Caoling Historic Trail
草嶺古道
A section of the Qing-era Danlan Historic Trail that crosses the mountain ridge between Yilan and New Taipei. In autumn, pampas grass ripples at the pass, and Turtle Island is visible in the distance.
The Caoling Historic Trail is a section of the Qing-era Danlan Historic Trail. It connects Yuanwangkeng in Gongliao, New Taipei, with Dali in Toucheng, Yilan, and runs about 8.5 km. It is one of Taiwan's most famous historic trails. Along the way are the Tiger Character Stele and Xiongzhen Manyan Stele erected by Liu Mingdeng during the Qing dynasty, as well as a Tudigong shrine. From October to December, the grassland at the pass is covered in blooming pampas grass. Looking back, you can see the Pacific Ocean and Turtle Island. The trail is free. Most hikers go from Gongliao toward Dali, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. The end point at Dali has Tiangong Temple and Dali Station on the Taiwan Railway. Autumn and winter bring strong winds, so bring a windproof jacket.
Opening hours
All day (daytime recommended)
Nearby sights
- Honeymoon Bay
- Beiguan Tidal Park
- Wai'ao Beach
- Guishan Island
- Lanyang Museum
- Toucheng Old Street
- Jiaoxi Hot Springs
- Matcha Mountain (Shengmu Mountain Villa)