Dali Daitong Path: Hiking Trail to the Secret Realm Introduction
The entrance to the Dali-Da Synchro Trail is located directly across from the Taroko Plateau Visitor Center. From the mountain base, one can spot the abandoned aerial lift hanging on the mountain top, telling the history and life wisdom of the Truku people who once lived here. Dali Village is situated at an elevation of 915 meters, and was formerly known as "Xoxos," meaning "the place with many snakes" in Truku language. The Dali Church serves as the village's center of faith, although it is no longer in use due to population migration, the church building is well preserved. The trail spans approximately 9.5 kilometers and can be divided into three sections: the 1.3-kilometer Dekarun Trail, which leads from the end of Dekarun Trail to Dali Village for about 2.3 kilometers, and from Dali Village to Datong Village, about 6.2 kilometers. A day trip can be arranged to Dali Village, with a round trip taking around 7 hours; visiting Datong Village requires two days. The trail is suitable for those with decent physical fitness, and it is recommended to plan ahead and bring enough drinking water and dry food. The Dekarun Trail features steep wooden stairs and is the first section of the Dali-Da Synchro Trail, stretching about 1.3 kilometers and named after the Dekarun Village, which means "maple fragrance." Lush and vigorous forests surround the wooden staircase, challenging the visitors' endurance and agility right from the start with its steep ascent. Handrails are installed along the steps for support, and several rest areas and informational signs are set up at scenic spots. Those who find it physically demanding may rest and enjoy the view of Fushih Village and Xincheng Mountain across the way, where the Litiwu River meanders into the Pacific Ocean, offering a broad view that refreshes with the cool breezes from the coastal area, cooling down the sweat from the climb and providing a respite from worldly concerns. Dali Village is a secluded paradise. After the Dekarun Trail to Dali Village, there is approximately 2.3 kilometers of dirt path and stone steps, climbing to about 900 meters above sea level. The original mountain path is not overgrown, but in places with significant elevation changes, one may need to use both hands and feet to ascend. The exposed stones or steps along the trail present the unique marble texture found in Hualien. At the mountain peak, it connects to the starting point of the Shakadang Forest Road, which was also the starting point for the cableway. In the past, this forest road and cableway were crucial routes for transporting timber. As a result, rusted machinery can still be seen along the road, narrating the history of the thriving timber industry. Continuing along the Shakadang Forest Road for another 6.2 kilometers will lead to Datong Village, or one can walk into the beautiful Dali Village along the paths flanked by plants such as bamboo and Castanopsis, surrounded by misty mountain scenery. Formerly known as "Xoxos," Dali Village signifies "yellow mulberry," consisting of a few remaining houses along the gently sloping village where fruit trees are still cultivated. Occasionally, one can see the aerial lift facilities used for transporting supplies for villagers, alongside the now-abandoned police station and church, which highlight the tranquil and idyllic beauty of this place, resembling an isolated utopia. The old name of "Datong Village" was "Skadang," which means "molar," situated at an elevation of 1,128 meters. During the Japanese occupation, there was a stationed location and education establishment for indigenous children, making it a must-pass location to get to Qingshui Mountain.
Dahli Great Syncope Trail: Hiking Path to the Secret Realm 2
Dali Great Synchronization Trail: The Hiking Path to the Secret Realm
