The QingShuiYan Trail Cluster consists of the Shibawan Historic Trail (0.8 km), Central Ridge Forestation Trail, and Park Connector Trail (3.0 km), forming a 3.9-kilometre O-shaped loop behind QingShuiYan Temple. The trailhead is next to the QingShuiYan Park Performance Plaza, where hikers frequently begin their ascent.
Shibawan once served as the transport route between Shetou and Tianzhong in Changhua and Mingjian in Nantou; hence its alternate name, Salt-Carriers Trail. Soil and wooden steps recreate the historical setting, and nectar plants lining the trail often attract insects and birds.
In the 1950s a government reforestation incentive program led to the planting of the acacia forest found along the Central Ridge Forestation Trail. The undulating, shaded trail links up with the Park Connector Trail via First, Second, and Third Peak Platforms; the final climb to Qingtian Ridge is a steep flight of stairs that presents a real challenge.
Trail length: 3.9 km
Walking time: 2 hours
Facilities: parking (for scooters, cars, and coaches), signposts, QingShuiYan Performance Plaza, viewing platforms, Reforestation Monument, pavilions, fitness equipment, mobile toilets, mileage markers