Zhukeng River Trail Introduction
Update: Currently open for entry from the west entrance to Bridges 8 and 9, you can reach Longgong Waterfall. The Zhukeng Stream Trail is located in Ruifeng Village, Meishan Township, Chiayi County. This 3.3-kilometer trail, which follows the Zhukeng Stream Valley, was originally an ancient path for residents to carry charcoal and goods down the mountain for sale in exchange for daily necessities. After renovations, it has transformed into the current Zhukeng Stream Trail, captivating numerous hiking enthusiasts with its rich scenic features, with a one-way journey taking about 2.5 hours. The elevation difference at both ends of the trail reaches 375 meters. If you enter from the higher eastern side, the initial flat section is easy to walk until you encounter a sharp bend leading downhill into the cypress forest, where you can feel its steepness. This is just the prelude; after a brief rest at a viewing pavilion and public restroom near an intersection with an industrial road, the journey into the Zhukeng Stream Valley officially begins. Over the years, the continuous erosion by the Zhukeng Stream has resulted in many bridges along the way, and the scenic views of gorges, cliffs, and waterfalls are quite abundant. Between Bridges 2 and 4, the path descends along the cliffs and continues downward, with occasional protruding boulders that require careful navigation. After Bridge 4, you arrive at an area rich in waterfall formations such as "Shengmaoshu," "Longgong," and "Leiyin." Among these, the Longgong and Leiyin Waterfalls, which are tributaries of the Zhukeng Stream, form a "hanging valley waterfall" because they are situated on hard rock formations, with tributaries suspended above the main stream. During the rainy season or after heavy rainfall, the majestic waterfalls cascade down from high above, awe-inspiring to behold. Continuing downstream through the valley, the section between Bridges 5 and 6 still features a lengthy wooden plank road; just before arriving at Bridge 7, there is a section of concrete steps. Several protruding boulders create the most natural rock formations along this segment. Next, crossing Bridge 10 in front of the Leiyin Waterfall allows you to experience the refreshing anions up close. After this, the trail continues uphill, with only a few geologically fragile sections requiring special attention, and no more significant elevation changes. After passing Bridges 11 and 12 and several bends, you reach a pavilion, restroom, and a private shop. You can enjoy a cup of coffee and taste local agricultural products, then follow the trail through several patches of vegetable fields and tea gardens to arrive at the parking lot at the west entrance.
