One-Day Hike on the North Route of the Tamlane Historic Trail | Caoling Historic Trail + Jinzibei Historic Trail

The two most essential trails on the northern route of the Tamlane Historic Trail—the Caoling Historic Trail and the Jinzibei Historic Trail—will allow you to follow in the footsteps of Taiwan General Liu Mingdeng and embark on this historic mountain trail. A single day's hike combines both sections, with a stop in Shuangxi Old Street for lunch. The approximately 13-kilometer, smooth and easy hike is suitable for everyone.

-Tamlane Historic Trail Introduction-

The Tamlane Historic Trail is divided into three routes: the North, Middle, and South. The North is the oldest and most documented section, serving as both a military defense route and a key transportation route. Historically, it can be further divided into the "Canguangliao Historic Trail," the "Yang Tingli Historic Trail," and the "Rulan Main Trail." The Caoling Historic Trail forms part of the "Rulan Main Trail," starting in Ruifang, passing the Jinzibei Historic Trail, then passing Mudan and Shuangxi, before finally entering Dali, Yilan.

- Introduction to Danlan Historic Trail Scenic Spots -

▲ Caoling Historic Trail | Difficulty ★ |
The Caoling Historic Trail was originally a mountain trail used by the plains aborigines for hunting. It forms the last mile before entering Lanzhou. It runs from Wangyuankeng in present-day Gongliao District to the Dali Mountains in Yilan. It is currently the most representative hiking trail in the Northeast Coast National Scenic Area.

▲ Xiongzhen Manyan Monument & Tiger Monument
There are two monuments at the end of the Caoling Historic Trail. Because the Northeast Coast is hit hard by the northeast monsoon after the onset of autumn and winter, even Liu Mingdeng, then Taiwan's general, was blocked by strong winds when passing through. Therefore, the two monuments, the "Tiger Monument" and the "Heroic Manyan Monument," were specially designed to symbolize "clouds follow the dragon, wind follows the tiger," to ward off the mountain demons and monsters in the area.

▲ Jinzibei Historic Trail | Difficulty ★★ |
The Jinzibei Historic Trail is approximately 5 kilometers long, with a drop of approximately 350 meters between its highest and lowest points. It was once the main route across Sandiaoling Mountain to Yilan. After its construction, the trail was transformed into a smooth, easy-to-walk stone stairway, making it suitable for hiking. Visitors can also see numerous historical sites and gaze at the towering mountains of the northeast corner.

▲ Shuangxi Old Street

Shuangxi, located along the Danlan Historic Trail, is a valley formed by two alluvial rivers. Its fertile land and abundant resources gradually brought it to life. Over time, it has become a vibrant market street, home to a variety of shops, including Chinese medicine shops, rice shops, and laundries, brimming with nostalgic charm. In its heyday, Shuangxi Old Street was even nicknamed "Shuangxi Ximending."