Dadong Mountain Trail Introduction
Dadong Mountain, one of Taiwan's minor 100 peaks, stands at an elevation of 405 meters. It is located at the highest point of Guishan Guilun Ridge, also known as 405 Heights, which is equipped with a first-class triangulation point. This site offers excellent views, allowing visitors to enjoy the cityscape of Greater Taoyuan, and because of its position at the junction of Guishan, Shulin, Shanjia, and Yingge, one can also gaze toward New Taipei City and even Taipei 101. Therefore, whether during the day or at night, Dadong Mountain attracts many hikers and photographers. There are multiple access points to the mountain. If starting from the Yuanguang Bridge, one can climb along the Fuyuan Mountain Trail to Dadong Mountain Road, reaching the 405 Heights in about 4.3 kilometers. The trail along Shiyun Road leads to the century-old Shiyun Zen Temple, where exquisite painted pottery, towering archways, and steep stone steps exude a solemn atmosphere. The ancient trees in front of the temple, including the Jiuqiang, camphor, and eggplant trees, create a dense shade that provides a tranquil resting place for travelers. Returning to Datong Road, the route passes by the Void Zen Temple and the scattered native chicken farms in the mountains, leading to the 405 Heights. An alternative route to the high ground is via the Tukeng Industrial Road, which goes past the Jiashu Chongsu Taoist Temple and Qianfo Temple, stretching about 3.2 kilometers through rich, pristine forests. The 405 Heights features a viewing platform, along with an introduction board for the triangulation point and hydrological observation station. To the east, one can see the Xueshan mountain range and Dahan River; to the west, Guanyin Mountain and Linkou; to the south, Zhongli and the Fuxing mountainous area; and to the north, Tamsui River and Grand Hotel Taipei. The profound emotions felt upon reaching the summit and the cleansing effects of phytoncides make the fatigue from hiking disappear entirely. The rich ecology of Dadong Mountain is another highlight of the journey; during spring and summer, the sight of butterfly species such as the tawny Coster and purple butterfly flutter is common, while autumn brings swaying pampas grass, and winter showcases romantic maple leaves. The 405 Heights not only connects the Dadong Mountain Trail to Qinglong Ridge but also provides access to the Guankong Ridge Butterfly Viewing Trail, where one can admire more than 30 species of wild butterflies.
