Natural is best！Taipei revamps hiking trails to promote green mountain travel

By MOOK Travel & Living Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported by Liao Qiyu

As concepts of ecological conservation and sustainable development become more mature, an increasing number of people are seizing holiday time to explore the mountains and embrace the leisurely comfort of green travel. To promote mountain hiking and the philosophy of sustainable ecology, the Taipei City Government’s Department of Public Works, Urban Development Division continues to develop “natural trails” and organizes trail activities to advocate the idea that “natural is best.” This allows everyone to more easily experience the beauty of nature and participate in mountain conservation efforts.

Upholding the principle of “natural is best,” the Urban Development Division aims for “zero increase in impermeable paving and zero loss of natural surfaces.” They transformed the concrete surface of the former abandoned police shooting range on the Cui Shan Trail into grassland, converted the old asphalt concrete surface of the Hengling Trail into a trail made of natural stone and wood chips, and changed the old concrete surface of the Zhongpu Mountain Trail into a natural dirt path—creating “natural trails” that further advance environmental conservation.

To enhance public understanding of natural trails, the Urban Development Division specially organized a natural trail experience event in early October this year along the Xianjiyan Coast Guard Branch Trail. The public was invited to participate, where professional instructors provided explanations and hands-on trail-building activities. Through the sweat poured into the trails, we grow to cherish the natural environment and natural trails even more, jointly protecting our home and ensuring the sustainable development of the ecological environment.