Caoling Old Trail Introduction
The Caoling Historic Trail is part of the Dahan Ancient Trail opened by the ancestors. The most well-known section runs through the mountainous path from Yuanwangkeng in Gongliao District, New Taipei City, to Dali in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, covering a total length of 8.5 kilometers. The trail passes through Caoling at the border of New Taipei City and Yilan County, featuring two important stone monuments along the way, which have helped make this "Caoling Historic Trail" famous. The trail was originally paved using southern road construction techniques and was widened by the Japanese and later received attention from various agencies after Taiwan's retrocession. Each autumn, the Northeast Coast National Scenic Area Administration promotes the Miscanthus season, making the ancient trail a popular hiking route among the public. The Caoling Historic Trail is primarily paved with bluestone from Yuanwangkeng to the Dali Visitor Center. At the highest point of the trail, one can overlook Fulong Beach and Gongliao Maao; this area is known for its ever-changing weather, allowing visitors to experience different sceneries within minutes. The starting point at Yuanwangkeng features a riverside park where the public can enjoy water activities, but safety precautions are advised. After a ten-minute uphill walk from the entrance, one arrives at the Die Si Ma Bridge. After crossing the bridge, the trail becomes steeper, and the number of steps increases. Walking along the steps for about sixty minutes leads to the elevated area of Caoling, passing by Xianjiyan before encountering the "Xiongzhen Manyan" monument. In autumn, the trail is covered with fallen leaves, enhancing its ancient charm. Continuing fifteen minutes from the "Xiongzhen Manyan" monument, the forest gradually disappears, with the main vegetation shifting from trees to shrubs, leading to the "Huzibi" monument. After passing the "Huzibi" monument, one sees tall Miscanthus all around, justifying the name "Caoling." From the Yabkout Scenic Pavilion, one can enjoy views of the distant coastline and the Yilan Line railway, as well as Turtle Island visible across the sea. After the Yabkout Scenic Pavilion, one can either turn back or continue for about an hour to reach the Dali Visitor Service Center, concluding the journey on the Caoling Historic Trail.
