Hike Elephant Mountain, Taipei

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.