The Qingtiangang plateau is a lava terrace formed by the eruption of Zhugao Mountain and Mt. Zhuzi centuries ago.
The trail follows a segment of the historic 'Fish Road,' used by fishermen in the Qing Dynasty to carry fresh catch from Jinshan to markets in Shilin.
The soil in the Lengshuikeng area contains iron sulfides, which give the local mineral springs a distinct milky, translucent appearance.
Qingtiangang serves as a habitat for free-roaming cattle, descendents of animals brought to the area during the Japanese colonial period.
The terrain is part of the Datun Volcano Group, an area of ongoing geothermal activity rather than a dormant geological site.
The Lengshuikeng-Qingtiangang Trail is a high-altitude hiking route located within Yangmingshan National Park, connecting two major geothermal and volcanic landscapes. The trail spans approximately 2.4 kilometers and features a mix of forest paths and open grasslands. It is characterized by the Jinbaoli Trail section, which served as a historical transport route for sulfur and fish. Hikers encounter the Jingshan Suspension Bridge shortly after departing the Lengshuikeng trailhead. The path ascends toward the Qingtiangang Meadow, a plateau formed by volcanic activity that is now frequently grazed by roaming cattle. The area is marked by significant volcanic sediment and remnants of past mining activities. Hikers can observe a distinct transition from humid subtropical forest to exposed, wind-swept volcanic meadows.
The Jingshan Suspension Bridge offers a framed view of the lush, forested valley against the volcanic peaks.
Bring a windbreaker even in summer, as the plateau is highly exposed and prone to sudden temperature drops.
Stay on the wooden walkways, especially when cattle are grazing, to avoid disturbing the local wildlife.
Carry adequate water, as there are limited facilities along the actual hiking path between the two trailheads.
Attempting the hike during heavy fog or typhoons, as the high-altitude trails become slippery and visibility drops to near zero.
Trail access may be restricted during severe weather alerts or typhoons; check park service advisories before departure.
Maintain a safe distance from grazing cattle; do not feed or provoke them.
