Forest Recreation Area Series PART.

Just returned from the Guanwu Forest trip, and I was truly healed by the entire mountain forest! Upon entering, I first visited the Visitor Center, which also features a free Salamander Ecology Museum. After enjoying some snacks, I ventured into the Misty Trail. The misty surroundings, wooden boardwalks, and views of the Shei-Pa Ridge Line make this trail a condensed essence of the forest. Next, I explored the Guanwu Waterfall Trail, where the sounds of streams and towering trees accompany you along the way. The 30-meter waterfall is absolutely breathtaking. For those wanting to delve deeper into the forest, you can continue to the Hinoki Giant Tree Trail or the Zhenshan Trail. A 3–4 hour hike will immerse you in a world surrounded by red cypress and Taiwan cedar, with views of the Snow Mountain Range in the distance. This area is rich in bird species, such as Mikado pheasants and Taiwan yuhinas, showcasing its abundant biodiversity. Best of all: free admission, no parking fees, and well-maintained trails. Whether you're into selfies, family outings, or leisurely strolls, this place is perfect 🥰 🌿 Recommended Trail Highlights 👉🏻 Misty Trail (Approx. 800 meters / 30 minutes round trip): Located right next to the Visitor Center, this trail features well-paved wooden boardwalks and three viewing platforms. It's very gentle and mysterious, often offering views of sea clouds and the Shei-Pa Mountain Range. 👉🏻 Guanwu Waterfall Trail (Approx. 1.5 km / 1.5 hours): This trail takes you into a pristine broadleaf forest. After walking for 30–50 minutes, you'll reach the 30-meter-high Guanwu Waterfall, where the forest and stream sounds intertwine for a truly healing experience. 👉🏻 Hinoki Giant Tree Trail (Approx. 4 km / 3 hours): Following the old railway tracks, this trail is flat and easy to walk, with excellent facilities. You'll encounter magnificent red cypress, Taiwan cedar, and hinoki giant trees, making it an ideal choice for forest bathing. 👉🏻 Zhenshan Forest Bathing Trail (4.13 km / 3–4 hours): Designed as a loop with viewing platforms, this trail is perfect for travelers with good stamina and some extra time. In autumn and winter, you can enjoy maple leaves, while spring and summer bring blooming flowers. At the highest point, you can overlook the Snow Mountain and Dabajianshan Ridge Line. 🦋 Half-Day Ecological and Scenic Tour This area is home to Taiwan's endemic species, such as salamanders, Taiwan yuhinas, and Mikado pheasants, showcasing its rich forest ecology. Parents can bring their children to the Visitor Center in the afternoon to learn about salamanders, then take a leisurely walk along the Misty Trail to refresh their lungs. Follow this with a hike to the waterfall or giant tree trails for a perfect balance of relaxation and challenge! 🚗 Transportation 👉🏻 By car: Follow the Nanqing Highway to Qingquan and Tuchang, then follow the signs to Guanwu for free parking. 👉🏻 Public transport: The "Taiwan Tourist Shuttle - Guanwu Line" offers direct access to Guanwu Visitor Center from Hsinchu High-Speed Rail Station or Zhudong, making it very convenient. 📌 Tips and Recommended Itinerary 👉🏻 Operating hours: 08:00–17:00 (closed on Chinese New Year's Eve) 👉🏻 Clothing suggestions: The high-altitude area is cool, so bring a jacket, non-slip shoes, water, and light snacks. 👉🏻 In addition to the trails, don't forget to visit the Visitor Center and Salamander Museum, enjoy some snacks, and recharge your energy. 👉🏻 If you have more time, the Hinoki Trail or Zhenshan Bathing Trail are excellent options for deeper exploration.