Nangang Mountain Range_Xiangshan Hiking Trail Introduction
Xiangshan is 183 meters above sea level, with a trail that is 1,450 meters long, taking approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. Named for its resemblance to the head of an elephant, it is located in the Xinyi District, southeast of the Taipei Basin, and shares geological features with Hushan, primarily composed of sandstone. Due to tectonic movements, steep yellow-brown rock walls and boulders can be seen along the trail, and the rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and birds, makes this mountain a natural ecological paradise, ideal for the public to enjoy a leisurely time in the outdoor green spaces. Xiangshan features a variety of microenvironments such as ridges, rock walls, slopes, hollows, and valleys, fostering dozens of species of ferns. Ferns are abundant throughout Xiangshan, with some attached to tree trunks, others growing on rocks and slopes, and densely populating the moist forest floors. Among them, the population of the golden dog hair fern is particularly large, ranking first in Taipei City. In past times when medical resources were scarce, it was commonly used in folk medicine to stop bleeding. Additionally, in open, sunny, and moist hollows, there exist ancient ferns known as "bamboo trees" that date back to the Jurassic period. The clusters of these bamboo trees represent a precious ecological feature unique to Taipei City, as they can only be seen in northern Taiwan. Xiangshan is the highest point in the Four Beasts Mountain Trail system. With no obstructions in front, the view from the summit is expansive, providing a comprehensive sight of the Xinyi business district, including prominent buildings like Taipei 101, the World Trade Center, Warner Villages, and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, alongside a panoramic view of the Taipei Basin. The back ridgeline extends into Xinyi District's Qiang Park, becoming a great spot for local residents for morning and evening walks, as well as a green area for relaxation on weekends. The six boulders on Xiangshan create a spectacular scenery, also known as Laolai Gorge. Climbing these boulders affords a view of the bustling Xinyi business district, making it a popular photography spot. Early morning hikes offer a glimpse of Taipei 101 awakening in the morning light, while at dusk, visitors can enjoy the cityscape of Xinyi, with the sunset and the twinkling lights of the night creating a brilliant scene. The Yihsien Pavilion (Xiangshan Peak) is located at the platform at the end of the path beside the hexagonal pavilion, offering excellent views of the entire Xiangshan, especially the elephant's head and trunk, which are quite lifelike. The trunk corresponds to Yongchun High School, while the long trunk stretches into a platform between Songshan Road and Songde Campus. Near the Songde Campus direction of the Xiangshan qinshān Trail, there is a spot called “Yixian Tian” (A Narrow Sky), where the two ridges are very close to each other, and the towering cliff wall blocks the sky above. Hikers looking up along the trail see a narrow strip of sky through the gap in the cliff wall, hence the name "Yixian Tian." As for the best location to overlook the Taipei Basin, it is naturally at "Chaoran Pavilion," situated along the ridgeline with a wide view, earning its name from being the best viewing pavilion on Xiangshan. Standing on the platform of Chaoran Pavilion, one can see the Xinyi Planning Area below, and the farther view stretches to sights like Yuanshan, the Beitou Incinerator, Guanyin Mountain, and the Datun Volcano Group. Many people gather here to watch fireworks during New Year's Eve or National Day celebrations, highlighting its allure. Near the stone park steps, there is a massive boulder with man-made steps carved into it, allowing visitors to ascend and overlook the Taipei Basin. Continuing forward, visitors can descend from the left mountain slope to the right side, enjoying views of the Taipei Basin from different angles, showcasing the charm of Xiangshan. The trail is equipped with interpretive signs guiding visitors to understand the features of the entire mountain, making it a popular natural classroom. Along the way, there is no shortage of ecological tours; just "follow the map," and you can be your own forest guide. In this moist environment, the population of snails is also quite observable, with species like the Giant African Land Snail and the Pipe Snail found throughout the mountain area. This is a low-elevation original broadleaf forest with rich and diverse ecology, brimming with greenery and many surprises waiting for you to discover! Upon reaching the top of Xiangshan, if you have plenty of energy or want to stretch your muscles, the trail sides are equipped with many physical fitness facilities to boost stamina and lung capacity. You can often see groups doing exercises at the Yihsien Pavilion, with energetic children weaving through the area; it’s a great place for family activities.
