Have you ever seen the colorful forest along Taichung’s Dakeng Trail No. 2? Now’s the perfect time to plan a hiking adventure! With 14 trails, the Dakeng trail system offers diverse landscapes, each worth exploring! The Taichung City Government’s Tourism and Travel Bureau recommends visiting this month to discover the hidden beauty of the “Colorful Forest Trail”—Trail No. 2. Simply head to the Dakeng Trail No. 2 parking lot, where an information board at the trailhead provides details about the trail. Set off with a relaxed mind and embrace the colorful scenes of the acacia boardwalks that blend with nature and the colorful scenery in the forest!

Tourism Bureau Director Chen Mei-hsiu recommends wrapping up the Chinese New Year holiday with a fat-burning hike—Dakeng Trail No. 2 is the perfect choice for enjoying a visual spectacle! The trail showcases nature’s artistry, with the azure sky as a canvas for the fiery red of Formosan sweet gum, the warm orange of soapberry trees, and the glossy green of Lithocarpus konishii. These colors are beautifully complemented by the white of cogongrass, silvergrass, and the vibrant hues of lantana blossoms, creating a limitless, stunning natural masterpiece. Interpretive signs along the way introduce iconic plant species, offering deeper insights into their unique features. A hike on Trail No. 2 is like stepping into a colorful outdoor classroom, where you can enjoy both an enriching learning experience and a feast for the senses.

The Tourism and Travel Bureau highlights that Trail No. 2 features a distinctive landmark—a colorful bamboo structure in the shape of “2”—which harmonizes with the surrounding landscape and the lush bamboo forest at the trailhead. Nearby, bamboo-crafted benches offer a spot to rest before setting off on the acacia boardwalks that make up most of the trail. Fortunately, several rest platforms are available along the way to help hikers relieve any muscle fatigue. Following the mountain ridge for much of its path, the trail provides stunning panoramic views, while certain shaded sections offer a refreshing escape from the sun. With its varied scenery and scenic viewpoints overlooking the beautiful mountain landscapes, Trail No. 2 is an ideal spot for capturing stunning photos at any moment.

According to the Taichung City Scenic Area Administration Office, Dakeng Trail No. 2 stretches 1,200 meters, typically taking about 1.5 hours to complete. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace with rest stops along the way, planning for a 2.5-hour visit is recommended. Besides driving, visitors can opt for the 66V tour bus, which runs frequently on weekends with up to 37 round-trip services, ensuring easy access. This February, let us discover the beauty of the “Colorful Forest Trail”—Dakeng Trail No. 2!