Qiaotan Old Trail Introduction
In the mountainous area at the boundary between Sanyi Township and Tongxiao Township in Miaoli, there is an ancient trail. The dense forest creates a canopy overhead, and the path paved with large cobblestones exudes a tranquil, ancient atmosphere. Walking along it, one feels the gentle breeze and hears the rustling leaves, accompanied by the harmonious sounds of cicadas and birds, which lifts the spirits and clears the mind. In April and May, during the blossoming season of the Tung blossoms, this place transforms into a beautiful world covered in white snow, with delicate and pure Tung flowers blooming on the treetops, dancing in the wind, and carpeting the ground—like a dream. Do not doubt it; this is the seasonal beauty of the "Tiao Tan Ancient Trail." Now, let’s explore this enchanting green tunnel together! The Tiao Tan Ancient Trail is located in the Shuanghu Village of Sanyi Township, now known as the "Santong Ridge Ancient Trail." It was an important route connecting Tongxiao Township and Sanyi Township in earlier days. The trail stretches for 5 kilometers, starting from the Fuxing mountainous area in Tongxiao, leading to Santong Ridge, and then through Dakang and Shikeng to Sanyi Railway Station. Along the way, there are well-preserved Acacia forests, camphor trees, Taiwanese cedar, Tung trees, and native tree species, creating a beautiful landscape with fresh air. Walking along this winding ancient path is like indulging in a forest bath filled with phytoncides. Upon reaching Santong Ridge along the ancient trail, one will find an open platform with excellent views. Looking around, the scenery is clearly visible, including the Taiwan Strait, the Tongxiao Power Plant, and the Iron Drill Mountain. Take a moment to rest, stretch your body against the wind, and take a few deep breaths; nothing is more enjoyable than the vast scenery combined with a leisurely mood! Since the Tiao Tan Ancient Trail is one of the areas with the most Tung trees in Sanyi, every April and May when the Tung flowers bloom, the ancient path dons a new, gentle spring attire. Walking step by step on the rustic cobblestone steps while admiring the waves of white Tung flowers amidst the green sea offers a distinctly different experience. It is recommended to take walks and hikes along the ancient trail, which are not only beneficial for physical and mental health but also allow you to appreciate the different seasonal beauties of the Tiao Tan Ancient Trail! Those who have visited the "Tiao Tan Ancient Trail" will surely remember the "Image Sculpture of the Charcoal Carrier," depicting a figure in a straw hat, wearing shorts, carrying charcoal on a shoulder pole, with a smile on his face, located at the entrance of Dakang Ancient Trail on Miaoli County Road 48. For those preparing to explore the ancient trail, it is also worthwhile to appreciate this sculpture, as it conveys the origin and spirit of the Tiao Tan Ancient Trail. 150 years ago, residents of the Fuxing area in Tongxiao developed a stone staircase path through the rugged mountains to buy essential goods and agricultural products in Sanyi. During the Japanese colonial period, the charcoal-making industry flourished in the mountainous areas of Tongxiao and Sanyi, utilizing Acacia trees. Numerous charcoal kilns emerged in the mountains, and the charcoal produced was transported along this path to Sanyi Railway Station for shipping. Countless charcoal carriers have traversed this "Tiao Tan Ancient Trail," witnessing the prosperous history of the charcoal industry in Miaoli and leaving behind the spirit of hard work and perseverance of the ancestors.
