Yuemeishan Trail: Get Closer to Nature

※For trail opening information, please refer to the Hualien Branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, Ministry of Agriculture [Latest News]. The Yuemeishan Trail boasts rich flora and fauna, and in autumn, there's even a chance to observe the majestic sight of rufous-bellied eagles circling in the sky. Mizhan Village is located on Hualien County Road 193, renowned for its beautiful scenery. It used to be an important rest stop for cycling teams, and now serves as an entrance to the Yuemeishan Trail, making it one of the two national-level trails in the Coastal Mountain Range. Yuemeishan Mountain is situated at the junction of Yuemei, Mizhan, and Yanliao villages in Shoufeng Township. Its summit, at an elevation of 614 meters, is not particularly high, yet it has been listed as one of Taiwan's Lesser 100 Peaks, offering a good challenge for advanced hikers. Layered Landscapes from the Valley to the Central Mountain Range The Yuemeishan Trail has two entrances, North and South. The northern entrance is near Hualien Bridge, while the southern entrance is in Mizhan Village. However, from Mizhan Village on County Road 193, there's an additional 5.1-kilometer access road via Rural Road Hualien 38-1 to reach the trail entrance. Therefore, visitors to the Yuemeishan Trail must arrange their transportation. The Forestry Bureau has placed a sign at the trail entrance; crossing the wooden bridge behind it marks the official start of the trail. The Yuemeishan Trail is 4.8 kilometers long, following the main ridge of the Coastal Mountain Range. Dense, tall vegetation lines both sides. While it obstructs the panoramic views along the way, it also provides shade from the intense sun, making the hike less tiring even on warmer days. For visitors, it is recommended to enter from the Mizhan Village entrance, as after about 1 kilometer, you'll reach an observation deck, which offers the best views on the trail. Yuemeishan Mountain serves as the watershed for the Hualien River and the Shuilian River. From this prominent platform, one side offers a clear view of the wide longitudinal valley formed by the Hualien River and Shoufeng River, while the other side overlooks Shuilian Village along the Shuilian River. On clear days, the peaks of the Central Mountain Range are distinctly visible, with their lush green landscapes captivating every visitor's gaze. Afterward, you can choose to continue forward or return the same way, depending on your itinerary and physical condition. A Treasure Trove of Natural Ecology, Where Butterflies Dance Most of the Yuemeishan Trail consists of flat paths and safe steps, making it not difficult to walk. However, wild grass grows rapidly after rain, so caution should be exercised if visiting at such times. Additionally, due to its remote location and less convenient transportation, the trail maintains a more pristine state, allowing visitors to see diverse plants like foxtail grass. The fewer visitors also contribute to a remarkably rich variety and number of butterflies, leaving a deep impression.