New Taipei City’s “Free” 5 Scenic Spots Are Super Photogenic – Enjoy the Gentle Healing of Nature!

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

New Taipei City covers a vast area and boasts many beautiful landscapes of mountains and waters, gently healing all weary hearts. Why spend money on fun? ETtoday EBC News Cloud has specially selected free natural scenic spots in New Taipei City. Each place is incredibly photogenic with breathtaking views. Why not take a walk in the mountains and waters on a holiday to recharge with some positive energy from nature!

▲ The must-shoot angle at Yushan is sitting on a 300-meter-high rock and taking a thrilling photo with your feet dangling in the air. (Photo / IG@ting_1018_Provided, please do not reproduce without permission)

Yushan

Near Sanxia Old Street, there is a hidden gem called “Yushan.” The view from the top is absolutely stunning, offering a panoramic sight of National Freeway No. 3, Sanxia, and Yingge. Not only that, but you can also take photos here that resemble the cliff-hanging shots at Yilan’s Eagle Rock or Beitou’s Battleship Rock—super thrilling.

The Yushan Trail is about 5.7 kilometers long, with an altitude of just 321 meters. It’s quite relaxing to slowly climb up along the mountain path while enjoying the scenery. Especially during the tung blossom season in March and April, the snow-white blossoms create a romantic atmosphere.

Address: Yufeng Road, Sanxia District, New Taipei City

▲ The ridge with cliffs on both sides is thrillingly exhilarating. (Photo / Provided by netizen lovefb731, please do not take photos without permission)

Stegosaurus Ridge

Located in New Taipei], this is a hidden hiking spot – the Stegosaurus Ridge, which rises abruptly between sea level altitudes of 200 to 700 meters. Together with the connected Sawtooth Ridge, it’s known as the “most thrilling ridge,” attracting many hikers eager to explore and challenge this vertigo-inducing trail. Though the altitude isn’t particularly high, reaching the summit isn’t easy, and the path is almost entirely lined with nearly 90-degree vertical cliffs on both sides, requiring constant focus.

Stegosaurus Ridge Trailhead
Taiwan Route 2, 80.2K / Trailhead at Earless Teapot Mountain

▲ Waves flow through stone basins, and the green stone pools are like mountain mists hidden in clouds.

Laomei Green Stone Pools

With the arrival of spring, green vitality spreads across the originally gray-black stone pools of Taiwan’s northern coast. Located in the quaint Laomei community of Shimen, New Taipei City, the unique “stone pool” landform creates a seasonal spectacle where large amounts of seaweed attach to the pools from mid-March to mid-May. Coupled with the flow of white waves, the green stone pools resemble misty mountains, becoming a popular limited-time scenic spot.

*Please help preserve this beauty—do not stand on the green stone pools.

▲ The visual effect of Thousand Island Lake being divided by surrounding mountains makes it look like many small lakes, which is quite unique. (Photo / IG@purplecha35Provided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement)

Shiding Thousand Island Lake

Located in Shiding, New Taipei City, Thousand Island Lake has been hailed by travel-loving netizens as one of “Taiwan’s must-visit hidden gems.” When viewed from afar, especially when shrouded in mist, the winding waterways paired with emerald-green mountains present a majestic beauty. The blue-green lake water adds an air of mystery. Particularly when viewed from Yong’an Community in Shiding District, Feitsui Reservoir is divided by the surrounding mountains into several small lakes, resembling China’s famous Thousand Island Lake.

Address: Yong’an Village, Shiding District, New Taipei City (around 27 km along Beiyi Highway, turn right after seeing the large “Yong’an Community” stone to reach the location)

▲ Just a five-minute walk along the trail leads to Dream Lake. (Photo / IG@z898720000Provided)

Xinxin Dream Lake

Located in Xizhi District, New Taipei City, Xinxin Dream Lake actually consists of two attractions: Xinxin Trail and Dream Lake. Among them, Dream Lake, situated at an altitude of 325 meters, is also known as the “Angel’s Secret Realm,” which can be reached in just a five-minute walk along the trail.

Dream Lake got its name because in winter afternoons, mist often rises above it, creating a dreamy, fairy-tale-like scene. Originally private land, the owner generously shares the beauty of Dream Lake with everyone, does not charge an entrance fee, and even runs a “Dream Lake Café” by the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake and mountain views while sipping coffee—a truly delightful experience.

Address: Xinxin Dream Lake Road, Xizhi, New Taipei City (Take Xiwang Road uphill, turn right onto Dream Lake Road, and drive 3.5 km to reach the trailhead)

▲This year“Best Friends Picnic Day”The lineup is even more amazing ! On May 6 (Saturday), don’t forget to head to Huashan Central Arts and Culture Park to enjoy music and dancing together.