Datun Mountain Range - Zhongyi Mountain Trail Introduction
Zhongyi Mountain, also known as Xiaobali Fenshan, features stone steps and dense foliage as its main characteristics. A slow climb allows visitors to enjoy the coolness of the forest, making it an excellent venue for aerobic exercise. The Zhongyi Mountain Qingshan Trail is located behind the National Taipei University of the Arts. Along the way, the dense trees provide ample shade, with over 90% of the path being covered, creating a pristine and serene trail. For those wary of sun exposure, this is the best route; however, many sections have stone steps, especially uphill before reaching the summit, requiring good leg strength and stamina. It's advisable to regulate breathing; otherwise, one may end up out of breath. With beautiful views, the Zhongyi Mountain Qingshan Trail is conveniently close to the city, making it a popular spot for local residents to exercise regardless of the time of day. Even on hot weekends, the trail is consistently bustling with people. The way to the summit is primarily uphill steps. Although the distance is not long, the ascent makes breathing rapid, especially on the steep final stretch where it's essential to pace oneself. In the earlier parts, there are opportunities to take breaks at pavilions along the trail near Xing Tian Temple. In the latter part, if a rest is needed, the wider stone-railings before reaching the summit can serve as makeshift benches. Upon spotting the green railings, the summit is just around the corner. At the top, a spacious platform features long benches for resting. If one wishes to invigorate themselves while enjoying a high oxygen level, they can walk along the pebbled path under the shade of trees to awaken their circulation system. This will prepare them better for the steep descent ahead. A hike along the Zhongyi Mountain Trail feels like entering a natural aerobic classroom, allowing cells that are "oxygen-deprived" to rejuvenate, without having to pay membership fees or worry about sudden closures; all it takes is a step up the mountain. Walking along the green trail beside the MRT line towards Xing Tian Temple, breathtaking mountainous scenery unfolds. Before even reaching the trailhead, the lush green hills come into view, bringing a sense of joy that lightens one's step. As one ascends, tall trees—such as pine forests and thorny bamboo—block much of the glaring sunlight, and the lively sounds of chirping insects and birds greet visitors like cheerful hosts. Glimpses of Beitou's cityscape are visible along the way, and reaching the summit grants a better vantage point to overlook Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River. It is said that viewing Guanyin Mountain from Zhongyi Mountain offers the most beautiful perspective, so be sure to take a good look. The summit offers a flat and wide platform, occasionally visited by little egrets, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding reddish soil. After this moment of enlightenment, the trail transitions to a downhill path with a completely different scenery. The forest becomes denser, obscuring views of the outside world and reinforcing a sense of isolation. A sudden shift from the spacious area to the narrow path may leave one wondering if there is still a road ahead or if they have taken a wrong turn. Guided by ropes along the way, a lookout point offers a chance to enjoy views of Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River, providing a balanced perspective of nature's beauty. Upon exiting the forested trail, the view gradually opens up. In the final stretch, the entire Guandu Plain comes into view, with the MRT Beitou Machine Room and distinctive waste incinerator towers appearing clearly in sight, marking a perfect conclusion to the day's adventure.
