Last year, Dakan Trail 1 was damaged by heavy rain, resulting in slope collapses and partial path destruction, while Trail 6 suffered from aging facilities and soil erosion. The Taichung City Government allocated funds to prioritize repairs on the most severely damaged sections of both trails. Work began in April this year, took over six months, and has now been successfully completed and reopened, greatly improving trail safety.
Tourism Bureau Director Lin Xiaoqi said the newly repaired Trails 1 and 6 are part of the eastern and western hiking trail clusters within the Dakan Scenic Area, respectively. Dakan Trail 1 on the eastern side is the northernmost hiking trail of Toukeng Mountain, with an elevation ranging between 395 and 700 meters. Located in a forested area, the trail features winding paths through valleys, lush trees, and abundant biodiversity. Meanwhile, Dakan Trail 6 on the western side is one of the trails within the Xiping Mountain range. Closer to the urban area, it offers safer paths and connects to Trails 7 to 10, making it suitable for family outings.
Lin pointed out that the focus of the repairs for both trails was to restore the original routes, reinforce slopes, and improve overall walking safety. This included rerouting damaged sections using Acacia wood boardwalks, filling gaps in existing slate surfaces with crushed stones, and adding mortar-laid cobblestones for slip resistance. Additionally, new permeable log-frame staircases were installed, along with rest benches and double-rope handrails.
Lin added that for areas with unstable slopes, micro-piles, soil nails, and timber retaining walls were installed. Protective netting was also added to slopes. With both trails recently completed, they have received positive feedback from hikers. The public is welcome to come and enjoy a hike while experiencing the beauty of nature.
The Tourism Bureau emphasized that the city government continues to maintain and renovate trails in phases. Construction is carried out in segmented closures, ensuring no more than two trails in the same cluster are closed at the same time, so as not to affect the hiking experience. Currently, Trails 2, 3, and 10 are under renovation, with safety warning tapes set up at the sites to remind visitors not to enter restricted areas. The latest updates on trail construction can be found online (https://www.scenic.taichung.gov.tw).
(China Times)