Emperor Temple Hiking Trail Introduction
The Emperor Palace Mountain Trail is located in the Shiding District of New Taipei City. It is a ridge extending northward from the Xueshan Mountain Range, famous for the rocky ridge trail between its East Peak and West Peak. The name comes from the Tianwang Temple located beneath the ridge, and "Emperor Palace" is an alternative name for the temple. The term "Emperor Palace Mountain" generally refers to the narrow rocky ridge stretching from the East Peak to the West Peak, which is so narrow at the top that it can only accommodate one person at a time, resembling a knife or axe cut. One side features a nearly vertical cliff, while the other side slopes parallel to the ground. Most people walking along this trail tend to slow down, with some even crawling forward, leading enthusiasts to describe it as "ants crossing the threshold." Certain steeper sections are equipped with iron chains, ropes, and railings for safety, yet it remains a thrilling and popular trekking route. The geological features of the mountainous area are of a juvenile phase, characterized by spectacular landscapes such as cliffs and deep ravines. Among them, the Yongding Shiba cliff rises sharply above Shiding, with a straight-line distance of 4 kilometers, making it a rare rock formation. The East Peak stands at an elevation of 593 meters, the West Peak at 560 meters, and Tianwang Peak (Middle Peak) at 562 meters. Tianwang Peak is situated exactly in the middle of the ridge, and a yellow flag inscribed with "Tianwang Temple" is planted at its summit. Although the mountains in this area are not very tall, they offer excellent northern vistas, and on clear days, one can view Sifunzaiwei Mountain to the north and the Qixing Mountain and Huanzui Mountain further northwest.
