Dacukeng Old Trail Introduction
The Dacuokeng Old Trail was an early connecting road from Houtong to Dacuokeng and Jiufen. Dacuokeng is a mining settlement with a nearly century-long history of gold mining. In the past, Jiufen was also known as "Little Shanghai," while Dacuokeng was referred to as "Little America." At its peak, it had a population of three thousand and established the Houtong Elementary School Dashing Branch to facilitate the education of Dacuokeng's children. Today, with its prosperity faded, both the school and the settlement have become relics. After several renovations, the Dacuokeng Old Trail is mainly composed of granite stone steps and can be accessed from Houtong Station through Houtong Shrine, the old Houtong Elementary School, the entrance to the Jinzibei Ancient Trail, and the Shengfukeng mine; alternatively, visitors can enter from the Qinxian Junior High School side in Jiufen. It's also possible to drive to the entrance at 19K on Highway 102 and reach the settlement ruins directly via the road bridge ladder, making it very convenient for transportation. Visitors can explore the hometown of famous writer and director Wu Nien-jen and filming locations of movies such as "Father" and "Dust in the Wind." Additionally, the trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains and seascapes of Houtong, Jiufen, and Jinguashi. For those who wish for more, they can continue on the Jinzibei Ancient Trail, return via the Xiaocuokeng Ancient Trail or the Dacuokeng Hillside Ancient Trail, or take the Shumei Viewing Platform to connect with the Diaoshan Ancient Trail to Mudan Station. There are various combinations of routes available, making it a fulfilling experience for hiking, nostalgia for mining towns, enjoying mountain scenery, or seeking tranquility along the ancient trails.
