Nangang Mountain Range - Xiangshan Hiking Trail Introduction
Elephant Mountain has an elevation of 183 meters, with a trail length of 1,450 meters, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. Named for its resemblance to an elephant's head, it is located in the southeastern part of Taipei Basin, within the Xinyi District, and shares geological characteristics with Tiger Mountain, primarily composed of sandstone. Due to tectonic uplift, the trail features steep yellow-brown rock faces and boulders, and the diverse array of flora and bird species in the natural environment makes the entire mountain a natural ecological paradise, providing a great place for the public to enjoy leisurely outdoor moments close to the low hills. Elephant Mountain has various microenvironments such as ridges, cliffs, slopes, hollows, and valleys, nurturing dozens of fern species. Ferns are commonly seen throughout Elephant Mountain, some attached to tree trunks, others growing on rocks and slopes, and many densely populated in the damp forest understory. Among them, the population of the golden-haired fern is particularly large, making it the most abundant in Taipei City. In a time when medical resources were limited, it was considered an effective remedy for stopping bleeding in folk medicine. Additionally, in open, sunny, and moist hollow areas, there exists the ancient fern "Sigillaria" that has been around since the Jurassic period. The clusters of Sigillaria represent one of the most precious ecological features in Taipei City, and this phenomenon of clustered Sigillaria can only be seen in northern Taiwan. Elephant Mountain is the highest point within the Four Beasts Mountain Trail system. With no barrier in front, the view from the top is wide and unobstructed, offering a panoramic view of the Xinyi business district—landmarks like Taipei 101, the World Trade Center, Warner Village, and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi can be easily identified. The ridge extends into Xinyi District's Qiang Park, making it a favored place for local residents to take morning or evening walks and an ideal green space for those seeking relaxation on weekends. The six giant boulders on Elephant Mountain, known for their unique formations, are also called Laolai Gorge. Climbing up these giant stones offers a view of the bustling Xinyi business district, making it a popular spot for photography. In the early morning, visitors can witness the awakening of Taipei 101 in the dawn light, while in the evening, the sunset over the metropolitan scenery of Xinyi, with the brilliance of city lights, is dazzling. Yixian Pavilion (Elephant Mountain Top) is located at the end of the path beside the hexagonal pavilion, offering excellent views to appreciate the entire shape of Elephant Mountain, especially the elephant's head and trunk. The bridge of the trunk corresponds to Yongchun High School, while the long trunk itself extends into a ridge between Songshan Road and Songde Campus. Near the Songde campus direction, there is a viewpoint called "One Line Sky" along the Elephant Mountain hiking trail, where the two ridges come very close, resulting in towering cliffs that block the sky. Hikers looking up from the trail can see a narrow strip of sky through the crevice of the cliffs, which gives it the name "One Line Sky." The best panoramic view of the Taipei Basin is found at "Chaoran Pavilion," positioned on the ridge grant a wide view, thus crowned among the pavilions of Elephant Mountain. From the platform of Chaoran Pavilion, one can see the Xinyi Planning Area below, and further out the Guanyin Mountain, Beitou incinerator, and the Datun volcanic group. Many people come here to watch the fireworks during New Year’s Eve or National Day, highlighting its allure. As you walk around to the giant stone park staircase, you will find a large boulder with man-made carved steps that lead you to overlook the Taipei Basin. Continuing along the path, you can view the beauty of the Taipei Basin from different angles as you descend from the left mountain waist to the right. The charm of Elephant Mountain is found all along the trail, which features informative signs guiding visitors to understand the mountain’s characteristics, making it a very popular natural classroom. You will not lack for ecological tours, just follow the signs and you yourself will become a forest guide. In the moist environment, the presence of snail populations is also quite remarkable, with species such as the Taiwan Giant Snail and the Smoky Snail visible throughout the mountainous area. This is a low-elevation, original broadleaf forest rich in ecological diversity and green charm, with even more surprises waiting for you to discover! After climbing Elephant Mountain, if you are feeling energetic or want to stretch your muscles, there are various physical fitness facilities along the trail that enhance strength and lung capacity. Visitors can see groups gathering at Yixian Pavilion at the summit for exercise, while energetic children weave in and out among them, making it a great place for family activities.
