Canguangliao Ancient Trail Introduction
Canguangliao Mountain is adjacent to the famous Jinguashi Scenic Area, with an elevation of 739 meters, making it the highest peak in the Keelung Volcano Group. The area is characterized by lush Chinese silver grass, which is particularly vibrant in autumn when the mountains are covered in silver flowers shining brightly in the sunlight. This is said to be the origin of the name "Canguangliao." The summit of Canguangliao Mountain has no obstructions, and there are no higher mountains nearby, offering a panoramic view that extends nearly 100 kilometers in radius. On a clear day, one can see Taipei City on one side and Sandiaojiao Lighthouse and the Northeast Coast on the other. Following the inclusion of Yilan under the jurisdiction of the Taiwan Prefecture in 1812, the ancient Canguangliao Path became an important official road due to the increasing frequency of correspondence between Taipei and Yilan. The government established a military base along the old path, indirectly promoting the development of the Canguangliao area. The tea trade during the late Qing Dynasty and gold mining during the Japanese colonial period further increased its prosperity. Although time has changed and the splendor has faded, remnants of the ancient path still testify to its past glory.
