumn hiking.
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Hsinchu Attraction – Baxian Waterfall
Also located on the main line of Dalu Forest Road at the 8.5-kilometer mark is a hidden waterfall that can only be seen during the dry seasons of autumn and winter. You can spot the waterfall by looking down from the roadside. When water flow is low, the shape of the waterfall resembles the Chinese character “Ba” (eight), hence its name, Baxian (Eight Immortals) Waterfall.Its powerful and majestic sight can be felt even from a distance.
After checking out these Hsinchu attractions, can you still stay glued to your computer? This year’s autumn is especially vibrant, making it the perfect time for hiking and enjoying the maple leaves. Take advantage of the cool weather and go for a walk with your friends or family.
[Authorized Repost from Tripbaa Funbaa!] Original article from [Hsinchu Attractions: Mountains and Sea of Clouds – Guanwu Recreation Area × Wild Horse Overlook Trail]
Executive Editor: Hovis
Copy Editor: Reese