Hiking Elephant Mountain

At the trail head

Not far from the hustle and bustle of downtown Taipei, just to the east of the city, lies Xiangshan, or Elephant Mountain. Apparently one of the points of the mountain looks like an elephant head, though it is hard to make out with the densely covered jungle-like forest covering it like a soft blanket.

Taking the MRT to the end of the Red Line, the walk is just a few minutes to the trail head. The trail is 1000 steps up. It was a P-day, and many of the senior missionaries gathered to enjoy this very popular hike.

Besides being very beautiful, peaceful and well-marked, the hike is particularly popular because of the exquisite birds-eye panoramic view of Taipei, with its crowning jewel of Taipei 101 rising distinctively in the distance, (101 floors high). 

Fall is officially here, and with temperatures in the upper 70's, a cool breeze, and no rain, it was a perfect day for an adventure. 

There are three viewing platforms along the way up. Each has amazing views of the city.

Large outcroppings of boulders make an excellent stage for a photo-op at the second viewing area. People patiently wait in a line up beside the boulders for their turn to scramble up the rock and get some good poses with the Taipei 101.

The rest of the group went on ahead while I waited my turn. It was Saturday, with plenty of young people making the climb to catch a photo. 

The trail wasn't too hard, but there are spots to sit and rest along the way for the weary hiker. Lots of friendly people surrounded us, all making their way to the same destination - the pinnacle of the trail. With it's very own "great and spacious building" in the background, I couldn't help but think of the beautiful path we walk in this life with its every enticing distractions that can sometimes engulf us. President Nelson has invited us all to "keep on the covenant path." 

The reward is definitely worth the journey in life, no matter how long or hard it may seem. And when you are surrounded by good friends of solid faith who also consecrate their lives to the work of the Lord, the blessings are multiplied. 

Xiangshan - Elephant Mountain, with Taipei 101 in the distance.

The amazing skyline of Taipei.