Yinghan Ridge Trail Introduction
The Iron Men Ridge Trail, built in 1961, is adjacent to the Military Police School located at the foot of the Guanyin Mountain in Wugu. It was established to train soldiers' spirit and perseverance, following the remains of the old "Guanyin Ancient Path." At the highest point of Iron Men Ridge, an archway and a monument were constructed, symbolizing the spirit of the young generation at that time, who took pride in challenging Iron Men Ridge. The trail is approximately 1,563 meters long, starting about 100 meters below the Lingyun Zen Temple along Road No. 53-1, making it a popular route for general hikers, with a "zigzag" ascent along the way. Another entrance is located at the end of the "Fenggui Dou Lake Trail," which connects with the Iron Men Ridge Trail at the 940-meter mark, leading up to the observation platform at the highest point marked by a monument. About 300 meters along the trail, there is a stone tablet inscribed with "Iron Men Road," reflecting the rigorous training of military police at that time. This part of the trail leading to the "Weaklings Club" on the ridge is particularly challenging; it is no wonder that those who consider themselves strong have established a resting point called the "Weaklings Club" halfway up the mountain. While it seems to mock those who cannot make it up, it also serves as encouragement for those with weaker stamina, inspiring fellow hikers to persevere and shake off the label of "weakness" to become true iron men! In fact, once one manages to get past the challenging segment of the "Weaklings Club," the flatter mountain path ahead offers a rewarding experience. At the 940-meter point, the trail connects with the Fenggui Dou Lake Trail, featuring a wide and flat stone pathway that is quite easy to traverse. Along the way, there is a Guanyin tea pavilion, where a poem titled "Dumu" is inscribed on a pot: "Upon reaching the peak, I have come; by cultivating the heart, you remain safe; if observing life, where does one head? The waters whisper a harmony in the world." Next to it hangs a steel cup on a short chain, forcing one to bow down to drink water, thoughtfully reminding hikers to appreciate the source of the water and to respectfully honor the protection of Guanyin. Continuing to the 1,500-meter fork in the road, a platform to the left features a pavilion and restroom, while to the right, the sharply styled Iron Men Ridge archway towers ahead, flanked by couplets inscribed: "To walk, seek the difficult path; to carry a load, choose the heaviest burden," and "I come to learn to be an iron man, I go to become an iron man," embodying the spirit of toughness. Moving upward, the monument at the observation platform marked "Iron Men Ridge" becomes visible, offering an expansive view of the Tamsui River estuary, the North Coast, the Datun Mountains, and the Linkou Plateau.
