Dream Lake Introduction
Dream Lake is located at the southeastern foot of Qixing Mountain, at an elevation of approximately 860 meters. The origin of the lake is not clearly defined; it might be a crater lake, a depression formed by gas vents, or a result of volcanic subsidence. The lake is home to a rare aquatic fern known as Taiwan Ophioglossum, which grows in one of the lowest latitudes worldwide. This plant is extremely rare, and to protect this national treasure of an aquatic fern, Dream Lake has been designated as an ecological reserve. General visitors are prohibited from entering the lake area, but there is a platform nearby for scenic viewing. In the autumn and winter, rainfall is minimal, and the lake surface often dries up. During spring and summer, continuous rains can fill the lake to overflowing, creating a dreamy landscape, especially when enveloped in mountain mist, with the lake's colors blending with the mountain shadows and clouds. The route passes through the Yangmingshan Bus Terminal -> Visitor Center -> Lengshuikeng Station -> Dream Lake -> Qixing Park -> Visitor Center Station. Distance: From the Visitor Center, take the Bus 108 to Lengshuikeng Station, then travel through Dream Lake and Qixing Park back to the Visitor Center, with a total distance of approximately 3.1 kilometers. Walking time: About 110 minutes. Route conditions: The path 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 serves as an ecological reserve, providing a habitat for the national treasure Taiwan Ophioglossum and various aquatic plants. The area is filled with the sounds of frogs, insects, and birds, creating a beautiful natural rhythm amidst the misty lake. Qixing Park features pavilions and long corridors, offering excellent views on clear days, allowing visitors to gaze upon the lush plant life on the slopes of Qixing Mountain or overlook Taipei City, Shamao Mountain, and even the distant Xue Mountain range.
