Datun Mountain Range - Guizikeng Nature Trail Introduction
Located in Beitou, Taipei City, Guizikeng Park is a vast green valley covering an area of over ten hectares. Previously known as "Ghostly Pit" due to excessive kaolin extraction and soil and water imbalance, this former mining site has undergone years of remediation and planning. It has now transformed into a diverse recreational area that combines unique geological landscapes, soil and water conservation education, mountain trails, and free camping grounds. It serves as the starting point of Taipei's first mountain trail and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and get close to nature. The Guizikeng Camping Ground offers free camping sites (subject to application regulations), making it a popular choice for group activities and family outings. The park features two main campsites: "Platform 100" and "Platform 110." "Platform 100" is designated for RVs and includes a semi-circular event plaza. Besides providing a space for local community morning activities during weekdays, it is also an ideal location for groups to hold outdoor activities, picnics, or barbecues. The spacious area is suitable for orienteering, stargazing at night, and even searching for fireflies during specific seasons. The Soil and Water Conservation Education Area in the park houses Taipei City's oldest "Wuzhishan Formation" physical observation area. The exposed rock wall clearly demonstrates the stark contrast between the upper layer (igneous rocks from the eruption of the Datun Volcano Group 800,000 years ago) and the lower layer (folded rock strata formed by mountain-building movements), rich in kaolin and quartz sand. Additionally, the remediated Shuilikeng Creek in the park employs a stepped "waterfall engineering" design to slow down the water flow, reduce erosion, and sediment, serving as an excellent example of soil and water conservation efforts. If the number of viewers for soil and water conservation observations reaches over 20, a volunteer explanation can be requested from the Construction Bureau. The Guizikeng Mountain Trail, planned by the Taipei City Government, is the city's first mountain trail that connects to the Fuxinggang MRT Station, making it very convenient for transport. Once you enter the trail area, the gurgling stream accompanies you along the way, surrounded by lush greenery, as if walking into a dense forest filled with phytoncides. You will pass through the flat "Zhengou Trail" accompanied by flowing water, making your steps feel lighter. Gradually ascending, the ridge trail is quite gentle, and the view becomes increasingly expansive. Don't miss the observation gazebo along the way, which offers the best vantage point to gaze at the lush Guandu Plain nearby, the Tamsui River, Shezi Island, the Beitou landscape, and the culturally rich University of Culture nestled among the mountains—this scenery is truly refreshing and uplifting.
