Dulan Mountain Trail Introduction
To reach Dulan from Provincial Highway 11, you will pass through Shuiwangshangliu, Xinlan, and Beijun boundary. Between Junjie and Beijun boundary, turn into the Yuye Industrial Road to connect to the Dulan Mountain Trail. Dulan Mountain is regarded as a sacred mountain by the local Amis and Puyuma tribes, representing a holy symbol and a place for worship. Though Dulan Mountain has an elevation of only 1,190 meters, its shape is prominent and steep, and under the influence of the moist air from the Pacific Ocean to the east, it creates a mysterious atmosphere of clouds and mist all year round, resembling a beauty being embraced and protected, hence the nickname "Beautiful Mountain." At the trailhead of Dulan Mountain is the Dulan Forest Station. Once you reach the summit, you will have a panoramic view of the Taiyuan Basin, the southern Taitung Valley, and the Taitung Plain; to the east, the Pacific Ocean, Green Island, and Orchid Island are clearly visible, making it a great spot for hiking and sightseeing. The forest at Dulan Mountain is rich in diversity, where you can see many tall and straight Pencil Pines, smooth-barked Alishan Cypress, Snake Trees, Golden Chinese Orchids, Bamboo Orchids, and many other plants commonly used by the local indigenous peoples, such as the sour fruit used by the Amis for wrapping sticky rice. As the trail continues to ascend, the forest vegetation of Dulan Mountain changes with altitude. Due to the humid environment, many vines intertwine in the forest, reminiscent of scenes from the movie "Tarzan." Before reaching the summit, you will pass a "Puyuma" altar, which marks the boundary between the Amis and Puyuma territories. The Amis inhabit the coastal side, while the Puyuma reside on the mountain side, with mutual respect for each other's land. Tribal members still visit this stone tablet for worship, praying to their ancestors or expressing gratitude. Due to the prevalent clouds and mist, Dulan Mountain often experiences rain in the afternoon, making the paths slippery. Visitors planning to hike should remember to prepare rain gear and walking sticks.
