Qingshan Waterfall Trail Introduction
As you travel through Shimen, in addition to following the coastline and experiencing the marvelous changes of nature, it's worthwhile to drive into the mountains for a tranquil forest journey, enjoying the comfort and freedom away from the hustle and bustle. Driving along Provincial Highway 2, the scenery ahead is filled with azure seas and blue skies. About 26 kilometers ahead (opposite Laomei Elementary School), turn right at the sign for Qingshan Waterfall. Once you enter County Road 17, the familiar blue scenery dramatically transforms into vibrant greens, and you find yourself amidst rolling hills, where you can see terraced fields cultivated in harmony with the landscape. The towering Zhuzihua Mountain gathers abundant water from the surroundings, and the water flows through a ravine with significant elevation changes, leading to the formation of the Qingshan Waterfall within the Shimen forest, which is approximately 8 meters high and was formerly known as Jianshan Lake Waterfall. To visit the picturesque Qingshan Waterfall, you must climb along the irrigation channel, originally built for the terraced fields. Following the sound of flowing water, you can leisurely walk along the path. Looking around, you will be accompanied by Qingshan Mountain and Laomei River, with Miscanthus waving in the wind and various uniquely shaped trees lining the path. Occasionally, you can glance back at the coastline, observing the hills rolling up from the mountains, showcasing terraced fields everywhere. Enjoy the pleasant views from above; or continue forward, make a turn into the valley, and walk along the stream on the stones to experience the joy of playing in the water. This 1.3-kilometer trail leading to Qingshan Waterfall, located within Yangmingshan National Park, takes about 40 minutes to complete.
