Caoling Old Trail Introduction
The Caoling Historic Trail is a segment of the Daan-Lan Historic Trail developed by the ancestors. The most well-known section runs from Yuanwangkang in Gongliao District, New Taipei City, to Dali in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, covering a mountainous path of 8.5 kilometers. It passes through Caoling, which is located at the border of New Taipei City and Yilan County, and features two important stone monuments that have contributed to the fame of the "Caoling Historic Trail." The path was originally laid using southern road construction techniques and was widened by the Japanese during their occupation, then received attention from various organizations after the restoration. Every year, the Northeast Corner Management Office promotes the silver grass season in autumn, making the trail a popular hiking path among the public. The Caoling Historic Trail is mainly paved with bluestone from Yuanwangkang to Dali Visitor Center. At its highest point, one can enjoy views of Fulong Beach and the Maao area in Gongliao. The weather here is variable, allowing one to see different sceneries within minutes, which is truly breathtaking. The starting point at the Yuanwangkang entrance features a waterside park where visitors can enjoy splashing around, but safety precautions should be taken. After ascending for about ten minutes from the entrance, you will arrive at the Die Shi Ma Bridge. Beyond the bridge, the path steepens and the number of steps gradually increases. After walking along the steps for approximately sixty minutes, you will reach the high ground of Caoling, passing by Xianji Rock, and then you will see the "Xiongzhen Manyan" monument ahead. This segment of the historic trail is adorned with fallen leaves in autumn, enhancing its ancient charm. Walking fifteen more minutes from the "Xiongzhen Manyan" monument, the forest gradually thins, and the main vegetation changes from tall trees to shrubs, leading you to the "Hu Zi Bei" monument. Beyond the "Hu Zi Bei," you will see pampas grass, which grows taller than a person, living up to the name "Caoling." From the Yako View Pavilion, you can see the distant coastline and the Yilan Line railway, as well as Turtle Island across the sea. After passing the Yako View Pavilion, you can either return or continue on a one-hour journey to reach Dali Visitor Service Center, concluding your adventure on the Caoling Historic Trail.
