Niugankeng Ridge Trail Introduction
The entrance to the Niugang Ridge Trail is located on the right side of the Guanyin Mountain Visitor Center. The giant stone sculpture "Descendants of the Dragon" is the most prominent landmark. The trail is 753 meters long, featuring a mix of stone paths and steel plank bridges, which are solid and smooth. Along the way, visitors can see a natural ecosystem dominated by herbaceous and vine plants, as well as large shade trees like acacia and red nanmu, with golden sunlight filtering through the forest. Walking slowly here brings a sense of relaxation and ease. From the entrance to "Chuhuo Hao," it is about 500 meters of steep ascent. Upon reaching the ridge line, there is a gentle slope leading to an eastern viewing platform that offers a broad vista. This place is the point where the signal fire was set for the Battle of Taipei in the year of Yiwei, filled with historical traces that evoke nostalgia. The gentle sloped gravel path from the saddle to the trail's end is about 300 meters long. Walking through the lush forest, one can hear the chirping of birds and insects, free from the noise of vehicles. Occasionally, the landscape opens up, revealing the beautiful scenery of Tamsui River estuary, instantly lifting one's spirits. Treehouses are also dotted alongside the trail, with unique designs that attract attention. The treehouses provide fun views, reminiscent of childhood. At the end of the trail, there is a viewing platform with aircraft wreckage and a stone tablet along the path, established to commemorate the 1972 Air Force training accident. After passing historical relics, ascending the stairs to the platform reveals a wide panoramic view of Keelung Harbor, Tamsui city, and even the northern coast visible from this spot. Here, one can pause to enjoy the scenery, as a gentle breeze refreshes the mind. The Niugang Ridge Trail is also an important butterfly path in northern Taiwan. Many subtropical nectar plants like red nanmu, jackfruit, fragrant nanmu, and stone pine are planted along the way, attracting various species of butterflies to feed, with larger species such as the red-spotted butterfly, leopard butterfly, golden lace butterfly, and gray butterfly being the most common. There are "Ecological Information Boards" set up on both sides of the trail, allowing visitors to learn about nature through an entertaining and educational approach, making it one of the important ecological education sites in northern Taiwan.
