Mingfeng Old Trail Introduction
The Mingfeng Ancient Trail, spanning between Touwu and Shitan, was originally a mountain path used by the Saisiyat people for hunting. Later, due to Huang Nankiu leading Cantonese migrants to cultivate Miaoli, the Saisiyat people migrated further into the mountains, and the ancient trail became a vital route for residents of Mingfeng Village in Touwu Township and Xindian Village in Shitan Township to transport goods. It became overgrown after the establishment of County Route 22 but has since been restored by the efforts of the residents and is now a popular hiking destination. Visitors can access the Mingfeng Ancient Trail by foot from either the Yimin Temple in Shitan Township or the Yundong Palace in Touwu Township, with the descent from Yundong Palace being more gradual. If starting from the Yimin Temple, it is recommended to visit the temple first. Here, not only are sacrifices made to the ancestors who lost their lives during the Qing Tongzhi period of development, but "Huang Mantoujia" of Huang Nankiu is also worshipped, and historical materials from the era of cultivation are preserved. Behind the Yimin Temple, crossing the new Xindian River suspension bridge via the Red Ribbon Ropeway, you will find the sign for the Mingfeng Ancient Trail. Following the stone steps under the dense foliage, you will gradually ascend through aromatic camphor trees, bamboo groves, and acacia trees mixed with tung trees. During the months of April and May, the blossoming tung flowers create a snowy white carpet on the ground, adding a touch of romance, while butterflies flutter nearby and birds chirp in the air, making the heat of summer fade away. As the trail steepens, passing through grapefruit and citrus orchards, you will step onto old stone steps and walk alongside the stream, reaching the serene Lover’s Valley after two wooden bridges, surrounded by lush greenery and giant rocks on the west side, offering beautiful scenery. Continuing along the Mingfeng Ancient Trail, you will encounter a stone path with a gradient of 30 to 40 degrees, shaded by tall trees and filled with birdsong. As you reach the bend in the trail, a graceful wooden pavilion appears, providing a resting spot for travelers. After passing the pavilion, you will successively walk through expansive groves of camphor trees and acacia forests, with centuries-old acacia trees standing silently. Shortly after passing the century-old acacia trees, you will arrive at the peak of the Mingfeng Ancient Trail. This elevated position offers a great vantage point to enjoy the layered mountain views and features a pavilion for resting. Descending along the steps leads you to another entrance of the ancient trail, Yundong Palace. Yundong Palace is bustling with activity, and its intricately carved architecture is worth admiring. The palace also offers accommodations, meals, and a park for visitors, developing into the Mingfeng Mountain Recreational Area, which is also an excellent spot for overlooking Miaoli.
