Kuan-Tian High Mountain Trail Introduction
Guangtian Mountain is located southwest of Xiangtian Lake Village in the Nanjqang Township of Miaoli County, standing at an elevation of 1,123 meters. It was once a hunting and logging area for the Saisiyat people and is now preserved as the No. 32 forest reserve area by the Forestry Bureau's Nanqang Business District. The hiking trail to Guangtian Mountain features a complete forest ecosystem with ample shade and excellent views along the ridge, allowing visitors to enjoy the sight of nearby settlements, undulating peaks, and beautiful scenery. It also allows for visits to Xiangtian Lake and the Saisiyat Folk Museum in Miaoli County, where one can enjoy the stunning reflections in the lake, sip tea by the lakeside, stroll along the lakeside trail, and learn about Saisiyat culture, making it quite popular among hikers. Starting from the trailhead, you will be greeted by blooming purple flower clusters of violet sage, creating a sea of purple on both sides. The path winds through fragrant bamboo forests and cedar trees, gradually ascending. At the fork in the path, taking the left path leads to Xiangtian Lake Mountain, while the right leads to Guangtian Mountain; both trails are interconnected, forming a loop, thus allowing hikers to explore both Guangtian Mountain and Xiangtian Lake Mountain based on trail signs. Taking the right path towards Guangtian Mountain, there is an elevated platform on the left that serves as a great viewpoint to overlook Xiangtian Lake Village, with prominent views of E’gong Peak, Luai Liao, and Xiangtian Lake right below. The trail is densely wooded, with towering cedar trees that seem to reach the sky, and sunlight streams down, inviting hikers to pause and admire the surroundings. Continuing forward, past massive boulders and up a slope, the area becomes rich with various ferns and flowers beneath the trees. Soon, you will reach a flatter terrace suitable for a short rest, with the Ping Shan boundary landmark on the left. Further ahead, the trail leads to the edge of a saddle, where lush forest and paths can be seen; look for natural steps formed by exposed tree roots leading onward. After reaching the ridge, head west until you reach the summit. At the northeast summit, you can find a fourth-class triangulation point, with tall oak trees standing nearby. Although the surrounding trees block some views, the northeastern cliff offers a view of E’gong Peak, while to the west, you can see the Taiwan Strait. At the summit, you can enjoy the gentle breeze, stretch your limbs, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. 1. Starting Point: Xiangtian Lake Village to Guangtian Mountain Triangulation Point (Nanjing Village) 2. Trailhead: Above House No. 18 in Xiangtian Lake Village 3. Trail Length: 3 kilometers, Walking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes one way 4. Trail Path: Guangtian Mountain Trailhead → Elevated Platform by the Ridge → Massive Boulders → "Ping Shan Boundary Landmark Terrace" → Guangtian Mountain
