Cizaiwei Trail Introduction
This is a refreshing hiking trail that offers a pleasant experience for both body and mind. The entrances at the north and south ends are accessible by turning into industrial roads from County Road 169, at the 10.5K and 9.5K markers, respectively. The undulating mountains of Taihe and the neatly arranged terraced tea gardens showcase a harmonious landscape of mountains and waters. Starting from the higher southern entrance (10.5K), you are greeted by broad tea plantations that extend the vista, and a low valley surrounded by towering mountains, providing a refreshing elevated perspective. As you walk along the paths through the tea gardens, the prominent landmark of Taihe Elephant Mountain can be seen on your left. Across from it, the imposing Giant Tower Mountain seems to observe the surroundings with a watchful gaze. As you continue forward, the altitude gradually decreases. A scenic pavilion perched at the mountain peak stands between the valleys, intensifying the immersive feeling brought by the surrounding mountains. Walking along the descending paths that follow the slope, one cannot help but feel embraced by the mountains. Next to the path, railways used for transporting materials and crops indicate an approaching steep grade. Continuing downhill, you will see dense forests comprised of cedar and broadleaf trees at the edges of the tea gardens. The surrounding crops become more diverse, featuring sweet persimmons, peaches, plums, Aiyu jelly, and bamboo shoots among the bamboo groves. Afterward, you will enter a section of the trail that undulates through the cedar forest, allowing you to fully enjoy the benefits of a forest bath. The native plants and shrubs beneath the trees display endless vitality. Exiting from the cedar forest and crossing through settlements and the industrial road, follow the signs towards "Dajia Dong". During the early days of pioneering the mountain forests, the preservation of this old Jiadong tree was a rare feat. Not far upstream, there is an arched bridge from which you can look back at Dajia Dong and the valley scenery. After crossing the bridge, a short segment of the trail awaits for a brief exploration, and it is also worth visiting.
