Ma'anabong Mountain, located on the border of Dahu and Tai'an townships, stands at an elevation of 1,406 meters. The mountain is shrouded in mist and clouds throughout the year, creating a magnificent sea of clouds that is a rare sight. The mountain is particularly famous for its autumn foliage, especially at the Ancient Battlefield Memorial, which is one of the most renowned spots in Taiwan to admire the maple leaves. Every autumn and winter, the mountain is ablaze with vibrant red and orange hues, attracting a steady stream of visitors. It is often paired with the Ouwang Forest Recreation Area, earning it the reputation of "North Ma (Ma'anabong) and South Ao (Ouwang)".
There are three trails to choose from to ascend Ma'anabong Mountain: the Dongxing Tianranhu Line, the Dongxing Shanghu Line, and the Dongxing Zhuhu Line.
The Dongxing Tianranhu Line starts at the trailhead near Dongxing, passes through Tianran Lake, a stand of Chinese Parasol trees, and a large stone wall, before reaching the summit of Ma'anabong Mountain. Along this route, visitors can stop by a strawberry garden, usually from December to February, to pick fresh strawberries. The area around Tianran Lake features a lush forest of Chinese Parasol trees.
The Dongxing Zhuhu Line begins at Changqiao Shiziting (trailhead), passes through a fork in the road, the Ancient Battlefield Memorial, Shimen, and finally reaches the summit of Ma'anabong Mountain. The most scenic section for autumn foliage is between Shimen and the Ancient Battlefield Memorial. The trail winds through a bamboo forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the primitive forest along the Zhuhu Line, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The Ancient Battlefield Memorial and Shimen are historical sites that commemorate the bravery of the Atayal people in their resistance against Japanese colonial rule. From the summit, visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the Xue Shan and Daba Mountains, and on a clear day, see the rolling hills and valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see.