Tree No. 5 is estimated to be over 2,800 years old, making it the oldest in the grove.
The grove was formerly classified as a nature reserve before transitioning to a National Forest Recreation Area in 2023.
Red cypresses (Chamaecyparis formosensis) in this region are noted for their high oil content, which provides natural resistance to decay.
The area serves as a critical watershed habitat for the Dahan River basin.
The forest structure is dominated by warm-temperate evergreen broad-leaved trees mixed with ancient conifers.
Some trees in the grove exceed 50 meters in height with trunk circumferences requiring over a dozen people to link hands around them.
Lala Mountain Giant Tree Grove features one of the largest concentrations of ancient red cypress trees in Taiwan. The area contains 24 designated giant trees, ranging in age from 500 to over 2,800 years old. The walking trail network is a loop system that connects these specific specimens via wooden boardwalks and gravel paths. The site is situated within the Lala Mountain National Forest Recreation Area at an elevation between 1,500 and 2,100 meters. The temperate mountain climate supports a diverse ecosystem including ferns, mosses, and indigenous bird species. The trail maintains a relatively gentle grade, making the giant trees accessible to most hikers. The area is managed by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency.
The viewing platform at Giant Tree No. 24, which offers a clear perspective of the tree's massive scale against the forest canopy.
Wear layers, as the high-altitude temperature drops significantly compared to the surrounding lowlands.
Bring a raincoat or windbreaker, as the mountain area frequently experiences misty conditions and afternoon showers.
Stay on the wooden boardwalks to protect the shallow root systems of the giant trees.
Attempting the full loop without adequate water or during heavy fog; littering is strictly prohibited and carries fines.
Open daily, but may close temporarily during extreme weather events like typhoons or heavy rain for safety.
Maintain silence to observe forest wildlife, stay strictly on marked paths, and do not touch the bark of the ancient trees.
