Dadong Mountain Trail Introduction
Dadong Mountain, listed as one of Taiwan's Minor 100 Peaks, stands at an elevation of 405 meters. It is located at the highest point of the Guishan Guileun Ridge, also known as 405 Highland, and features a first-order triangulation point. This location offers excellent views, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery of the Greater Taoyuan area. Positioned at the junction of Guishan, Shulin, Shanjia, and Yingge, it also boasts a panoramic view of New Taipei City, and even as far as Taipei 101. As a result, Dadong Mountain attracts many hikers and photographers both during the day and at night. There are multiple entrances to the mountain. If starting from Yuanguang Bridge, hikers can ascend via the Fuyuan Mountain Trail to Dadong Mountain Road, which is approximately 4.3 kilometers to reach the 405 Highland. Along the way, a fork at Shiyun Road leads to the century-old Shiyun Temple, which is adorned with exquisite painted pottery, towering archways, and steep stone steps, creating a solemn atmosphere. The century-old trees such as the Cinnamomum camphora and the Ficus microcarpa in front of the temple provide dense shade, allowing travelers to find tranquility. Returning to Datong Road, hikers pass by the Void Zen Temple, as well as the local chicken farm nestled in the mountains, which is part of the route to 405 Highland. An alternative path to the highland is via the Tuheng Industrial Road, leading through the Jiashu Zhongshu Daoist Temple and Qianfo Temple, totaling about 3.2 kilometers, with abundant primitive forests along the way. At 405 Highland, there is an observation platform along with informational boards regarding the triangulation point and hydrological observation station. Looking east, one can admire the Xueshan Mountain Range and the Dahan River; to the west, Guanyin Mountain and Linkou; to the south, Zhongli and the Fuxing Mountain area; and to the north, Tamsui River and the Grand Hotel. The profound emotion of reaching the summit and the refreshing scent of phytoncides dissipate any fatigue from hiking. The rich ecology of Dadong Mountain is also a highlight of the journey; during spring and summer, one can often see butterflies like the swallowtail and purple butterfly flitting about. In autumn, the miscanthus sways, and in winter, the maple leaves create a romantic scene. The 405 Highland not only connects to the Dadong Mountain Trail leading to Qinglong Ridge but also to the Guanguang Ridge Butterfly Viewing Trail, where over 30 species of wild butterflies can be appreciated.
