Caoling Historic Trail

A century-old trail, the 8.5-kilometer-long Caoling Historic Trail is a very popular mountain path in the Northeast Coast. Located between Yuanwangping in New Taipei City and Dali in Yilan, it was an important route for early settlers traveling between Taipei and Yilan, and is also the only remaining section of the Danlan Historic Trail. Along the ancient trail, one can see evergreen broadleaf forests lining the path, artificially cultivated coniferous trees, and tree ferns (Alsophila spinulosa), characteristic of subtropical rainforests. Following the gentle slope, hikers will pass by quaint historical relics such as the Diesima Bridge (Dead Horse Bridge), Xianjiyan (Immortal's Footprint Rock), and the "Xiong Zhen Man Yan Stele" and "Tiger Character Stele," both designated as national third-class historical sites. Especially when ascending to the Yakou (pass), in autumn, as the monsoon winds blow, the white miscanthus flowers sway in the breeze, resembling layers of waves surging over the mountaintops. The scenery is delightful, making it a hiking trail that offers both scenic enjoyment and cultural enrichment. Autumn-exclusive Beauty – Caoling Historic Trail Miscanthus Festival Every November, as the northeast monsoon winds blow, the white miscanthus flowers covering the mountains resemble countless fluttering snowflakes, blanketing the layered peaks and greatly enhancing the trail's beauty, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. Step onto the stone-slab historic trail once traversed by early settlers, accompanied by the romantic and beautiful autumn miscanthus, and fully enjoy the autumn scenery and the cultural charm of the ancient path. The Tiger Character Stele, Xiong Zhen Man Yan – Cultural Relics Penned with a Flourish The Tiger Character Stele is said to have been inscribed by Liu Ming-deng, the General Commander of Taiwan, who, during his northern inspection tour to Yakou, encountered fierce winds. Taking inspiration from the I Ching's "Wind follows the Tiger," he used miscanthus as a brush to spontaneously write the character "Tiger" on the spot, to quell the strong winds and ensure traveler safety. The Xiong Zhen Man Yan (Majestic Guard Against Barbaric Smoke/Mists) is said to have been inscribed in the sixth year of Tongzhi (1867) during Liu Ming-deng's northern inspection tour. Passing through the mountainside of Caoling, he encountered dense fog and inscribed the four characters "Xiong Zhen Man Yan" to dispel the miasma. From these precious historical relics, one can glimpse the pioneering spirit of early settlers who braved hardships to open up the mountains and forests. Yakou Pass – Where Classic Beauty Resides This depression, formed by the convergence of two mountains, offers a wide vista. When the monsoon winds blow, the sea of miscanthus waves creates a charming scene. Standing in the pavilion, one can overlook the beautiful scenery of Guishan Island. When visiting the Caoling Historic Trail, this excellent viewpoint is absolutely not to be missed, and it's also one of the must-photograph spots. Ranger Station – A Secret Base in the Mountains There's also a historic trail inn in the mountains, which is actually a ranger station specially renovated by the management office using traditional methods. With its antique architectural appearance and the surrounding lush greenery, it resembles a mountain villa. The station currently sells affordable and simple refreshments, welcoming hikers to rest and chat here. Travelers who appreciate historic charm should also make sure to visit, to enjoy the stunning view of mountains and sea and some leisurely time! [Hiking Tips] Visitors climbing the mountain are advised not to pick miscanthus flowers; violators may be fined according to the Regulations for the Development of Tourism. Please also carry your trash down the mountain to collectively maintain the cleanliness of the mountain forest environment. Due to unstable weather in the mountains, it is recommended to dress in layers and wear non-slip shoes. Also remember to bring rain gear and sufficient drinking water.