Lantan Back Mountain Trail

The Lantan Back Mountain Trail is located on the east side of Lantan Reservoir, adjacent to the Lantan Campus of National Chiayi University. The trail's elevation ranges from 80 to 150 meters, with the main route approximately 3 kilometers long. Although the overall height isn't great, the terrain is incredibly varied, featuring gentle original dirt paths, gravel trails, and even wooden boardwalks and stone steps that ascend like a 'stairway to heaven' with 156 steps. There are pavilions for resting, streams to listen to, and a romantic wonderland of mahogany trees. The trail is lush with foliage, and the sounds of birdsong are constant, making for a pleasant and refreshing walk—an excellent spot for a forest bath. Along the trail, you will pass through Shanzeitou Mountain (elevation 141m) and Hongmaopi Mountain (elevation 150m). Hongmaopi Mountain is even listed as one of Taiwan's 'Little Hundred Peaks,' allowing you to experience the thrill of conquering a peak without a long journey. The entire trail can be completed within 2 hours, making it ideal for the general public looking for exercise and recreation, as well as for beginner hikers to practice. Orange-red mileage markers are placed every 50m along the Lantan Back Mountain Trail, noting the latitude and longitude to help hikers stay on track. There are also interpretive signs for common flora and fauna. The site has deliberately preserved old place names passed down by early hikers, such as 'Xinleyuan' (New Paradise), 'Hudih' (Lake Bottom), 'Xiaogongyuan' (Small Park), 'Sunliao' (Bamboo Shoot Hut), and 'Houhuayuan' (Back Garden). For instance, 'Hudih,' according to elders, was named because the trail's poor drainage in earlier times often led to prolonged water accumulation after summer rains, making the spot resemble a small lake to hikers. 'Sunliao' came about because the area surrounding that section of the trail had dense bamboo groves, and local residents built simple sheds nearby to facilitate bamboo shoot collection. Many interesting place name origins are hidden within the mountains and forests, waiting for hikers to explore.