Caoling Old Trail Introduction
The Caoling Historic Trail is a section of the ancient Daan-Lan Trail developed by early settlers. The most well-known route runs from Yuanwangkeng in Gongliao District, New Taipei City, to Dali in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, spanning a length of 8.5 kilometers through the mountainous area. This trail passes through Caoling, located at the boundary between New Taipei City and Yilan County, and features two significant stone monuments that give the "Caoling Historic Trail" its fame. The trail was originally built using Southern road construction techniques and has been widened by the Japanese during their rule, receiving attention from various agencies after the restoration of Taiwan. Every autumn, the Northeast Coast National Scenic Area Administration promotes the silver grass season, making the ancient path a popular hiking route. The trail is paved with flagstones leading from Yuanwangkeng to the Dali Visitor Center. At its highest point, hikers can enjoy views of Fulong Beach and Maao in Gongliao; this area is known for its rapidly changing weather, allowing guests to witness different sceneries within minutes, which is truly breathtaking. The starting point at Yuanwangkeng features a water park where visitors can play in the water, but safety precautions should be taken. After a ten-minute ascent from the entrance, hikers reach the Diedima Bridge. Beyond the bridge, the trail becomes steeper with increasing stairs. Walking for about sixty minutes along the stairs leads to the high ground of Caoling, where you pass Xiangji Rock, and soon come upon the "Xiong Zhen Man Yan" monument. In autumn, this section of the trail is covered in fallen leaves, enhancing its ancient charm. Continuing forward for fifteen minutes from the "Xiong Zhen Man Yan" monument, the forest begins to give way to shrubs, revealing the "Tiger Character Monument." Beyond the "Tiger Character Monument," views open up to tall miscanthus grass, embodying the name "Caoling." From the viewing pavilion at the saddle, you can see the distant coastline and the Yilan Line railway, as well as Turtle Island across the sea. After passing the saddle viewing pavilion, hikers can either turn back or continue along the trail for about an hour to reach the Dali Visitor Center, marking the end of their journey on the Caoling Historic Trail.
