Wuzhishan Mountain Range - Jinmianshan Qingshan Trail Introduction
Jinmian Mountain is a southwestern ridge of the Wuzhi Mountain Range, separating Jinmian Mountain from Xiaojinmian Mountain. The geology of this mountain is composed of andesitic sandstone containing quartz, which causes the summit to gleam in the sunlight, leading locals to refer to it as Jinmian Mountain. The hiking trail is approximately 2.3 kilometers long, with a total distance of about 3 kilometers, taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes to walk. The Jinmian Mountain Hiking Trail is located next to the Dewey University of Finance and Economics on Huanshan Road in Neihu. From the starting point, one can see steep vertical cliffs, with ancient sandstone steps along the way. As the slope gradually rises, the steps are replaced by large cliffs with a diameter of over 100 meters. Halfway up the mountain, there is a stone fortress lookout from a stone quarry dating back to the Qing Dynasty, which serves as a distinct landmark. The summit, nestled among giant rocks, provides the best vantage point for overlooking the landscapes of Taipei City and the Keelung River. Located on the west side of Neihu's Jinlong Industrial Road, Jianzi Mountain (also known as Scissor Rock Mountain) got its name from the sharp, beak-like profile of its summit as viewed from the direction of Biyuan Temple. Although it is only 258 meters high, it possesses a grand mountain atmosphere. The valley was once where stone materials were sourced for the construction of Taipei during the Qing Dynasty, with massive, rugged boulders still displaying remnants of quarrying. From the summit, one can enjoy expansive views of the Neihu Great Pond and the urban landscape of Taipei. The remnants of the ancient quarry, which looks unremarkable and somewhat dilapidated, are found halfway along the trail. This site is not only a designated historical monument but also a testament to the construction of Taipei. During the Guangxu period, the stone materials for the city walls were mostly sourced from these quartz sandstones, with quarrying extending from Jinmian Mountain to Xiaojinmian Mountain. Today, one can still see borings and neatly cut stones near the resting place by the shed, which marks the location of the quarry site. If you find the hiking trails around Taipei to be lacking in interest and challenge, it is because you have yet to visit the imposing Jinmian Mountain. Upon entering the trailhead, the steep cliffs beside the trail rise almost vertically, towering above the stream below, presenting a different atmosphere from other suburban mountains. The ancient sandstone steps narrow down to a single file, while large boulders begin to appear along the sides. As you ascend, the steps disappear and are replaced by massive cliffs, which become the focal point of your journey. Regardless of whether you want to showcase your skills or test your courage, physical endurance, and willpower, you'll need to conquer this natural gym before reaching the summit. After overcoming the challenges of nature, take a moment to rest at the "Lunji Pavilion," adorned with scenic photographs, before taking the right fork leading to the summit and entering the realm of Scissor Rock. Jinmian Mountain is also known as Scissor Rock Mountain due to the sharp beak-like appearance of the summit boulders when viewed from the direction of Neihu and Biyuan Temple. The jumbled and towering rocks here create a rare sight, with some standing upright like columns, providing an impressive landscape. Visiting Scissor Rock is the highlight of the Jinmian Mountain experience, offering unique scenery and exceptional viewpoints. The half-mountain quarry site and stone fortress platform serve as excellent spots for viewing the Taipei Basin, particularly clear when looking downstream along the Keelung River. Between the giant rocks at the summit, a breathtaking 360-degree panorama awaits: to the east, the Neihu Great Pond (Bihai Park); to the north, the hills near Biyuan Temple and Wuzhi Mountain; to the south, views of the Keelung River, Songshan Airport, Miramar Ferris Wheel, and Taipei 101; and to the west overlook the Taipei Basin and Keelung River. The view from the top captures the urban landscape of Northern Taipei, making it a worthwhile spot for a high-altitude gaze. At this point, find a rock jutting out from the cliff to embrace the wind with open arms, or lie back and relax, letting go of the tension from climbing. If accompanied by friends, enjoying conversation in this expansive setting is incomparable to sipping afternoon tea in a city corner. As you leave the Scissor Stone area, a surprising scene awaits: the ground glistens under the sunlight, and despite walking on white sandstone ridges, it appears as if you are walking along the coast. This shimmering effect is due to the quartz content in the andesitic sandstone. The rocky environment implies that the soil is not fertile, and the dry climate, combined with incoming winds, means only hardy plants can thrive here. Resilient species such as Myrtus communis, oleaster, and various drought-resistant flora grow in the ridge area, while white-flowered plants thrive near the quarry. Additionally, various species of acacia trees are found in considerable numbers on Jinmian Mountain. The first platform along the trail where you can overlook the Neihu area and the Keelung River is "Baijun Ping," featuring several white-flowering trees that are rare and only found north of the Keelung River. While making your way from the trailhead to the summit, species typically only seen towering in other forests become more accessible and approachable, thanks to their shorter stature. Along the way, several pavilions provide spots for ecological observation and resting, ensuring you won't lack places to pause.
