Manabanshan Trail Introduction
Located at the border of Dahu Township and Taian Township, Mount Manabong stands at an elevation of 1,406 meters and is often shrouded in mist, offering a magnificent view of the sea of clouds. The section with the ancient battlefield memorial is one of the most famous spots for maple viewing in the country. Each autumn and winter, the mountains are adorned with vibrant red maple leaves, attracting a constant stream of tourists eager to enjoy the scenery, earning it the reputation of "North Ma (Manabong Mountain) and South Ao (Aowanda)." There are three routes available to hike Mount Manabong: the "Dongxing Natural Lake Route," the "Dongxing Upper Lake Route," and the "Dongxing Pearl Lake Route." [Dongxing Natural Lake Route] Trailhead - Natural Lake - Beech Forest - Large Rock Wall - Mount Manabong. Along the Natural Lake Route, you can see a strawberry farm, which is lush with sweet, ripe strawberries ready for harvest from December to February of the following year. Next to the natural lake, you can see the beech forest and dense foliage. After passing the large rock wall, you can reach the summit of Mount Manabong. [Dongxing Pearl Lake Route] Long Bridge Lion Pavilion (trailhead) - Fork - Ancient Battlefield - Stone Gate - Mount Manabong. The best sections for viewing maple trees are located between the Stone Gate and the ancient battlefield memorial. You can walk along a curve through straight bamboo forests, passing by the sky-dangling cave (bat's home), or take the Pearl Lake route, which has the most well-preserved primitive forest, to enjoy the beautiful maple scenery. The remnants of the ancient battlefield and Stone Gate recount the heroic resistance of the Thao people against Japanese colonization, telling a story of history. Upon reaching the summit, you can take in the spectacular Sanling Ridge between Xueshan and Daba Mountain, overlooking the rolling sea of clouds, which is truly a wonder. The vast mountain forest scenery is breathtaking, leaving travelers in awe!
