Wuzhishan Range_Jinmian Mountain Qingshan Trail Introduction
Jinmian Mountain is part of the southwestern ridge of the Wuzhi Mountain range and is divided into Jinmian Mountain and Little Jinmian Mountain. The mountain's geology consists of andesitic sandstone containing quartz, which causes the peak to shine brightly when illuminated by the sun; thus, the locals 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 Deming Finance and Technology University on Huan Mountain Road in Neihu. Starting from the trailhead, one can see nearly vertical cliffs, and the path is lined with rustic sandstone steps. As the elevation increases, the stone steps are replaced by large cliffs with diameters exceeding 100 meters. At the halfway point, there is a stone fortress lookout from a quarry dating back to the Qing Dynasty, which serves as a prominent landmark, providing the best vantage point to view the city of Taipei and the banks of Keelung River. Proceeding east along the trail and after passing by Little Jinmian Mountain, one arrives near Jinlong Zen Temple on Section 3 of Neihu Road, which is the final part of the Hiking Trail. Jianstone Mountain, known as Jinmian Mountain, is located to the west of the Jinlong Industrial Road in Neihu. From the perspective of Bishan Rock, the summit's rocky formation resembles a bird's beak, earning it the alternative name Jianstone Mountain. Although it only stands 258 meters tall, it possesses a majestic mountain atmosphere. The valley was once a significant quarry site for stone materials during the Qing Dynasty when Taipei was being built. The large rocks are scattered, with evidence of quarrying still apparent. From the summit, one can gaze out at Neihu Dapi and the urban landscape of Taipei, enjoying wide views and beautiful scenery. The remnants of the Qing Dynasty quarry can be found at a seemingly unremarkable and even dilapidated rest area along the midway point of the trail, which is not only a designated historic site but also a testament to the stone construction of Taipei City. During the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, most of the stone for the Taipei city wall came from the quartz sandstone in this area, extending from Jinmian Mountain to Little Jinmian Mountain. Nearby the rest area, traces of drilled holes and neatly-cut fallen stones can still be seen, marking the location of the quarry remnants. If you find the hiking trails near Taipei lacking in challenge, it's because you haven't visited the majestic Jinmian Mountain. Upon entering the trail, the steep cliffs nearly seem vertical, towering above the stream below, exuding a spirit different from other suburban mountains. The rustic sandstone steps are narrow, allowing only one person to pass, and soon, large boulders start to emerge on both sides. As the gradient steepens, the stone steps disappear, replaced by massive cliffs exceeding one hundred meters in diameter. The original upright, parallel gigantic rocks now become the main feature, blocking the way forward. Whether you're eager to showcase your abilities or test your courage, strength, and willpower, conquering the summit requires overcoming this natural gym. After passing nature's test, take a moment to rest at the "Lun Jian Pavilion," which is adorned with scenic photographs. Shortly after, take the right path at the fork to reach the summit, entering the realm of Jianstone. Jinmian Mountain is also known as Jianstone Mountain, as the peak's rocky formation resembles a bird's beak when viewed from the direction of Bishan Rock in Neihu. The large rocks present a dynamic landscape; some rise sharply while others stand like pillars, creating a rare spectacle of clustered giant stones at the mountaintop. Visiting Jianstone is the highlight of exploring Jinmian Mountain. In addition to admiring the unique scenery, the panoramic view from here is first-rate. The quarry from the Qing Dynasty and the stone fortress lookout at the halfway point are excellent spots to enjoy the view of the Taipei basin, particularly clear along the banks of the Keelung River. At the summit amid the massive rocks, stunning 360-degree views surround you: to the east, the Neihu Dapi (Bihu Park); to the north, the mountains near Bishan Rock and Wuzhi Mountain; to the south, a glance at the Keelung River, Songshan Airport, Miramar Ferris Wheel, and Taipei 101; and to the west, the Taipei Basin and Keelung River unfold. This is a perfect location for a scenic overlook. At this moment, find a large rock cliff to lean against while enjoying the breeze, or lie back to relax and release the tension from climbing. If you're with a few friends in this open expanse, the experience far exceeds sipping afternoon tea in a city corner. As you leave the Jianstone area, you'll encounter another surprising scene: the sunlight reflects brightly off the ground, as if walking on a snow-white sandstone ridge, resembling a coastal path. This is due to the andesitic sandstone enriched with quartz. Locals were mesmerized by the mountain's sparkling peak and named it "Jinmian Mountain." In the rocky environment with many giant stones, the soil is likely not fertile. Coupled with a dry climate and wind exposure, only resilient plants can thrive here. On the ridge, you can find plants like Myrtus communis, Cudrania tricuspidata, and others that can withstand wind and drought. Near the quarry, you can see clusters of white-flowered Hedychium and white camphor trees, along with a considerable number of Acacia confusa on Jinmian Mountain. The "Baiwu Ping," the first lookout platform along the trail with views of the Neihu area and the Keelung River, is notable not only for the predominant species, white camphor, but also for the rare thorny leaved cherry, which is only found north of the Keelung River. On the trail to the summit, certain tree species that would normally require upward gazing due to their height can now be explored closely, making them more approachable. Along the way, there are several pavilions that provide resting spots while also allowing for ecological observation.
