Guizikeng Hiking Trail, Datun Mountain Range

Located in Beitou, Taipei City, this lush green valley, spanning tens of thousands of pings, was once a mining site playfully dubbed the "Ghost Pit" due to excessive kaolin extraction and subsequent ecological imbalance. Today, after years of rehabilitation and planning, Guizikeng Park has been transformed into a diverse recreational area, combining unique geological landscapes, soil and water conservation education, hiking trails, and a free campground. It serves as the starting point of Taipei City's first mountain trail and an ideal retreat from urban hustle to connect with nature. **Guizikeng Campground** Guizikeng Park offers free camping facilities (application required as per regulations), making it a popular choice for group activities and family outings. The park features two main campsites: "Platform 100" and "Platform 110". "Platform 100" is an RV camping area equipped with a semi-circular canopy-covered activity plaza. In addition to offering morning activities for community residents on weekdays, it is an ideal venue for groups to host outdoor events, picnics, or barbecues. The spacious grounds are also suitable for orienteering, stargazing, and even searching for fireflies during specific seasons. **Soil and Water Conservation Education Area** The park boasts Taipei City's oldest "Wuzhishan Formation" physical observation area. The exposed rock face clearly displays the striking contrast between the upper layer (igneous rock formed by the eruption of the Datun volcanic group 800,000 years ago) and the lower layer (folded rock layers created by orogenic movements), containing rich kaolin clay and quartz sand. Furthermore, the rehabilitated Shuimokeng Stream within the park utilizes a stepped "weir and drop structure" engineering method, designed to slow water flow, reduce erosion, and deposit sediment, serving as a prime example of soil and water conservation engineering. For groups of 20 or more interested in observing soil and water conservation, volunteer guided tours can be requested from the Construction Department. **Nature's Embrace: Guizikeng Hiking Trail** Guizikeng Hiking Trail is the first mountain trail planned by the Taipei City Government. The trail connects to Fuxinggang MRT Station, offering highly convenient transportation. As soon as you enter the trail, the gurgling stream accompanies you, and lush greenery fills your sight, as if stepping into a dense forest, with every breath full of phytoncides. Along the way, you'll pass the flat "Irrigation Canal Trail," where the flowing water accompanies you, making your steps feel light. As you gradually ascend, the mountain path along the ridge remains quite gentle, and the views along the way progressively widen. Don't miss the scenic pavilion along the path; it's the best spot for panoramic views. Nearby, you'll see the lush green Guandu Plain, and in the distance, you can admire the Tamsui River, Shezi Island, Beitou's landscape, and even Chinese Culture University nestled among the mountains. The scenery is truly refreshing.