Sankeng Ecological Park Introduction
Sankeng Natural Ecological Park is located beside the picturesque Shimen Reservoir along the Dahan River, covering an area of approximately 7 hectares. The park features a large ecological lake and surrounding spacious lawn areas. The entire area is constructed using ecological methods, with an extensive planting of local native flowers, grasses, and trees, creating a harmonious blend of natural landscape. Facilities include a recreational park, pavilions, wooden arch bridges, and water channels, as well as connections to the Sankeng Bicycle Path, providing a space for leisure and fitness activities. The surrounding environment of Sankeng Ecological Park is free from industrial development and is adjacent to the reservoir dam, with layered views of lakes and mountains, connected by large sloped green spaces that create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. In autumn, the Taiwan sweetgum trees showcase their vibrant red leaves, adding beautiful colors to the lush treetops, creating a stunning scenery. Sankeng Ecological Park was originally a busy ferry terminal during the Japanese occupation era, which later declined due to river siltation. The area's natural landscape was severely damaged by illegal sand mining and arbitrary landfill actions. Through the efforts of local communities and various stakeholders, the park was redesigned by the Ministry of the Interior's Construction and Planning Agency, introducing water from the Shimen Irrigation System, gradually improving the surrounding vegetation and transforming it into a shimmering and lush natural ecological park. The park demonstrates rich waterfront ecology and is one of the prominent representatives of Longtan Mountain’s beautiful scenery. From the planning phase, it prioritized maintaining original ecology while minimizing human disruption and integrating nature with recreation. Except for the pavilions and viewing bridges, which use concrete, the entire area allows rainwater to naturally seep into the soil. The ecological pool’s perimeter is constructed with natural pebbles, continuously fed by underground and mountain spring water to maintain clarity. The protective embankments are reinforced with treated wooden stakes, providing resting places for birds. Fishing is prohibited in the water pool to enrich the lake's ecology, making the sunset views tranquil and charming. Walking along the wooden plank trail by the lakeshore offers close-up views of the scenic lake and mountain landscapes, allowing visitors to observe birdlife. It is not only suitable for tourists seeking relaxation but also a great spot for wedding photography and ecological observation. Additionally, next to the park is the Dahan River embankment, where visitors can climb the stone steps to enjoy distant views of the Shimen Dam and the Dahan River. The park's rear connects to the well-known Sankeng Iron Horse Trail, a 6-kilometer bicycle path with moderate slopes, perfect for families to ride together. In the summer, visitors can admire the vast green rice fields, while in the autumn and winter, after harvesting, the fields are planted with cosmos seeds to serve as green manure, creating expansive seas of cosmos flowers that present delightful blooms.
