Miantian shan trail offers an easy to follow path over some of Yangmingshan National Park's western peaks. Go immediately after heavy rain in order to catch sight of the elusive xiang tian crater lake.
moderate hike
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.
XIN SHAN to DREAM LAKE and KEZILIN RIVER POOL (新山/夢湖/柯子林天然游泳池)
Excitement, adventure, great views, a hidden lake and a wild swimming pool just outside of Taipei. This is a great loop walk with all sorts of rewards for those who attempt it in the warmer months.
ELEPHANT MOUNTAIN, THUMB MOUNTAIN AND 95 PEAK ON THE NANGANG TRAIL (南港山佈道: 象山 / 拇指山 / 九五峰)
Escape the hoards of tourists taking selfies at that most famous of Taipei's scenic views by exploring beyond elephant mountain. This easy route takes you higher to muzhi mountain and 95 peak, all the while offering great vantage points and lots of hidden shrines to discover.
LIDONG SHAN AND TAPUNG CASTLE VIA DAHUN SHAN (大混山/李棟山)
A many-layered mountain forest trail leads up to an old fortress and a slice of Taiwan's history.
XIAOCUKENG ANCIENT TRAIL TO SHIMEN HILL (小粗坑古道/石門山)
A moderate afternoon hike up an old cattle path with a minor peak at the top.
ERGE SHAN VIA NANBANGLIAO LOOP (二格山，南邦寮山)
This short loop at the edge of civilisation offers a quick getaway from the city.
ST. MARIAN’S HIKING TRAIL (聖母山步道)
St. Marian's Hiking Trail, also known more recently as Matcha Mountain is a well known trail in Yilan's Jiaoxi District. It's a big climb with views that are guaranteed to make you glad you made the effort.
QIXING SHAN (七星山)
An exciting hike through the uplands of Yangmingshan National Park with the promise of a hotspring soak for your feet at the end.
CUEI LAKE AND NEIGOU SHAN TRAIL (翠湖/內溝山步道)
Fun scramble through a hidden valley just to the east of Taipei.