Baling Ancient Trail Ecological Park Introduction
The "Balin Ancient Trail" was originally built by the Atayal people as a community path in the Fuxing area. Unlike ancient roads that circumnavigate mountains, this trail follows the ridgelines straight up. Although it has fallen into disuse over the years due to aging and the construction of roads, it has fostered a rich ecological landscape of flora and fauna. Deeper into the forest, one can find dense and primitive broadleaf forests, as well as plants like the fragrant tree, Balin stone bamboo, blood vine, and dangling farnilan, all showcasing the beauty of natural ecology. Now, the Taoyuan City Government has preserved the remnants of the ancient trail, reconnecting the section from Balin Bridge to Lala Mountain Service Center with new boardwalks and rope bridges. This area also showcases models of the topography and geology of the Balin region in the Butterfly Pavilion, Beetle Pavilion, Broadleaf Forest Pavilion, and Geology Pavilion, integrating local indigenous culture while reopening the long-silent Balin Ancient Trail to create the "Balin Ancient Trail Ecological Park," offering visitors a deep journey that combines nature and culture. Despite being called an "ancient trail," the current pathway is primarily made up of newly built boardwalks, stretching 1.28 kilometers. It integrates local natural landscapes within a tranquil setting. A unique highlight is the "Ecological Exploration Rope Bridge" suspended high among the trees, where visitors can closely observe the canopy ecosystem and experience the sensation of air beneath their feet. As one walks on the rope bridge, they can look down at the blood vines weaving through the forest, feeling the thrill of the wilderness and gaining different perspectives on nature. Due to the rich mountain resources surrounding Lala Mountain, there are currently four pavilions planned within the ecological park: the Butterfly Pavilion, Beetle Pavilion, Broadleaf Forest Pavilion, and Geology Pavilion. The bright exhibition halls display a variety of specimens and ecological explanations. Visitors can reach the Butterfly Pavilion within about five minutes' walk from the visitor center, which showcases the most representative butterfly and insect specimens from the Beiheng area, including a model of the largest purple butterfly in Taiwan. The best time for butterfly watching in Lala Mountain is from March to May each year. The Beetle Pavilion, renovated from a previously unused gazebo, is ideal for family visits to immerse in the beetle world of Lala Mountain. Additionally, there is the Broadleaf Forest Pavilion that introduces the original forest landscape and an explanation pavilion showcasing unique geological features, allowing visitors to understand the distinct ecological resources of Lala Mountain and appreciate the protection of this green asset. After passing through the pavilions and descending along the trail, visitors can reach a viewing platform. Climbing up to the platform offers an expansive view of both the old and new Balin Bridges and the magnificent scenery of the Dahan River below. For those who wish to experience the beauty of the bridge firsthand, they can follow the "Flying Squirrel Walkway" down to Balin Bridge for a close-up view of this new landmark in the Balin area.
