Guandao Mountain Trail Introduction
1. Location: Junction of Sanyi Township and Dahu Township 2. Start/End: Miaoli County Road 56 ~ Guandao Mountain Triangulation Point 3. Trail Length: 1.2 kilometers, Walking Time: Approximately 45 minutes one way 4. Trail Route: Shengxing Station - Dacao Pai - Fork Plaza - Mountain Trailhead (Southwest Side, Southeast Side) - Guandao Mountain Triangulation Point With an elevation of 888 meters, Guandao Mountain is the main peak of the Guandao Mountain Range, located at the intersection of Dahu and Sanyi Townships in Miaoli County. The surrounding terrain consists mostly of gently sloping hills, and Guandao Mountain stands out prominently among them, resembling a stork among chickens. To the north of the main peak, steep cliffs plunge down, rising vertically from the valley—it is named for its resemblance to a guandao (a traditional Chinese polearm). The ecology of the Guandao Mountain area is incredibly rich and diverse, with expansive views from the summit that connect to multiple trails leading to attractions such as Shengxing Station, Yutengping Broken Bridge, Liyutan Reservoir, and Shuangtan Leisure Agriculture Park. On weekends, it is common to see groups of people visiting Guandao Mountain to enjoy the fragrant mountain forests. The Guandao Mountain Ridge Ancient Path runs from Shengxing in Sanyi through Guandao Mountain to the newly opened Shuangkeng Bridge (Taiwan Highway 3), while the Guandao Mountain Trail is the western section of this ancient path, connecting Shengxing and Guandao Mountain. This section winds around the tranquil Liyutan Reservoir, presenting a peaceful and elegant atmosphere. Along the trail, one can see acacia trees, fragrant bamboo, oil tea trees, five-branch grass, and many kinds of birds, such as Black-throated Tits, Magpies, White-headed Bulbuls, and Cockatoos, as well as numerous butterflies and reptiles, indicating a rich and diverse life. Take about a 10-minute drive from Sanyi Interchange to Shengxing Station, starting point of the trail, or continue on to the parking lot at Fork Plaza to begin the hike. Opened in 1906, Shengxing Station is the highest point on Taiwan's Western Railway. The wooden station is charmingly old-fashioned, built without the use of any nails in a traditional Japanese architectural style. In April 1999, it was announced by the Miaoli County Government as a designated historic monument due to its significant historical and cultural value, attracting crowds to experience the old mountain line’s railway charm. The surrounding area is lush with flowers and greenery, and during April and May, the white flowers on the oil tea trees adorn the landscape. From Shengxing Station, follow the signs to the right at the fork, continuing uphill past the Tudi Gong Temple and Dacao Pai, with dense tree cover and birdsong along the way. At Fork Plaza, take the cement path from the left rear to access Guandao Mountain. Continue towards the mountain trailhead, and at the right fork, ascend to the abandoned house. The path behind the house leads to the southwestern trailhead of Guandao Mountain. Climb the stone steps to reach the summit, which is not far away. The summit offers a great view encompassing white clouds, rolling mountains, and lush trees. As the sun sets, the gradient of red and orange hues paints the sky, creating a dream-like sunset that prompts visitors to take countless photos. In the autumn and winter, clouds can rise from Guandao Mountain, earning it the title "Fairy Mountain in the Sea." On the left lower side from the open area at the summit, one can find the triangulation point. For the return journey, descend from the southeastern side of the summit via a rope ladder to reach the southeastern trailhead, then head right on the industrial road to connect back to the southwestern trailhead, retracing your steps to return.
