Liuliaog Trail Introduction
The Xiliu Ancient Trail, located in the Lion Head Mountain Scenic Area within Emei Township, Hsinchu County, features the scenic spots of "Gorge Potholes," "Seven Stars Sacred Tree Forest," and "Romantic Tung Flower Trail." This serene pathway combines natural beauty with cultural history. Historically, this ancient path was one of the "Thirty-six Outposts" set up by the Jin Guangfu Plantation to resist indigenous people, numbered as the sixth outpost, hence its name. With the passage of time, it has transformed into a hiking trail filled with primitive landscapes and woodland atmosphere. The trail starts beside the Shishan Visitor Center, with the first section being a gentle asphalt industrial road, suitable for warming up, while the later section gradually leads into the mountain path, winding along the Xiliu Creek, accompanied by the gentle sound of flowing water. The path consists of natural stone and showcases traces of former Hakka settlements and abandoned coal mines, evoking the atmosphere of exploring memories of old mountain villages. The most eye-catching feature is the unique pothole formations in the gorge, along with the "Seven Stars Sacred Tree," composed of a 400-year-old mother camphor and a 100-year-old son camphor. This sacred tree, which extends seven robust branches from the same root, is not only a magnificent wonder but also a tree historically worshiped by ancestors, rich in cultural faith. Continuing past the Xiliu settlement, the trail transitions into a narrow forest path that retains the ancient trail's original appearance, representing the essence of the entire journey. Along the route, the lush greenery flourishes, and during the blooming season of tung flowers from April to May, the white flowers cover the pathway like snow, creating a picturesque and romantic scene. Eventually, you will reach the Qixing Pavilion, and then return via the Shishan Ancient Trail, completing a circular journey through the mountains and forests. The Xiliu Ancient Trail is an ideal nature trail for families seeking easy hikes, offering close encounters with rich ecology and geological wonders while immersing in the history and cultural beliefs of the Hakka community. It is suitable for visits year-round, with late spring to early summer being the best time to enjoy the flowers and scenery. Notably, the Xiliu Ancient Trail is also one of the designated trails for the "2025 Matsu Forest Adventure—Pipi Lion Expedition Team"! Follow in the footsteps of Pipi Lion and explore the magical charm of potholes and sacred trees! ------ Xiliu Ancient Trail ------ Trail Length: 3.6 kilometers Trail Difficulty: Low Estimated Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
