Guangtian Mountain Trail Introduction
Guangtian Mountain is located southwest of the Xiangtian Lake Tribe in Nantou, Miaoli County, standing at an elevation of 1,123 meters. It was historically a place for the Saisiyat people to hunt and harvest timber, and it is currently preserved as the No. 32 forestry reserve area by the Nantou Forest District. The hiking trail to Guangtian Mountain features a well-preserved forest ecosystem with ample shade, and the ridge offers stunning views of nearby settlements and the majestic mountain ranges. Visitors can also explore Xiangtian Lake and the Saisiyat Cultural Museum in Miaoli County, enjoying the scenic lake and mountain reflections while sipping tea by the lakeside and wandering along the trails to learn about Saisiyat culture, making it a favorite destination among hikers. Starting from the trailhead, the path flanks both sides with blooming purple Chinese violet, creating a stunning purple flower sea. The trail weaves through sweet-scented bamboo groves and cedar forests as it gradually ascends. At a junction, the left path leads to Xiangtian Lake Mountain, while the right path heads towards Guangtian Mountain. Both trails connect, forming a loop, so following the trail markers allows one to traverse both Guangtian Mountain and Xiangtian Lake Mountain. Taking the right path towards Guangtian Mountain, there is a high platform on the left ridge, providing a great lookout point over the Xiangtian Lake Tribe, with views of Mount E Guanyin and Lu Ai Liao. The trail is surrounded by dense forest; towering cedars almost touch the sky, and sunlight filters through, prompting visitors to take a moment to appreciate the beauty. Continuing onward past large boulders and climbing uphill, various ferns and flowers thrive beneath the trees. Soon, a flat area appears, where hikers can take a short break, with the Ping Shan界水樁 to the left. Proceeding further, the path reaches the rim of the saddle where one can see lush trees and small paths, following the naturally formed steps created by exposed tree roots. Upon reaching the ridge, one can walk westward until reaching the summit. At the northeast corner of the summit, a fourth-order triangulation point can be found, with tall oak trees rising nearby. While some trees obstruct the view, the northeast cliff offers vistas of Mount E Guanyin, and the western side still showcases the Taiwan Strait. At the summit, one can enjoy a gentle breeze, stretch out, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. 1. Starting point and endpoint: Xiangtian Lake Tribe, near Donghe Village – Guangtian Mountain Triangulation Point (Nanjing Village) 2. Trailhead: Above No. 18 house in Xiangtian Lake Tribe 3. Trail length: 3 kilometers, estimated walking time: approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes one way 4. Trail path: Guangtian Mountain Trailhead → High platform beside the ridge → Large boulder → "Ping Shan界地標臺地" → Guangtian Mountain
