Roam healing forest trails – 5 hidden woodland gems

By MOOK Scenic Spots, compiled and reported
 
Work really drains the soul, you need to step into the forest to heal your body and mind. These five woodland micro-hidden gems are perfect for a weekend getaway！

1.Jianqing HuaiGu Trail
 
Taiping Mountain used to have a thriving forestry industry, and the Jianqing HuaiGu Trail is a remnant of that history. The trail stretches 2.35 km and was developed from parts of the old timber transport railway line on the Jianqing Route of Taiping Mountain. The area still retains the historic rail tracks. Walking along the Jianqing HuaiGu Trail, you follow the old forest railway that once carried timber. On sunny days, enjoy the view of Mt. Dabajian in the distance, and when the weather turns cloudy, admire the sea of clouds. It’s a relaxing experience where nature and human history blend seamlessly.
 
Location: 22.3K on Yizhuan No. 1 Road, Taiping Mountain, Datong Township, Yilan County

2.Dingshi Zhaobu Trail Group
 
The Dingshi Zhaobu Trail Group is located near Shizhuo on the Alishan Highway. The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area has refurbished and extended existing trails to launch five new routes: Mist Trail, Tea Trail, Cloud Trail, Sunset Trail, and Cherry Blossom Trail. Together with connecting service roads, the total length is about 5 km, with an altitude ranging from 1,370 to 1,699 meters. The hike takes about two hours. Each of the five trails has its own unique features, offering views of misty landscapes, cloud scenes, sunset light over tea plantations, cedar forests, and bamboo groves. Walking through the bamboo forest gives the illusion of being in Kyoto’s Arashiyama.
 
Location: Near 61K on Alishan Highway, Chiayi County

3.Jiuliaoxi Nature Trail
 
Located within the Jiuliaoxi Ecological Park, this 1.8 km natural trail winds through lush forest, where you can observe rich natural ecosystems including verdant trees and waterfall views. The round-trip hike takes about 90 minutes and is not too challenging, making it great for a leisurely outdoor trip. Along the way, dense tree cover and babbling streams surround you, while ferns and vines cling to tree trunks and cliffs like an aerial garden.
 
Location: Linjia Lane, Xibei Village, Datong Township, Yilan County

4.Danlan Ancient Trail
 
The “Danlan Ancient Trail” was the main route during the Qing Dynasty from Tamsui to Kavalan, which corresponds to the modern path between Taipei and Yilan. This historic trail, rich in culture and biodiversity, connects Ruifang to Aodi, Fulong, Shicheng, and Dali. Soak up the healing energy of mountain trails while breathing in the phytoncides of history.