Manabanyan Mountain Trail Introduction
Located at the border of Dahu Township and Tai'an Township, Mount Manabhan stands at an elevation of 1,406 meters. It is shrouded in mist throughout the year, presenting a magnificent sea of clouds that is truly a marvel. The section with the ancient battlefield memorial is one of the most famous spots for admiring the maple leaves in Taiwan. Every autumn and winter, the mountains are adorned with vibrant red maple leaves, attracting a continuous stream of visitors coming to enjoy the scenery. It is renowned as "North Ma (Mount Manabhan) and South Ao (Aowanda)." There are three routes to choose from when ascending Mount Manabhan: 1. **Dongxing Natural Lake Route**: Trailhead - Natural Lake - Beech Forest - Grand Rock Wall - Mount Manabhan. Along the Natural Lake line, there is a strawberry farm where sweet red strawberries are ready for harvest from December to February each year. Next to the natural lake, you can find a beech forest with lush trees. After passing the Grand Rock Wall, you can reach the summit of Mount Manabhan. 2. **Dongxing Pearl Lake Route**: Changqiao Shiziting (Trailhead) - Fork - Ancient Battlefield - Shimen - Mount Manabhan. The best sections for maple viewing are between Shimen and the ancient battlefield memorial. You can stroll along a curved path weaving through straight bamboo groves, or take the most well-preserved Pearl Lake line that goes through the primeval forest, enjoying the beautiful red maples. Shimen and the ancient battlefield leave traces of the courageous Atayal people’s resistance against Japanese rule, telling stories of the past. Upon reaching the summit, you can fully appreciate the spectacular sacred ridge line between Xueshan and Daba Mountain, overlooking the rolling sea of clouds, creating an awe-inspiring view. The expansive vista of the mountain forest is captivating, leaving travelers who visit this place in admiration!
