Shimen Mountain Trail Introduction
In the concrete jungle replaced by high-rises and the skyline, are you keeping up with the trend of living close to nature and the mountains? Located on the west side of Shimen Reservoir, Shimen Mountain (also known as Xiaozhukeng Mountain) is one of Taiwan's minor peaks, with an elevation of 551 meters. It offers stunning views of Shimen Reservoir, as well as the landscapes of Longtan and Daxi, and even a chance to see Taipei 101! Two popular trails will break your boundaries and expand your horizons! Enter the northern end of the Shimen Mountain Trail from the entrance archway on Minzhi Road, where the first section comprises an original dirt path. On weekends, many vendors gather to sell hiking poles, snacks, and mountain goods. The gentle slope allows for a leisurely pace to enjoy the natural feast of Acacia trees, Paulownia trees, and ferns, while also building up strength to conquer the Hero's Slope. The Hero's Slope, a short 400 meters long, has a height difference of nearly 200 meters, making it challenging and requiring a rope to advance. The alternate trail, Qingchun Trail, is comparatively easier to walk. Upon reaching the summit, the vast dam scenery quickly replaces any sense of fatigue with excitement. After a short rest, head straight to Taiping Mountain at an elevation of 535 meters, where a communication tower stands at the peak, achieving the goal of conquering two mountains in one day! Next to the Shimen Mountain Labor Recreation Center, the Guanyin Statue Trail offers another hiking option; the flat asphalt path is surrounded by art sculptures and dinosaur models, creating a striking contrast that attracts travelers' attention. The stone steps slowly ascend about 400 meters to a viewing platform, with signs guiding you to landmarks visible to the east, west, and north. The 8-meter-tall Guanyin statue stands beside the viewing platform, elegant and pure, observing passing travelers. Continuing towards the Eden Platform leads to the intersection of Hero's Slope Trail and Guanyin Statue Trail - a first-class triangulation point. This spot is not only a popular summit destination for many hikers but also the best place to enjoy the expansive views. Follow the signs to the southern entrance of Shimen Mountain located on Provincial Highway 3.
