Taiwan’s Most Scenic Running Route: Xitou Forest Recreation Area Hosts a Race Without Closing the Park

▲ A beautiful attraction in Xitou Forest Recreation Area — University Pond. (Photo / Courtesy of the 2013 Xitou “Mitai Cup” Forest Running Race official website)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

“This is the freshest and most beautiful running route in all of Taiwan!” said the Taiwan Marathon Association. The Mitai Cup Forest Running Race, taking place on October 26 in Nantou’s Xitou Forest Recreation Area, covers a distance of 10 kilometers. The course will pass by famous attractions such as the Sacred Tree, the Canopy Walkway, University Pond, and the Youth Activity Center, allowing participants to enjoy the forest’s phytoncides and natural beauty along the way.

▲ The Canopy Walkway (left) and scenic views along the Xitou Forest Recreation Area running course. (Photo / Courtesy of the 2013 Xitou “Mitai Cup” Forest Running Race official website)

Organizers noted that the Ten Thousand People Swimming Across Sun Moon Lake is a “water” event, while the Xitou Forest Running Race is a “mountain” event — together they perfectly represent the harmony of water and mountain. What’s more special is that this running course is truly one of a kind. Runners can enjoy the rare experience of being surrounded by greenery while listening to birdsong and the sounds of insects. The entire route takes runners through some of the most beautiful spots in the Xitou Scenic Area. While running, don’t forget to look up and admire the stunning scenery.

The race begins at 7:00 AM and covers a full 10 kilometers at an altitude of about 1,300 meters. Since the Xitou Forest Recreation Area will not be closed to the public on the day of the event, both participants and regular visitors can enjoy the area’s most beautiful route. Organizers also remind everyone to yield to runners and cheer them on when encountering them on the course.

▲ Xitou Youth Activity Center. (Photo / Courtesy of the Xitou Nature Education Area website)