Datun Mountain Range - Guizikeng Trail Introduction
The Guizikeng Park, located in Beitou's Daoxiangli, covers an area of approximately 10,000 ping. It was originally a clay mining site, but later developed into a recreational area, attracting crowds. The city's first mountain accessible trail, Guizikeng Mountain Trail, connects to the MRT Fuxinggang Station, which also includes a green corridor leading directly to Guizikeng Park. The Guizikeng Camping Area is set in a small valley with unique geological features and ancient strata from the Wuzhi Mountain formation. Due to excessive mining in the early days, it was called "Guizi Pit." After rectification, the Guizikeng area now offers a campsite, a soil and water conservation educational park, and a mountain loop trail, making it an excellent outdoor geological classroom. The Guizikeng campground is free to use, with two camping sites: "Platform 100" and "Platform 110." The "Platform 100" campsite is the only "car camping site" with a semi-circular pavilion, which not only serves morning activities for community residents on weekdays but also doubles as a venue for outdoor activities for civic groups. The Soil and Water Conservation Educational Park in Guizikeng features the oldest strata in Taipei, the Wuzhi Mountain Stratum observation area, where exposed rock walls contain rich clay minerals and quartz sand. The upper layer consists of igneous rock erupted from the Datun Volcano Group 800,000 years ago, while the lower layer is folded strata formed through mountain-building activities. This unique geological landscape is rare. Through an exposed rock wall by the pond, one can glimpse the terraced water steps in the rehabilitated Shuiliankeng Creek, which is part of the soil and water conservation project known as "drop waterfall engineering." This aims to reduce the impact of water flow and decrease gravitational erosion on the creek bed, allowing sediment in the water to settle and reduce sediment accumulation downstream. Next to the park is a forest bath wooden plank path that takes you to observe the ancient strata of the Wuzhi Mountain formation and other treatment areas. If there are more than 20 people interested in soil and water conservation observation, they can apply for a guided explanation from the Construction Bureau. The beautiful mountains and waters are not distant; we merely forgot to get close to them. In Taipei, opportunities to see streams are rare, let alone witness the convergence of two streams. On the way to the trailhead, the stream flows alongside, and upon entering the trail area, greenery abounds. As you ascend, the stream shifts into the valley, and dense forests create an atmospheric forest bathing experience, akin to walking in a lush forest infused with phytoncides. Crossing a wooden bridge mimicking pine wood, you temporarily part ways with Guizikeng Creek and follow stone steps to the Zhingou Trail. The flat water path accompanies you, lifting your spirits as you walk. Not long after, you can see Shezi Island, surrounded by the Keelung River, and the MRT Beitou Machine Room along with its landscape. Particularly unique is the view of water channels dividing the Guandu Plain, creating a striking visual contrast that draws admiration. Walking along the ridge is a gentle trail, with flower beds and vegetable gardens on either side, and the view gradually opens up, feeling like a stroll in the highlands. Before descending, you reach an observation pavilion overlooking the surroundings, where the lush Guandu Plain, exposed white hills, and the majestic Datun Volcano Group can be observed, with Cultural University nestled in the mountains in the distance. After taking in the views, you follow the stone steps down another shaded forest path. As for the history here, all that you see is the beauty of mountains and waters, and if it weren't for the soil and water conservation educational park's landmark "Wuzhi Mountain Stratum," which is nearly barren, you might find it hard to imagine that this valley, originally called "Guizikeng," has its own storied past. After completing the mountain loop trail, be sure to explore the educational park to see Taipei's oldest strata. If you wish to get a closer look, you can ascend the wooden path for detailed observation. Otherwise, the garden observation area with its pond, greenery, and pavilion is also a nice spot for a break. Longing for the breathtaking views? The observation deck in the park also serves as a great vantage point, where you can enjoy the entire landscape of the park, as well as the Tamsui River, Guandu Plain, and the sights of Sanchong, Luzhou, and Guanyin Mountain nearby. If you fall in love with this place and wish to stay longer or revisit, the spacious recreational camping area welcomes groups to make reservations. When using the entire area, the capacity for participating visitors can exceed 2,000 people. Among them, "Platform 110" camping site is Taipei's only "car camping site." Therefore, it’s perfect for group picnics, camping, barbecues, and various outdoor recreational activities. Night activities allow for stargazing and searching for fireflies, as the area spans five hectares, offering endless possibilities for play and exploration. If that's not enough, head over to Yangmingshan National Park!
