Datun Mountain Range - Guizikeng Trail Introduction
The Guizikeng Park, located in the Daoxiangli area of Beitou, covers approximately 10,000 ping and was originally a ceramic clay mine. Later, due to the development of the hillside into a recreational area, it attracted a large number of visitors. The first mountain-friendly trail planned by the city government connects the Guizikeng Mountain Trail to the Fuxinggang Station of the MRT, which also includes the MRT Green Corridor trail leading directly to Guizikeng Park. Guizikeng Campground features unique geological landscapes and the ancient strata of the Wuzhishan Formation. In the early days, excessive mining led to soil and water imbalance, which is why it was originally referred to as "Guizikeng" (鬼子坑). After renovation and planning, Guizikeng now has a campground, a soil and water conservation educational area, and a circular mountain trail, making it an excellent outdoor geological classroom. The Guizikeng campground is free to use and has two camping sites: "Platform 100" and "Platform 110," with "Platform 100" being the only "car camping site" that features a semi-arc top pavilion activity square. On weekdays, it not only serves as a morning activity spot for community residents but also as a venue for outdoor activities for civic groups. The Guizikeng Soil and Water Conservation Educational Area features the oldest strata in Taipei, namely the Wuzhishan Formation observation area. The exposed rock walls contain rich deposits of ceramic clay and quartz sand. The upper layer consists of igneous rocks from 800,000 years ago, erupted by the Datun Volcano Group, while the lower layer is composed of folded sedimentary strata formed under tectonic forces. This geological landscape is quite unique and rare. Through a bare rock wall beside the pond, one can observe the transformed Shuimokeng Creek, which has been divided into layers of water steps as part of a sediment control project, aimed at reducing the force of water flow and minimizing soil erosion. Adjacent to the park is a forest bathing boardwalk that allows you to explore the ancient strata of the Wuzhishan Formation and areas treated with planted trees and retaining walls. If the number of observers for soil and water conservation reaches 20 or more, volunteers can be applied for explanations from the Construction Bureau. In Taipei, opportunities to see streams are rare, especially to witness the confluence of two streams. Along the way to the mountain trail entrance, the stream accompanies you, and as you enter the trail area, verdant greenery surrounds you. As you ascend, the stream turns into the valley, where dense forest creates an atmosphere of forest bathing, akin to walking through a lush forest filled with phytoncide-laden air. Crossing a wooden bridge resembling a pine tree, and momentarily saying goodbye to Guizikeng Creek, one follows the stone steps to the Zhenjiao Trail. The flat trail is accompanied by flowing water, and your steps become lighter. Not long after, you can see Shezi Island surrounded by the Keelung River, the Beitou Machine Room, and the landscape of Beitou in the distance. Especially noteworthy is the clear view of the waterway traversing the Guandu Plain, resembling a special spectacle that divides this green land in two. Walking along the ridge, the path is gentle, flanked by flowerbeds and vegetable gardens, and the views widen as you stroll, reminiscent of wandering through a high plateau. Just before descending, you come to a scenic pavilion overlooking the surroundings, with the lush Guandu Plain, exposed white soil hills, and the sprawling Datun Volcano Group nearby. In the distance, the cultural university nestled in the mountains adds to the scenery. After pausing, you descend along the stone steps into another stretch of shaded forest path. If you finish hiking the mountain trail, be sure to detour to the educational area to see the oldest strata in Taipei. If you wish to get closer, you can ascend the wooden walkway for detailed observation. Alternatively, the garden viewing area’s pond, greenery, and pavilion are also delightful spots for a break. Longing for the beautiful view you just admired? The park’s viewing platform is a great lookout point, allowing you to survey the entire park, as well as the Tamsui River, the Guandu Plain, and areas like Sanchong, Luzhou, and even Guanyin Mountain. If you fall in love with this place and wish to stay longer or visit again, the spacious recreational camping area welcomes group reservations. When utilizing the entire area, the capacity for participating visitors can exceed 2,000. Among them, "Platform 110" is still the only "car camping site" in Taipei. Therefore, it’s suitable for groups to picnic, camp, or barbecue, as well as for outdoor recreational activities like hiking and orienteering. At night, activities such as stargazing and searching for fireflies can also take place, as there are five hectares of area to explore. If that's not enough, you can head to Yangmingshan National Park!
