Elephant Mountain Trailhead - Search Nearby - Added by Sachith Siriwardane
Great, relatively short hike that provides beautiful views of the Taipei skyline
Getting There:
The trailhead is super accessible by public transportation, or via Taxi. While the entrance isn't extremely well marked, if you put "Elephant Mountain Hiking Trail" into google maps, or ask any local you should be able to find the trailhead relatively easily. It's kind of tucked away behind some alleys, but I had no problem finding it.
The Hike:
The hike is a series of steps that winds up elephant mountain. Along the way, there will be several view points that are great places to take a break. Depending on your pace, after 15-30 minutes you will see a bunch of large rocks. This is a great place to just hang out, and admire the skyline. If you're into photography, this is a great place to take pictures because you can get over the tree line.
A little bit passed the rocks, you'll see a path that veers off to the left. This leads to a viewpoint that gives the best view of the all of Taipei with Taipei 101.
What I Wish I Knew:
- If you go in the summer bring water. It's so muggy and hot, and although the hike isn't long, you're going to want to hang out there so water is a must.
- People wait in line to go up on the boulders. Just because someone is there doesn't mean you can't get a turn.
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Reviews
Overall rating:
Great view
Definitely will go visit again
Very Steep Stairs Hiking
If you love Taipei 101 views, this is a perfect spot. Also, professional photographers like to take night views and New York Taipei 101 fireworks photos here. It’s a short hike (1hr) but very steep as there are many stairs.. if you like more nature this is probably not a right place for you. Personally, I like to see different views but this hike is all about Taipei 101.
Best way to see the Taipei skyline
Elephant Mountain offers a quick nature escape from the city with some of the best views of the Taipei skyline and particularly the impressive Taipei 101 (formerly the tallest building in the world). This is a great short hike but you can also connect to a larger network of trails if you want to make it a day trip. When we did this hike in January, the skies were unusually hazy which just makes me want to go back the next time I'm in Taiwan when it's better weather (and after seeing this post, I'd love to go at night!). If you're visiting Taipei, you should add this quick hike to the bucket list.
