aeeble

「Three Turtles Bathing in Water」is one of the most representative scenic attractions in the Baling area. The Dahan Creek is arguably the most important river in Taoyuan City. The confluence and merging of Yufeng Creek and Sanguang Creek from upstream mountainous regions in the upper reaches of Dahan Creek forms this river. Three distinct tributaries converge at this site, creating a winding and meandering course. Over time, erosion and scouring by water have formed a complex interplay between river valleys and mountain ridges. Looking from a distant hill trail down into the valley, the three ridges resemble the heads of turtles, with their elongated backbones resembling turtle shells. This unique landscape known as "Three Turtles Bathing in Water" is a must-visit attraction for travelers heading to Baling area and one of the most iconic sights in Lala Mountain. The name "Three Turtles Bathing in Water" originally comes from indigenous myths and legends. This geological feature forms due to the erosion and weathering of mountain terrain by river flows, creating intersecting valleys and towering cliffs. This gathering of streams and rivers adds a mysterious aura to the Baling region. To promote this natural beauty, the Taoyuan City Government has specifically constructed a viewing platform. Located at the 5.2km point of the Lala Mountain Scenic Area's main road (Road 116L), the wooden observation deck sits on a cliff edge at an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters. This is a newly developed attraction situated along the main artery of the Lala Mountain Scenic Area—Road 116L. Since its inauguration in 103th year of the Republic of China (2014), it allows visitors to follow a scenic loop up the mountain, enjoying picturesque trails along the way. The viewing platform is ideal for parking and taking in the breathtaking, seemingly crafted landscape, serving both as a rest stop and the best vantage point for observing the "Three Turtles Bathing in Water" natural marvel. The platform is designed with two distinct levels, expanding the vistas for unobstructed viewing. The upper level consists of a stone surface platform serving as parking and resting space for visitors, while the lower level offers a wide wooden platform with open-air designs that let visitors experience relaxing mountain ambiance. The most captivating view from the observation deck is the unique meandering valley known as "Three Turtles Bathing in Water," unique to the Lala Mountain. On clear days, visitors may even witness the beautiful sight of distant mountain peaks shrouded in thin mist. From this elevated vantage point, beyond the breathtaking mountain views, one can also spot both the old and new Baling Bridges, with scattered hillside homes dotted across the landscape. This location offers not only a sense of tranquility but also an awareness of human scale within nature's vastness. Additionally, visitors can explore the "Lala Mountain Baling Old Trail," where the landscape offers alternative perspectives on the "Three Turtles Bathing in Water" natural beauty. Starting from the Lala Mountain Ecological Park, the winding path connects through the Butterfly Museum, Stag Beetle Museum, and the secluded Yujing Trail. Here, visitors can behold the mountain-water paintings of nature's artistic masterpieces, deeply admiring the wonders of the natural world.