Forty-Two Ponds Introduction
In the upstream of the Penglai River in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli, there is a little-known hidden gem, the 42 Points Ping Ecological Trail. The entire trail is shaded by lush trees, with gentle streams along the path, the sounds of insects and birds, and fish swimming beneath the water. This serene trail is vibrant with life, offering numerous spots for fish watching. The trail is made up of wooden paths and stone-paved surfaces, featuring a gentle slope. It is approximately 400 meters long, taking around 20 minutes to complete, making it an easy stroll for most people and suitable for families with children, especially recommended in the summer for escaping the heat. At the end of the 42 Points Ping Trail, there is a natural spring pool, which is a characteristic attraction here, maintaining an annual water temperature of about 18 degrees Celsius. The clear cold spring flows from the crevices of the rocks, providing a refreshing escape in summer and a misty ambiance in winter, resembling a fairyland. The area is calm, with the water surface almost still like a lake, and the clear water allows for a view of the native fish such as red mullet and Taiwan stonefish swimming, with the pebbles and aquatic plants at the bottom clearly visible. On hot days, visitors can take off their shoes and soak their feet in the shallower parts of the pool, feeling the refreshing chill. Surrounding the pool and the trail, the vegetation is lush, with beech and cedar trees forming a forest; the reflections of the tree line and shrubs cast upon the still water create a picturesque landscape. In the summer, one can also see the blossoming of tung flowers and the dancing of fireflies, adding vitality to this tranquility. Unless visitors are reluctant to leave, this place can be said to be an impeccable paradise on earth.
