Qixing Mountain Range - Tianmu Ancient Trail Introduction
Tianmu Ancient Trail runs through the northwestern hillside of the Shilin Huagang area, specifically at the saddle south of Shamao Mountain. It is part of the latter section of the historic Yulu Ancient Trail, covering several paths between Huagang and Tianmu along the large water pipeline. The gentle stream and primitive forest along the way create a refreshing and comfortable walking experience. The trail can also connect to the "Cui Feng Trail," which leads to Cui Feng Waterfall and the Monkey Cave Industrial Road, situated in the lush shade of the mountains, making it especially refreshing. The Tianmu Ancient Trail was an important route connecting Jinshan and Tianmu; however, since the opening of Yangde Boulevard, this early pathway has officially transformed into an ancient trail, becoming a popular hiking route in recent years, attracting crowds of visitors on weekends. The ecological landscape of Tianmu Ancient Trail ranges in altitude from about 300 to 120 meters, belonging to Taiwan’s low-altitude subtropical broadleaf forest ecosystem. The northeast monsoon blowing from the Dajhunan Mountain saddle brings strong winds, rain, and low temperatures, resulting in a warm temperate broadleaf forest landscape on the windward side of the trail; conversely, the sheltered valley areas are conducive to the growth of tropical broadleaf species, such as tropical buttressed roots, terrestrial flowers, and lianas. Despite its altitude of only 300 meters, Tianmu Ancient Trail boasts a compressed ecological system containing tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate broadleaf forests, making it a rare and precious environment. ◎Special Reminder for Hikers: Near the branch trail leading down to Cui Feng Waterfall, monkey groups can often be spotted. Please do not feed the monkeys when you see them, as competition for food may lead to unintentional harm! Water Pipeline Trail has been a critical water source area in the conservation forest since the Japanese colonial period, showcasing rich and primitive vegetation along the way, including abundant ferns and taro plants. The water pipeline was constructed to channel spring water from the third water source to the Tianmu and Shilin areas. In the initial steep sections of the trail, the large water pipes are no longer visible, as they are covered beneath the trail in later sections. Between the 1930s, stone slabs and cement were gradually laid over the pipes for protection, forming the water pipeline trail, which diverged from the path as the terrain flattened in the Tianmu area. The start point of the trail at the Sanjiao Pu Power Plant marks the entrance, which is also the endpoint of the water pipeline. Before entering the forest, there is a warming-up period where hikers must conquer thousands of stone steps. Along the way, tea and hot soup are generously offered for free tasting. Just as you feel warm, sun hats will appear. If you get thirsty, fresh juice, tea, and sweet potato soup await you in the forest. Strangely, before reaching Yangmingshan, local vegetables, bamboo shoots, and sweet potatoes are lined up. The mention of over a thousand steps serves as a "warm-up" before entering the mountainous area. The first sight to greet you is a longan tree forest, with towering longan trees flanking the stone steps—some trunks so thick they require two people to embrace. Previously, longan was a primary industry in this area. Continuing uphill, the legendary black water pipeline emerges, and the path suddenly becomes steep. Ascending requires physical exertion, but there are pavilions along the way to catch your breath. Looking back from the mid-point pavilion, you can see the Tianmu city area at the foot of the mountain, giving a sense of accomplishment, even while slightly out of breath. Reaching the end, on a clear day, you can gaze afar at the Linkou Plateau; it is said that the view of Taipei's night scenery from here is also splendid. After completing this steep ascent, you can wash your face and wipe off sweat by the water reservoir, and then it’s time to enter the shady paths. Those who have visited the Water Pipeline Trail often fall in love with it. The lush canopy provides shade, making summer walks feel comfortable and cool; in winter, one only hears the northern winds howling through the valleys, without feeling the piercing cold. The trail's surface is even and ideal for taking breaks to enjoy the views. Strolling along the woodland paths, the scenery shifts from mountains and valleys to Tianmu and Beitou, with terraced fields and rising mist creating a picturesque and enchanting landscape. The Water Pipeline Trail, standing at an altitude of only 300 meters, has been a "critical water source" and "conservation forest area" since the Japanese colonial period, featuring rich and primitive vegetation. Along the route, many indicative plants like ferns and taro are visible, with over three hundred plant species living in this well-preserved ecological environment. Along the cliffs, occasional rock piles can be found, while mountain spring water flowing from the cliffs enters the irrigation ditch, attracting many creek shrimp and tadpoles. The later sections of the trail even include a small stream with clear water also sourced from springs, serving as a breeding ground for various dragonflies and amphibians. From autumn to the following spring, one may occasionally hear the melodious calls of elegant red frogs resembling birdsong. In the early morning or dusk, you may also spot the Formosan macaques wandering in this area. The Water Pipeline Trail, originating from the Japanese occupation period, was built to channel spring water from the third water source to Tianmu and Shilin. Walking along the trail cut into the mountain wall, the large water pipes from the earlier steep sections are no longer visible, while the later pipes are buried beneath the trail. In the 1930s, stone slabs and soil were gradually laid over the pipes for protection, giving shape to the water pipeline trail. Near the Tianmu area, as the terrain became milder, the water pipeline and trail have diverged. At present, at the mountain’s edge, the irrigation ditches can be seen, and the stone piles directing spring water flow seem like a miniature version of the historic agricultural water conduits; standing alongside the uphill water pipeline, one can still hear the swift flow of water within the large pipe. The Sanjiao Pu Power Plant at the trail's entrance marks its starting point and the endpoint of the water pipeline, and even after retiring, it still witnesses the present and past of this waterway.
