Maple Cove Douhu Trail Introduction
Many visitors come to Fenggui Dou Lake Trail in search of the "lake," but they often cannot find it. After asking locals, they realize that the area, which is a bowl-shaped depression surrounded by mountains on three sides, was historically referred to as a "lake." Upon closer inspection, one can find that the Guanyin Mountain Visitor Center is located right in the midst of this splendid "Dou Lake." Hikers walking the Guanyin Mountain Trail System often see this trail as a branch of the Yinghan Ridge Trail because the endpoint of the Fenggui Dou Lake Trail connects with the Yinghan Ridge Trail at 940 meters, without a separate peak of its own. The Fenggui Dou Lake Trail is approximately 788 meters long, with its entrance located behind the Guanyin Mountain Visitor Center at "Lion Park," next to Huafu Mountain Road (North 53). On the mountain wall opposite the parking lot, there is a sign for the "Fenggui Dou Lake Hiking Trail." Proceed along the industrial road for about 500 meters, then enter the small path on the left side of a residence; a series of well-placed stone steps begin to ascend steeply. Hikers on this trail seem to be seasoned veterans, moving leisurely and comfortably. The trail is flanked by lush forests and bamboo, providing excellent shade, while a nearby stream flows gently, accompanying the hikers’ footsteps and alleviating the strain on less experienced hikers who are sweating and panting. In fact, this trail is neither too long nor too short; the 788 meters of stone steps, taken with breaks, will unconsciously lead you to the saddle junction, connecting to the Yinghan Ridge Trail. Turning left goes toward Yinghan Ridge, while turning right takes you downhill past the Water Resources Agency relay station and the Weaklings Club, eventually leading to the exit on North 53 Road towards Lingyun Zen Temple. The Fenggui Dou Lake Trail is of moderate length and sufficient incline, making it a suitable trail for fitness, endurance training, and self-challenge.
