Datun Mountain Range - Zhongzheng Mountain Trail Introduction
Zhongzheng Mountain, originally known as Mitou Mountain, is also called Shijufen Mountain or Daganglin Mountain. It was later renamed Zhongzheng Mountain to commemorate former President Chiang Kai-shek. There are as many as seven trailheads to Zhongzheng Mountain, connected by numerous winding paths that radiate outward. The summit stands independently, offering a first-rate panoramic view that is quite unique. The Zhongzheng Mountain Trail begins at the hiking entrance, gradually ascending almost vertically with stone steps to the summit. Hikers need to be well-prepared in terms of stamina and leg strength, especially cardiovascular fitness, as it plays a crucial role during the trek. Despite the physical exertion required for the uphill sections, hikers can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Beitou district and the Keelung River along the way, making this trail quite attractive to many mountain enthusiasts. Reaching the scenic viewing platform at the top offers amazing vistas; sights like Qixing Mountain and Shamaoshan, which are not easily visible on ordinary days, become vividly clear juxtaposed against the distinctive ridgelines. The trail is part of Yangmingshan National Park, where hikers can often see groups of butterflies fluttering about. It has been surveyed that over a hundred species of butterflies inhabit this area, with roughly a quarter of Taiwan's butterfly species appearing here, making it a fascinating site where caterpillars—often seen on the ground or treetops—can be observed. During the flowering season, the golden blossoms of acacia trees can frequently be seen at the mountain pass, along with other flowers like azaleas and cherry blossoms. Standing in Beitou overlooking the area, or looking up from Longfeng Valley, the characters “Zhongzheng” can clearly be seen, sculpted from the trees. Given that the mountain hosts Fayu Temple and Daci Temple and was originally named Mitou Mountain, it was later renamed Zhongzheng Mountain in honor of President Chiang, which brings a sense of respect to the term "Zhongzheng." From the trailhead, the journey consists mostly of steep stone steps, thus requiring hikers to mentally prepare and maintain good posture while climbing. This location serves as an excellent place for individuals looking to challenge their endurance before embarking on high-altitude climbing. While it's inevitable that the uphill trek will demand physical effort, those who are not used to exercising can take breaks at the resting pavilions along the route to enjoy the views of Beitou city. While ascending, hikers can stop at spots near railing or in front of the old Ksitigarbha Temple to appreciate the sights of Beitou and the Keelung River. If you push harder towards the summit, you’ll reach the designated viewing platform where you can take a pleasurable break. The summit isn’t very spacious, but upon arriving at the specially built viewing pavilion, you can revel in the captivating views. The refreshing mountain breeze aside, you can enjoy the previously remote views of Qixing Mountain and Shamaoshan, with known tourist attractions like Longfeng Valley right at the foot of the mountain, while further down you can observe the winding Keelung River flowing towards the Tamsui River estuary, framed by the impressive Guanyin Mountain. On the return trip, you can admire the Beitou airport station, the colorful Beitou incinerator tower, the sprawling Guandu Plain, and Guanyin Mountain across the Tamsui River. If the trail hasn't satisfied your appetite for views, consider mixing your return path between bamboo forest trails and industrial roads for a closer experience with the splendid scenery, adding variety and interest to your journey. Despite the trail being flanked mostly by bamboo forests and farms, during the warm spring season, golden acacia flowers adorn the pathways, creating a soft carpet for visitors through the mountains. Although the flower season in Yangmingshan has passed, the combination of golden acacia and green bamboo offers its own unique charm. Given that Zhongzheng Mountain is within the remit of Yangmingshan National Park, it is no surprise to spot butterflies fluttering around. More than a hundred butterfly species reside here, and one can easily see caterpillars along the ground or mid-air. Along the path, it’s common to see these caterpillars lazily suspended in the air, which is quite intriguing. Not only are the caterpillars vibrant, but if you stop and look closely, even the ants and reptiles on the ground appear robust. On clear days, you may catch sights of the crested serpent eagle, the black-throated tit, or the five-colored bird, while the chorus of bird songs fills the air, making solitary hiking feel anything but lonely. In summer, the natural symphony includes familiar cicada calls along with the chorus of crickets and grasshoppers. During winter and early spring, the Taipei tree frog takes the evening shift, their deep, resonant croaks are the male frogs' primal calls, signaling their desire to mate and creating another chapter in the mountain’s varied soundscape.
