Taroko’s “Circulation Mound Trail” Reopens, Displaying the Bleak Beauty of Autumn with Withered Branches and Yellow Leaves

▲ The Taroko Circulation Mound Trail has reopened. (Photo / Courtesy of Taroko National Park official website)

By reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive report

There's a new spot to explore in Taroko National Park now!* The Circulation Mound Trail, located in the Buluowan Recreation Area of Taroko National Park, has been renovated and reopened after a period of maintenance. The newly upgraded trail features specially designed wheelchair-accessible ramps and additional observation platforms for rest and sightseeing. It’s currently the blooming season for Lycoris aurea (golden spider lilies), making a walk along the trail to admire the sea of flowers an especially delightful experience.

▲ The renovated Circulation Mound Trail is now smoother. (Photo / Courtesy of Taroko National Park official website)

The Taroko National Park Administration stated that the Circulation Mound Trail is located at the edge of the lower terrace of Buluowan and is covered with many gneiss boulders — a unique landform formed during the development of the Liwu River. The wooden boardwalk surrounds the entire mound, covering about 300 meters, offering views of the Liwu River valley and the dams along the river. Due to its short length, easy accessibility, beautiful scenery, rich ecology, and suitability for all ages, it has become a must-visit attraction for many who come to Buluowan. However, as the trail facilities were aging, it underwent renovation this year to provide better-quality facilities.

▲ It’s now the season for golden spider lilies. (Photo / Courtesy of Taroko National Park official website)

The renovated Circulation Mound Trail largely follows the original path, with the entire walkway built as an elevated boardwalk. In addition, the design incorporates principles that harmonize with the local natural ecological landscape. The eastern section of the boardwalk is planned as a gentle slope recreation route, and a new observation platform has been added to enjoy the scenery. In addition to the existing forest vegetation, the park administration has also planted Formosan lilies and golden spider lilies here, which bloom in spring and autumn respectively, showcasing the charm of different seasons. Among them, golden spider lilies bloom around National Day in October every year, hence they are also known as “National Day Flowers.” It’s now their most beautiful time, and if you want to enjoy a different view of Taroko, be sure to take a walk here.