The trail was formerly a firebreak line that has been repurposed for tourism and mountain recreation.
The route features multiple lookout points, but the fourth platform is widely cited by local hikers as having the most unobstructed coastal perspective.
The vegetation includes significant patches of maple, attracting visitors primarily between late autumn and early winter.
The vantage point is strategically positioned to overlook the grid-like agricultural and residential planning of Ji’an Township.
Fenglin Trail’s Fourth Lookout is a prominent vantage point located on the eastern slopes of the Central Mountain Range in Ji’an Township. It provides a panoramic view of the Hualien Plain, the Pacific Ocean, and the urban layout of Hualien City below. The trail is paved and ascends through a forested area previously planted with maple trees, which turn vibrant colors during the cooler months. The fourth lookout is specifically engineered as a platform to minimize obstructions, offering an expansive line of sight toward the coastline. The area is part of a local recreational corridor frequented by residents for exercise and photography. Access to the fourth lookout requires navigating the winding path that connects a series of viewing platforms along the hillside.
The edge of the fourth lookout platform, pointing directly toward the intersection of Hualien City and the Pacific horizon.
Bring a light jacket as the elevation gain often results in cooler temperatures and stronger breezes than in the valley.
Use trekking poles if you plan to walk the full length of the trail, as the incline is consistent.
Visit during the early morning to catch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.
Do not attempt the trail during heavy rain or typhoon alerts due to the risk of landslides on the steep hillside.
Wear sturdy walking shoes; remain on paved paths to protect local vegetation.
