You don't need to travel to the remote mountains of central Taiwan to experience the magic of seeing fireflies lighting up the evening forest. Hushan has a trail within walking distance of the MRT which is adapted for firefly viewing in peak season. If you visit Taiwan in April or May, you should definitely set aside an evening to step into this enchanting realm of fireflies, night birds and noisy frogs.
easy hikes in Taiwan
GUI SHAN MOUNTAINTOP LOOP (龜山山頂小O型縱走)
A leisurely loop walk which starts out from a very 'Taiwan-feeling' village community. You'll pass university buildings, small ponds and a temple as well as meander through allotments and a graveyard. On clear days, there are views of layered hills out towards Sanxia and beyond from the easternmost point of the walk.
YINGGE ROCK TRAIL (鶯歌石登山步道)
A short and sweet loop out of Yingge's ceramics neighbourhood. Sights on this walk include views over Sanxia, shrines in naturally hollowed out caves and a close-up view of the eponymous Yingge Rock, (a large bird-shaped stone which was said to have emitted toxic vapours until it was cannoned by Koxinga'a army).
SKIRTING THE ELEPHANT – NANGANG TRAIL / 95 PEAK / MUZHI SHAN / TIAOMI OLD TRAIL (南港步道 / 九五峰 / 拇指山 / 糶米古道)
A northeast to southwest route over the Nangang mountain range. This walk takes in many temples and some wonderful views of the city.
QINGTIANGANG CIRCULAR TRAIL (擎天崗環形步道)
A gentle and incredibly scenic circular route around the famous, cow-grazed grasslands of Qingtiangang in Yangmingshan National Park. This trail is accessible by public transport and should be ok for anyone who can handle some steps and an uneven walking surface. Make sure to come on a clear day, (when you can see Qixing Mountain peak from the city), in order to enjoy the views at their best.
JUANSI WATERFALL TRAIL to LENGSHUIKENG (絹絲瀑布/冷水坑)
A gentle and relaxing stroll beside a stream with plenty to enjoy. This walk will take you past a couple of historical remains, a charming waterfall, around a couple of interesting ponds, over Jingshan suspension bridge and finishes at Lengshuikeng Visitor Centre.
SANDIAOLING WATERFALL TRAIL (三貂嶺瀑布步)
This trail is one of the most popular day hikes in northern Taiwan, and for good reason. You'll enjoy waterfalls, a shaded walk by a stream and a dash of adventure...and all easily accessible using public transport.
FENG QI SUNSET TRAIL (鳳崎落日步道)
An easy and leisurely afternoon walk taking in military relics. Bring your significant other and aim to finish the walk around sundown so that you can watch the sunset together as you gaze out over the Taiwan Strait.
DRAGON TRAIL TO MAOKONG GONDOLA VIA ZHANGSHAN TEMPLE (飛龍步道/政大後山登山步道/樟山寺/貓空站)
A not-too-difficult loop walk where the downwards part of the loop can be done on the Maokong gondola. The highlight of this walk for me was the free tea I enjoyed at Zhangshan Temple.
QIXING SHAN ROUND MOUNTAIN TRAIL (環七星山人車分道)
This circular route is an excellent way to experience some of Yangmingshan Park's top attractions. Start early and make a day of it to get the most out of this varied walk.
HUTOUSHAN PARK WALK (虎頭山公園)
A gentle and shaded forest park, walk - come here to get a feel for how the locals like to spend family weekends together.
CAOLING HISTORIC TRAIL (草嶺古道)
This historic and very accessible trail will take you over the hills from Dali to Fulong next to an inviting river stream. Better yet, you can look forward to a refreshing swim once you have reached your destination.
WAI WA ZI SHAN TO HONGLUDI NANSHAN FUDE TEMPLE (外挖子山步道-烘爐地南山福德宮)
A ridge trail which skirts the southern edge of Taipei and takes in a couple of notable temples along the way.
QILONGLING HIKING TRAIL HALF LOOP (青龍嶺登山步道)
For those who like to enjoy a range of exercise in one adventure, head to the hills of Shulin District where you can enjoy a short, brisk walk before a refreshing swim (and exercise your vocal chords with a spot of mountain karaoke).
YINHE CAVE and WATERFALL to MAOKONG via EJIAOGE (銀河洞瀑布 / 鵝角格山 / 貓空)
A charming and easily accessible walk which takes in a temple behind a waterfall and panoramic views from Taipei's Maokong gondola. With a couple of route options, this walk is suitable for confident beginners and anyone with more experience.
Taiwan Trails and Tales 