Zhukengxi Trail Introduction
Update: Currently, access is available from the west entrance to bridges 8 and 9, allowing visitors to reach Longgong Waterfall. The Zhukeng Creek Trail is located in Ruifeng Village, Meishan Township, Chiayi County. This 3.3-kilometer trail runs along the Zhukeng Creek valley and was originally an ancient charcoal path used by locals to transport wood charcoal and goods down the mountain for sale in exchange for daily necessities. After renovations, it transformed into the current Zhukeng Creek Trail, which captivates many hiking enthusiasts with its rich scenic features, taking about 2.5 hours one way. The trail has an elevation difference of 375 meters between its two ends; entering from the higher eastern side begins with an easy flat segment until a sharp turn leads into a cedar forest, where its steepness becomes apparent. This is just the prelude; after a brief rest at a viewpoint and restroom near an intersection with an industrial road, the journey down into Zhukeng Creek Valley begins in earnest. This area, eroded year-round by Zhukeng Creek, features numerous bridges along the way, with rich landscapes including canyons, cliffs, and waterfalls. Between bridges 2 and 4, there are sections that continue to descend along the cliff walls with occasional large rocks protruding, requiring caution. Beyond bridge 4, you enter the region where waterfalls develop, such as Shengmaoshu, Longgong, and Leyin. Among these, Longgong and Leyin Waterfalls, tributaries of Zhukeng Creek, sit on a hard rock bed, forming "hanging valley waterfalls" that cascade dramatically during the rainy season or after heavy rains, leaving spectators in awe. Continuing downstream in the creek valley, there is a long wooden plank road between bridges 5 and 6; just before reaching bridge 7, there is a section of concrete steps. Several prominent boulders have become the most natural rock formations along this section. Next, crossing bridge 10 in front of Leyin Waterfall allows for close-up experiences of the refreshing negative ions. After this, the trail ascends steadily, with only a few geologically fragile sections requiring special attention, and there are no significant elevation changes thereafter. After passing bridges 11 and 12 and several turns, you'll arrive at a gazebo, restroom, and a privately-operated store where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and taste local agricultural products. Following the trail past several plots of vegetable gardens and tea fields leads to the parking lot at the west exit.
