Beixia Shan Trail
北霞山步道
Mt. Beixia Trail
Beixia Mountain Trail
About this trail
Follow a tranquil forest trail through towering cypress, cedar, rhododendrons, and bamboo to Beixia Shan, the highest of Alishan's "Three Xia" peaks, surrounded by rich natural beauty.
Trail condition
No hands-on climbing is normally required.
No significant exposed sections or dangerous drop-offs.
Most of the route is identifiable, but some sections may be unclear or have limited, unofficial, or conflicting trail markers. Do not rely on markers alone; basic map or GPX navigation skills are recommended.
Getting there
By Public Transport
Trailhead:
1) Go to Alishan Transport Station
2) Take Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Bus 6739 (員林客運) toward Sun Moon Lake and get off at Zizhong(自忠)
3) Search for “Tefuye Historical Trail” on Google Maps and follow the walking directions.
Important: Bus 6739 operates only once a day in each direction and requires advance reservation.
By Car
Trailhead:
Navigate to “Tefuye Historical Trail” on Google Maps. Limited parking is available nearby.
History & culture
History & Nature
The trail follows part of the historic Tefuye Trail, where old railway sleepers and towering forests preserve the legacy of Alishan's logging era. As the highest of Alishan's "Three Xia" peaks, the route passes through diverse cedar, cypress, and broadleaf forests, making it a peaceful destination for hiking and birdwatching.
Wildlife
The forests around Beixia Shan provide habitat for many of Taiwan's iconic birds, including the Mikado Pheasant, Swinhoe's Pheasant, White-whiskered Laughingthrush, Taiwan Barwing, Flamecrest, and several native flycatchers, tits, and finches, making the trail a rewarding destination for birdwatchers.
Flora
The trail showcases diverse mountain vegetation, including towering Taiwan cedar and cypress, rhododendrons, bamboo, pine forests, ferns, wild orchids, fungi, and seasonal wildflowers. These rich plant communities create a cool, lush landscape that changes beautifully throughout the year.