Xuejian Recreation Area Introduction
Xuejian Recreation Area is located at an altitude of 1,870 meters and covers approximately 9 hectares. Within the area, you can see the majestic "Sheng Ridge" and "Great Snow Ridge," along with beautiful views of the Daan River valley. The diverse forest types in Xuejian Recreation Area provide abundant food sources for wildlife, making the area's animal resources quite diverse, especially characterized by mammals, birds, and reptiles. After an enjoyable time playing in the water, we will take you directly to the mountain peak, where you can experience the tranquility of "only in this mountain, the clouds are deep and unknown." Over 80% of Miaoli County's area consists of mountains and hills, making it renowned as a "mountain town." The forest resources are diverse and rich, showcasing lush forests, natural ecology, and spectacular alpine sea clouds that leave visitors in awe; every moment spent here makes time feel like it stands still, with only a sense of wonder lingering in the mountains. The "Erben Pine" located in the snowy Xuejian Recreation Area of Xueba National Park in Taian Township is at an altitude of 1,870 meters and spans about 9 hectares. You can see the impressive "Sheng Ridge" and "Great Snow Ridge" along with the picturesque views of the Daan River valley. The diverse forest types within the Xuejian Recreation Area provide rich food sources for wildlife, resulting in a variety of animal resources, with mammals, birds, and reptiles being the most distinctive. With lush mountains and rich ecology, it is set to open to the public this summer vacation, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of Taian's deep forests. The Erben Pine Interpretation Station, located about a 20-minute drive from the Xuejian Visitor Center, has already opened. Surrounded by dense bamboo forests, Taiwan incense cedar, and Alishan cyprus, this serene landscape captivates visitors. Now, let us take you to explore this tranquil mountain forest. Upon entering Taian Township, after winding along the mountain roads, we finally find ourselves at the Daan River, which lies quietly at our feet at an altitude of 1,500 meters. The thick tree cover completely blocks the sunlight, and the air becomes exceptionally fresh and comfortable. The wooden planks at Erben Pine Interpretation Station are easy to walk on, so we deliberately slow down to carefully appreciate the plants, animals, and natural scenery along the way, with surprises around every corner. The viewing platform along the trail offers broad views, and looking ahead, one can genuinely feel the essence of "the clouds are deep and unknown," while looking down, the Daan River winds and flows between two towering mountain sides, appearing like a shining silver ribbon draped across the earth. The name "Erben Pine" comes from two pine trees that stood in front of the former police station during the Japanese occupation (Erben Pine Police Station). Although the building no longer exists, one of the trees has dried up but is still standing. A path next to the starting point of the boardwalk leads to the site of the former Maru Field artillery position. However, the original base and cannon have long since disappeared; only a sign remains to evoke memories. Although the artillery position is no longer visible, walking through, the forest transitions from thick, straight bamboo to towering Taiwan incense cedar and Alishan cyprus, with both distinctly different forest types possessing their own unique beauty that leave people enchanted. **Xuejian Visitor Center** Before visiting the Erben Pine Trail, guests can first tour the Xuejian Visitor Center, which provides complete and detailed indoor exhibits that introduce the culture of Taian and the beauty of its ecology. The characteristic architecture that blends with the natural ecology and the surrounding scenery is also worth seeing. As access roads to Xuejian Recreation Area are often interrupted by rain, it is advisable for visitors to check with the Xuejian Visitor Center before their trip.
