Datun Mountain Range - Chung Cheng Mountain Trail Introduction
Zhongzheng Mountain, originally named Mitoushan, is also known as Shibafen Mountain or Daganglin Mountain; it was later renamed Zhongzheng Mountain. There are as many as seven trailheads for Zhongzheng Mountain, resulting in a wealth of interconnected trails, mostly arranged in a radial pattern. The summit stands alone, offering excellent panoramic views, making it quite special. The Zhongzheng Mountain Trail, which begins at the trailhead, features steep stone steps leading almost directly to the summit. Hikers must prepare physically and mentally, particularly ensuring their cardiovascular function is well utilized along the trail. Although the uphill sections are physically demanding, hikers can enjoy views of Beitou District and the Keelung River along the way, making this trail quite appealing to many hikers. Reaching the observation pavilion at the summit provides astonishing views, revealing the usually distant Qixing Mountain and Shamao Mountain "up close," with distinctly layered mountain ridges that are rarely seen and truly beautiful. The Zhongzheng Mountain Trail, part of Yangmingshan National Park, occasionally allows walkers to see clusters of butterflies fluttering. Surveys have reported over a hundred species of butterflies in this area, with nearly a quarter of Taiwan's butterflies found here, meaning butterfly larvae—caterpillars—are often visible on the ground or in trees, which is both rare and interesting. During blooming season, the golden flowers of the Acacia tree are commonly seen at the saddle of Zhongzheng Mountain, joined by other blooms like azaleas and cherry blossoms. When standing in Beitou District looking outward, or gazing from Longfeng Valley towards the opposite valley, the meticulously trimmed trees revealing the characters "Zhongzheng" are clearly visible. Zhongzheng Mountain is named for the presence of Fayu Temple and Daci Temple on its slopes. Originally named Mitoushan, it was also called Shibafen Mountain or Daganglin Mountain before being renamed in honor of former President Chiang Kai-shek. Hearing the name "Zhongzheng" inevitably evokes a sense of respect; in fact, the path from the trailhead is predominantly steep stone steps leading directly up Zhongzheng Mountain, so it's important to mentally prepare and stride confidently up the mountain. Because of this, it is also a great place for training physical strength and stamina for high-altitude challenges. The uphill path inevitably consumes some energy, but there are rest pavilions along the way where less active individuals can take breaks and enjoy views of Beitou District before reaching the summit. Along the route, there are good vantage points beside the railings or in front of the old Dizang Wang Temple to overlook Beitou District and the Keelung River. With a bit more effort, one can reach the observation pavilion’s benches for a good rest. While the mountaintop isn't spacious, ascending the specially designed observation pavilion is exhilarating and often leads to exclamations of delight. Setting aside the cool mountain breeze, the surrounding views are expansive. What was typically seen from afar—Qixing Mountain and Shamao Mountain—can now be observed in detail, with the renowned scenic area of Longfeng Valley situated at the mountain's foothills, and further in the distance, the Keelung River meandering towards the Tamsui River mouth, with Guanyin Mountain standing majestically alongside the river, presenting a striking landscape. On the way back, visitors can enjoy "closer" views of the MRT Beitou airport, the colorful Beitou incineration plant tower, the lush Guandu Plain, and Guanyin Mountain across the Tamsui River. If the trail hasn't satisfied your desire for scenery, it's recommended to traverse a portion of the downhill path via the bamboo trail and then walk along a section of the industrial road, combining roads and trails for a more intimate experience with the beauty around you, adding interest and variety to this journey. Despite the bamboo groves and farmland along the trail, in the warm blooming season, whether near the uphill Dizang Wang Temple or downhill sections, the golden flowers of the Acacia tree cascade down like a soft carpet for forest visitors. Even though the flowering season in Yangmingshan has passed, the combination of golden Acacia blossoms and green bamboo presents a unique beauty. Since Zhongzheng Mountain falls within Yangmingshan National Park, encountering fluttering butterflies is not surprising. There are over a hundred species of butterflies here, with a quarter of Taiwan's butterfly species frequenting this area, making it easy to spot caterpillars on the ground or in the air. Along the way, one might see caterpillars hanging leisurely in the air, which is quite entertaining. Here, not only is the vitality of caterpillars striking, but if one stops to observe closely, even the ants and reptiles on the ground appear particularly robust. On clear days, when views open up, one may even catch a glimpse of the Crested Serpent Eagle, the Black-naped Oriole, the White-headed Bulbul, or the Spectacled Barwing. Otherwise, the sounds of birds chirping often fill the air, ensuring that even solo hikers never feel lonely. During summer, the natural symphony along the trail includes familiar cicada sounds alongside the low melodies of crickets and grasshoppers. In winter and early spring, the Taipei Tree Frog takes on the night shift, its long and deep croaks representing the primal calls of male frogs eager to attract mates, adding a different melody to the mountain.
