Carp Hill Trail is a lovely walk whatever time of day you go, but I hope this post emboldens you to pay it an after-dark visit. Not only is it home to a wonderfully diverse range of nocturnal critters, but it also has a prettily sparkling night view to enjoy all by yourself.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
MOUNT GONGZILIAO and GONGZILIAO FORT (槓子寮山/槓子寮砲臺)
The hills around Keelung are home to numerous old defensive structures left over from various periods in Taiwan's history. The remains found here at Gongziliao Fort are the most extensive and well preserved out there.
SOUTH GUANYIN MOUNTAIN (南觀音山)
This enjoyable loop trail in Taichung will take you to number 42 of Taiwan's list of 100 Minor Peaks. It is well-known in Taiwan's hiking circles for the odd sight of a giant golden hand at the summit.
FIREFLY SPOTTING at YUANJUE WATERFALL (圓覺瀑布螢火蟲)
If you check online for the best places to see fireflies in Taipei, then one of the locations that appears in many of the lists is Dagouxi Waterfront Park. In fact, this is a little misleading since - while the walk does start there - you need to head a little further into the dark to spot any fireflies.
FIREFLIES at JINTONG COAL MEMORIAL PARK (菁桐煤礦紀念公園螢火蟲)
The ruins of the old Jingtong Coal Mine make for a unique backdrop to Taiwan's April firefly viewing season.
LONGGUOMAI FOREST TRAIL (龍過脈森林步道)
Connecting the two rural towns of Linnei and Pingding, Longguomai Forest Trail is a scenic wander through some of Yunlin’s hillier landscapes. Along the way visitors can expect to see monkeys and a whole lot of birdlife.
HENGCHUN CITY WALLS (恆春縣城)
The old town of Hengchun is one great alternative to Kenting, and the historic city walls provide visitors with the perfect ‘no plan’ day out. Just lace up your shoes and start walking, letting your interest and stomach divert you as necessary.
TAITUNG FOREST PARK (臺東森林公園)
Hemmed in between the broad expanse of Beinan River and the city of Taitung sits the quiet oasis of Taitung Forest Park. Its leafy lanes and tranquil wetlands make for a great half day retreat.
TAITUNG’S CARP HILL ( 臺東鯉魚山)
Carp Hill is perhaps the most prominent geological feature in Taitung City, and if you're visiting Taitung then climbing it is a great way to see the city from another angle.
AUTUMN COLOURS at GONGBEI TEMPLE (拱北殿賞楓行)
An easy wander in New Taipei's Xizhi District. Come in November or December to enjoy the bright red leaves.
MAOSING MAIN TRAIL (茂興步道主線)
Of the two trails accessible from Taipingshan's iconic bong bong train, Maosing Main Trail is both the longer and flatter option. It follows the course of the old tracks for a gentle 1km wander through grand forest scenery.
MAOSING LOOP TRAIL (茂興懷舊步道環線)
Riding the bright yellow bong bong train is one of Taipingshan's most memorable experiences. The twenty minute journey takes you to Maosing Station where you have the choice of two short trails to explore.
JANCING HISTORIC TRAIL (見晴懷古步道)
Taipingshan's Jancing Historic Trail is probably one of the most instantly recognisable trails that Taiwan has to offer, and for good reason. This easy stroll has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike for its mixture of stunning natural scenery and historical significance.
SHUISHANG WATERFALL and SESHUI FOREST TRAIL (水上瀑布/澀水森林步道)
Nantou's Yuchi District is best known for being the home of Sun Moon Lake, but that's far from the only beauty spot it boasts. This short and easy trail might not feature in the guidebooks, but it should do. Peaceful and pretty–the perfect place to pass an afternoon.
SANQING TEMPLE FOREST TRAIL EASTERN LOOP (三清宮森林步道東線)
This short loop on the outskirts of Changhua City can be walked on its own or paired up with the western loop for a slightly longer adventure.
Taiwan Trails and Tales 