Yuan Mountain Trail Introduction
Yuan Mountain is located adjacent to the west side of Sanxia Old Street. The mountain is named because it resembles a soaring raptor. Yuan Mountain faces the Yingge Rock across the Dahan River, and when traveling on National Highway No. 3, the two mountain peaks on either side act as gateposts into New Taipei City. According to local legend, the army of Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga) encountered two monstrous birds here. Zheng Chenggong ordered his troops to attack them with a large dragon cannon. After the two birds were shot down, they transformed into the present-day Yingge Rock and Yuan Mountain. Yuan Mountain stands majestically to the south of the Dahan River alluvial plain, offering excellent views, making it a popular hiking spot in Sanxia. On the top of Yuan Mountain, there is a restored bronze bell built in 1985 known as the Bell of Peace, which was initiated by the then Sanxia township head Zhang Xiufeng and local residents to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession. This bell was the largest bronze bell in the country at that time and symbolizes the noble ideal of humanity's pursuit of peace, carrying significant historical meaning. The Yuan Mountain Trail is moderately challenging and suitable for all ages. Along the way, there are several small yet beautiful attractions such as the Changchun Garden Firefly Trail and Yuan Mountain Colorful Wall. The trail is lined with oil seed trees, making it an excellent place for hiking and exploration. With an elevation of 291 meters, Yuan Mountain serves as a garden for the residents of Sanxia, featuring pavilions, benches, and lush greenery where people can rest and exercise. On weekends, it attracts many visitors. Arriving at Yuan Mountain at dusk allows for a panoramic view of the Dahan River alluvial plain, where one can admire the lights of thousands of homes in the Sanxia, Yingge, and Bade areas. At night, the lights of National Highway No. 3 twinkle like stars on the ground, creating a stunning display. On clear nights, one can even see the skyline of Taipei City from dozens of kilometers away, becoming increasingly beautiful as night falls.
