Dongyan Mountain National Forest Recreation Area Introduction
The Dongyan Mountain National Forest Recreation Area, about an hour's drive from Daxi, was once a logging site managed by the Forestry Bureau (formerly known as the Forest Service). It leaves behind many remnants of the forestry industry, such as logging machines, cableways, and trolleys, which can be found hidden alongside the intellectual trails. Today, you can stroll through the misty and beautifully maintained coniferous forest, climbing to the summit at an elevation of 1,212 meters to enjoy the scenery from Taoyuan to the Greater Taipei area. Beside the Dongyan Mountain trail stands a tree-planting memorial stone, testifying to the history of Taiwan's forestry. Dongyan Mountain boasts rich biodiversity, home to about 43 species of mountain birds and numerous mammals, including the white-faced flying squirrel, which can only be seen at mid- to high-altitude regions. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms; in summer, the daylight is filled with cicadas and various frogs at night; and in autumn, the Dongyan Mountain trail is tinged with a deep autumn melancholy. Notably, there are many Taiwan rabbits living here, so be sure to watch your feet while walking through the forest! Additionally, the fossil area located alongside the Dongyan Mountain trail features fossils and landscapes with a history of millions of years, accompanied by trace fossils and sedimentary geology, creating a very pleasant walk to the entrance of the Dongman trail. If you have the chance to visit Daxi, you might consider arranging a trip to the Dongyan Mountain National Forest Recreation Area for a refreshing journey in the forest!
Photo provided | Hsinchu Branch
Photo provided by Hsinchu Branch
