Baleng Ancient Trail Ecological Park Introduction
The "Balings Ancient Trail" was originally built by the Atayal people as a tribal passage in the Fuxing Mountain area. Unlike other ancient paths that circle the mountains, this trail ascends directly along the ridgeline. Although it has fallen into disrepair over time due to neglect and the construction of roads, it has fostered a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna. If one ventures deeper into the forest, they will find dense, pristine broadleaf forests, as well as plants like the Chinese fragrant tree, Balings stone bamboo, bloodvine, and hanging tree ferns, all showcasing the beauty of natural ecology. Today, the Taoyuan City Government has preserved the relics of the ancient trail, reconnecting the section from Balings Bridge to the Lala Mountain Service Center. Along the route, boardwalks and rope bridges have been established, and the surrounding topography of the Balings area is displayed in the Butterfly Pavilion, Beetle Pavilion, Broadleaf Forest Pavilion, and Geological Pavilion. This project combines local indigenous culture and has reopened the long-dormant Balings Ancient Trail, creating the "Balings Ancient Trail Ecological Park," allowing visitors to experience a journey that intertwines nature and humanity. Although referred to as an "ancient trail," the "Balings Ancient Trail" primarily features newly constructed boardwalks. The walking path is 1.28 kilometers long and integrates the local natural scenery into its tranquil trail. The most unique feature is the "Ecological Exploration Rope Bridge," suspended high among the trees, where visitors can closely observe the canopy ecology while experiencing the sensation of floating just above the ground; they can also peek down at the bloodvine weaving through the forest like a dragon, feeling the thrilling excitement and different perspectives of nature. Due to the rich mountain resources around Lala Mountain, the ecological park currently includes four pavilions: the Butterfly Pavilion, Beetle Pavilion, Broadleaf Forest Pavilion, and Geological Pavilion. The bright exhibition halls feature a variety of specimens and ecological interpretations. It's just a five-minute walk from the visitor center to the Butterfly Pavilion, which showcases the most representative butterflies and insect specimens from the Northern Cross-Island Highway, including a model of the largest butterfly in Taiwan, the Purple Emperor; the best time for butterfly watching in Lala Mountain is between March and May each year. The Beetle Pavilion, redesigned from an idle pavilion, is especially suitable for parent-child visits, providing a chance to explore Lala Mountain's beetle world. Furthermore, there is the Broadleaf Forest Pavilion, which introduces the original forest's appearance, along with an interpretation hall showcasing unique geological landscapes, allowing visitors to understand the ecological resources of Lala Mountain and appreciate and protect this green asset. Passing through the pavilions and descending along the path leads to a viewing platform where visitors can climb up and enjoy a panoramic view that includes both Balings Bridge and the older Balings Bridge in one sight, while also overlooking the magnificent scenery of the Dahan River below. If visitors wish to experience the beauty of the bridge up close, they can proceed down via the "Flying Squirrel Corridor" to Balings Bridge, where they can admire this new landmark in the Balings area.
