Jinmianshan Trail — Attraction in Taipei

Very fun hike with many large boulders you have to climb over. Duration was around 1 hour 40 min. Not very long hike but a little steep all throughout with the whole track made from stones hence not suitable for damp or rainy days and wear trainers with decent grip. Shading from trees is mainly present at the beginning of the hike, the other portions you're left pretty exposed to the sun, hence would suggest starting 8:00am or before or in the late afternoon. Scenery is ok, you get a different view of the city and some interesting looking vegetation but I would think its main assets are easy to access location, fun with a little boulder climbing, short duration with little planning needed. There's parking space at the entrance (內湖清代採石場) or you can take the mrt to 劍南路站 then walk or take...

Jinmian Mountain, which literally means "Gold Face Mountain," is an easily accessible hiking trail from Taipei. The trailhead is about a 10-minute walk from the Xihu MRT Station (Brown Line). It gets crowded during the weekends, especially in good weather. The hill is about 800 feet above sea level. The hike is fairly strenuous, but the reward is spectacular views of Taipei city on a clear day. You may also get to see planes landing and taking off at Songshan airport. You can take the loop trail if you don't wish to backtrack. Do wear sensible walking or hiking shoes. There are a few rest stops along the way for you to recharge. Bring water and a light snack. The hike can take 2 to 3 hours depending on how often you stop to admire...

About one hour round trip at a reasonable pace with several short breaks. Anyone in reasonably good cardio shape with strong/confident knees and ankles can do this hike, but note you’re constantly ascending between a 30 and 60 degree grade with several short sections of rope-assisted bouldering. The views are stunning - turn around frequently on the way up. Chinese-only signage is a bit confusing with several turnoffs from the loop trail so save the map in advance on Google maps. Bring water, no services. Only about a dozen people on the trail from 8:30-9:30am on the Wednesday of New Year’s week, though more started arriving as I was leaving. Delicious breakfast restaurant 頂好美而美早餐店 at the bottom of the trail on...