Datun Mountain Range - Chongyi Mountain Trail Introduction
Zhongyi Mountain, also known as Xiaobali Fen Mountain, is characterized by stone steps and dense greenery, making it an excellent location for aerobic exercise while enjoying the coolness of the forest during a leisurely hike. The Zhongyi Mountain Trail is located on the backside of National Taipei University of the Arts, featuring a path surrounded by dense trees with over 90% shade coverage, offering a peaceful hiking experience. For hikers afraid of the sun, this is the best route; however, there are many stone steps along the way, especially uphill before reaching the summit, requiring good stamina and strength. Breathing rhythm must be adjusted accordingly, or else one might end up breathing heavily. The Zhongyi Mountain Trail is close to the city center, making it a popular training ground for local residents throughout the day, regardless of the hour. Even on hot sunny days, crowds continue to flow up and down the trail during weekends. Although the route is not long, the stone steps increase the breathing effort, especially on the steep ascent towards the end where good breathing control is essential. Before reaching the peak, there are side paths leading to a pavilion in the back garden of Xingtian Temple, perfect for a short rest. Near the marker before the summit, the wider stone railings can be used as makeshift benches. When green railings appear, the summit is just around the corner. At the top, there’s a spacious platform with a long row of benches for resting. If one wishes to invigorate tired cells while enjoying the abundant oxygen, they can step onto the pebble path under the shade, stimulating their circulatory system. With that done, tackling the steep trails will become easier. Walking the Zhongyi Mountain Trail feels like stepping into a natural aerobic classroom, revitalizing the oxygen-deprived cells without membership fees or worries about sudden closures. Just take that first step up the mountain. As you walk along the green trails by the MRT tracks towards Xingtian Temple, you are greeted with stunning mountain scenery. Even before reaching the trailhead, the lush green mountains come into view, inspiring joy and lightening your steps. As you ascend, tall trees like pines and thorny bamboos block much of the glaring sunlight, while the sounds of insects and birds chirping welcome visitors with vibrant energy. On the way, glimpses of Beitou and from the summit a better view that includes Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River unfolds. It is said that Guanyin Mountain from Zhongyi Mountain offers the most beautiful view, so be sure to take a good look. The flat expanse at the summit is sometimes graced by egrets resting against a backdrop of the barren red earth. Turning to the downhill section reveals a completely different landscape. The green shade of the forest becomes denser, obscuring views outside, creating a sense of seclusion. The transition from the spacious area to a narrow path can seem puzzling, leading one to wonder if the trail continues or if they have strayed. Guided by auxiliary ropes, hikers will arrive at a good viewpoint. Resting on rocky outcrops allows for an enjoyable view of Guanyin Mountain and the Tamsui River, perfectly capturing the enchanting mountain and water scenery ahead. Exiting the shaded path, the views gradually open up. The final stretch offers a view of the entire Guandu Plain, with the Beitou MRT depot and the striking incineration tower clearly visible, elegantly closing the day’s journey.
