Maple Crate Doudou Lake Trail Introduction
Many tourists come to the Fenggui Douchi Trail searching in vain for the "lake." After inquiring with locals, they finally realize that the area, which is a bowl-shaped depression surrounded by mountains on three sides, is referred to as a "lake." Upon closer observation, one can find that the Guanyin Mountain Visitor Center is situated right within this scenic "Douchi." Hikers who traverse the Guanyin Mountain Trail System often view this trail as a subsidiary route to the Hard Man Ridge Trail, as the end of the Fenggui Douchi Trail connects with the Hard Man Ridge Trail at 940 meters, without having its own independent peak. The Fenggui Douchi Trail is approximately 788 meters long, with its entrance located behind the "Lion Park" at the Guanyin Mountain Visitor Center, alongside Huafu Mountain Road (North 53), marked by a sign that reads "Fenggui Douchi Climbing Trail" on the hillside opposite the parking lot. Following the industrial road for about 500 meters, hikers enter along a small path to the left of a residence, where neatly arranged stone steps begin to ascend steeply. Those trekking this trail seem like seasoned hikers, moving leisurely and calmly. Lush forests and bamboo flanking the trail provide excellent shade, while a stream beside the mountain path flows melodiously, accompanying the footsteps of hikers, slightly easing the fatigue of less experienced climbers. In fact, this trail can be described as neither long nor short; with 788 meters of stone steps, taking breaks along the way leads hikers to the saddle junction with the Hard Man Ridge Trail before they know it. Turning left leads to Hard Man Ridge, while going right will take one downhill past the Water Resources Agency Relay Station and the Weaklings Club, eventually linking to the North 53 road exit leading to the Lingyun Zen Temple's founding court, which is also a good option. The Fenggui Douchi Trail is of moderate length and steep enough, making it an ideal path for fitness, stamina training, and self-endurance.
