The Jinshuiying Historical Trail (浸水營古道) has been designated as a National Trail belongs to the eastern section of the Jinshuiying Ancient Road and crosses two regions; Pingtung County and Taitung County in Taiwan’s south. This linear trail is approximately 16km in length and can be accessed from trailheads in either county. Rich in natural ecology, with a little luck, hikers can spot pangolins, monkeys, endemic birds as well as a variety of rare plants species. This hiking experience also offers a unique experience with many historical sites, ruins and folklore dating back hundreds of years.
The Jinshuiying Historical Trail (浸水營古道) is located in the middle and low altitude broad-leaved forests in southern Taiwan. Fun fact: It is the lowest ancient trail among all the ancient trails that cross the Central Mountains.
The Jinshuiying National Trail is well-trodden and has been a frequented trail for centuries. In fact, this trail was a traditional trading route for local indigenous peoples, but has been used by the Japanese, foreign missionaries, officers and soldiers of the Qing Dynasty and other generations of people for hundreds of years.
Hiking the Jinshuiying Historic Trail (浸水營古道)
While this trail isn’t particularly difficult or technical, hikers will need to have a good foundation of fitness and some hiking experience. The trail surface is mostly well-maintained and includes a mix of compact soil as well as wood and stone steps. Long portions of the trail is shaded by the broad-leaved forest and offers hikers plenty of beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy mountain views, rich forest environments and even a beautiful suspension bridge. To join a hike along this trail, hikers must first apply for a mountain entry permit. The application process is a combination of both an online application and on-site application. If you want to apply on-site, you must apply to the Guichong Police Station and Fangliao Branch (Pingdong County).
There is never a bad time to hike this beautiful trail. In the spring, local flowers are in full bloom and add a lovely fragrance along the trail. While every winter, there is a chance to see tens of thousands of purple monarch butterflies, which congregate along the eastern end of the trail. Due to the humid climate and unique ecological environment, it has become an important habitat for breeding wild animals and plants. We ask our guests to be respectful to the environment and to any animals they may encounter.
