Sihzihfenping Introduction
In the upstream of the Plums Creek in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli, there is a little-known secret spot called the 42份坪 Ecological Trail. The entire trail is shaded by green trees, with a gentle stream flowing along the path, the sounds of insects and birds echoing, and fish visible swimming beneath the clear water. This tranquil trail is vibrant with life, offering numerous spots for fish watching. The path is made of wooden walkways and stone-paved surfaces, with a gentle incline, measuring approximately 400 meters and taking about 20 minutes to walk the whole distance. It is easy for most people to walk, making it suitable for families with the elderly and children, especially recommended for summer visits to cool off. At the end of the 42份坪 Trail, there is a natural spring pool, which is a highlight of this area. The water temperature here is about 18 degrees Celsius year-round, with clear cold springs gushing out from the cracks in the stones, providing refreshment in summer and a mystical atmosphere in winter with rising mist. The area is windless, and the surface of the pool is almost as still as a lake, with crystal-clear water allowing a view of the bottom, where indigenous fish such as the sweetfish and Taiwan stonefish swim freely. Even the gravel and aquatic plants on the pool's bottom are clearly visible. On hot days, visitors can take off their shoes and soak their feet in the shallower sections, enjoying the refreshing coolness. Surrounding the pool and the trail, the vegetation is lush, with beech and cedar trees forming a forest. The reflections of the trees and shrubs on the calm water create a picturesque landscape akin to a traditional Chinese watercolor painting. In summer, one can also see the blossoming of Paulownia flowers and the dance of fireflies, adding vitality to this serene spot. Unless visitors leave with lingering feelings, this place can be described as an impeccable paradise on earth.
