Taiwan’s Hidden Gems Make International Headlines: Three Recommended Autumn Hiking Trails in the Suburbs

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

As autumn gradually sets in, travelers can start planning their short autumn getaways. Below are three forest hiking trails on the outskirts of New Taipei City, including the Fish and Fern Trail at Jinguailiao in Pinglin, the Lingjiaoliao Mountain Trail in Wanggu, and the Dongshige Ancient Trail in Pingxi. These three spots have also recently been featured in international travel sections.

1. Pinglin — Fish and Fern Trail at Jinguailiao
The Fish and Fern Trail in Jinguailiao, Pinglin, is a well-known green leisure route in the area. Visitors can enjoy the stream scenery and fern ecology along the Jinguailiao River. The trail boasts rich plant life, including bamboo, cedar, ferns, and wild ginger flowers. Interpretive signs are placed along the path, making it an educational and fun hike for families.

2. Wanggu, Pingxi — Lingjiaoliao Mountain Trail

The Lingjiaoliao Mountain Trail features diverse natural vegetation such as acacia trees, tea trees, and snake root herbs. Along the way, hikers will pass by the “Three Treasures of Lingjiao” — the Tsai Family Mansion, Wanggu Waterfall, and the Lingjiao Ancient Bridge — where you can admire the beauty of Wanggu Waterfall up close. It's one of the rare hidden natural sanctuaries in the city.

3. Pingxi — Dongshige Ancient Trail
The Dongshige Crossing Trail is an ancient path once used by residents of Pingxi and Dongshige. Stretching 3.4 kilometers, the first section passes remnants from the area’s heyday as a coal mining hub. The latter part of the trail mostly follows a tributary of the Dongshige River, where you can enjoy pristine natural scenery. Along the way, you’ll also see the lush terraced fields in front of the No. 13 farmhouse in Dongshige, offering excellent views.