Dream Lake Introduction
Dream Lake is located on the southeastern slope of Qixing Mountain, at an elevation of approximately 860 meters. The exact cause of its formation is unclear; it may be a volcanic crater lake, a depression filled with groundwater from gas vents, or a result of volcanic subsidence. The lake is home to a rare aquatic fern, Taiwan Isoetes, which grows at a very low latitude, making this plant extremely rare. To protect this national treasure-level aquatic fern, Dream Lake has been designated as an ecological reserve. Generally, tourists are prohibited from entering the lake area, but a platform has been established nearby for viewing. This area experiences little rainfall in autumn and winter, often resulting in a dry lake surface, while spring and summer bring frequent rains. After heavy rains, the lake may overflow; when enveloped in mountain mist, the lake is surrounded by ethereal mountain reflections and cloudiness, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The route passes through Yangmingshan Bus Terminal -> Visitor Center -> Lengshuikeng Station → Dream Lake → Qixing Park → Visitor Center Station. Distance: From the Visitor Center, take Bus 108 to Lengshuikeng Station and then proceed to Dream Lake and Qixing Park back to the Visitor Center; the total distance is approximately 3.1 kilometers. Walking time: About 110 minutes. Route conditions: The trail from Lengshuikeng Station to Dream Lake is an uphill steep slope, while the path from Dream Lake to the Visitor Center is a downhill steep slope. Route highlights: Dream Lake is an ecological reserve and habitat for the national treasure-level Taiwan Isoetes and various aquatic plants. The chorus of numerous frogs, insects, and birds fills the misty atmosphere of the lake, enhancing the beauty of nature's rhythm. Qixing Park features pavilions and long corridors, offering excellent views on clear days, including lush slopes of Qixing Mountain, the skyline of Taipei, Shamao Mountain, and a distant view of the Snow Mountain range.
