Elephant Mountain (aka Nangang District Hiking Trail)

Elephant Mountain (aka Nangang District Hiking Trail)

Elephant Mountain (aka Nangang District Hiking Trail)
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Duration: 1-2 hours
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  • Joe
    Bangkok, Thailand4,945 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Awesome hike views
    Elephant Mountain, located in Taipei, Taiwan, is a popular hiking destination renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. This iconic mountain is named for a rock formation resembling an elephant's head. The trail leading to the viewpoint is both challenging and rewarding, attracting locals and tourists alike. Along the way, hikers encounter steep stairs and rugged paths, making the ascent an exhilarating adventure. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing sight, especially during sunset when Taipei's city lights illuminate the landscape. It's a serene escape from the bustling city below, offering a unique blend of nature and urban beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
    Visited November 2022
    Travelled solo
    Written 2 October 2023
  • Roger L
    13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Hard work but worthwhile
    Worthwhile visiting. Not far from Metro station and then steps up to the various levels. It's pretty hard work in the heat but quite a few resting places on the way. Some handrails to help with the journey. You get lots of nice pictures of Taipei 101. Once down it's as easy to walk to 101 rather than go back on the metro.
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 23 October 2023
  • Ineika
    Frankfurt, Germany286 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nothing can beats this view
    If you have time to see just one thing in Taipei the Elephant Mountain is the place to go. The views from there are really impresseive. You can walk on small trails and steps and enjoy the view from different ancles. It‘s worth to go by day or night.
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 25 October 2023
  • Trumpboyer86
    Singapore, Singapore941 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great view of Taipei 101
    - The walk up the trail can be quite tiring on a hot sunny day, do pace yourself. Bring water and snacks as nothing is sold within the trails. - You will need to climb up the rock for the nice pics you see on the internet.
    Visited July 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 30 October 2023
  • Giulio P
    Venice, Italy15 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Breathtaking
    Very pretty hiking trail, a bit tiring because the steps are very steep. You should definitely avoid going in the early afternoon because it will be very hot, the best time is probably the morning. Once you are on top there’s a nice hiking trail that takes you through a few temples. Don’t miss them because they are very beautiful!
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 17 November 2023
  • T-SGlobetrotters
    Preston, United Kingdom3,654 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth the effort for glorious views of Taipei
    The short hike is accessed on a well signposted path by walking through the park from the MRT station. It is quite a stiff climb up steps as you reach the end of the park but the views are worth it. There are a couple of observation points including the summit itself. Worth going later in the day to watch the sunset and the city lights starting to glow but if going at this time, we would suggest arriving an hour or so before twilight as the decks get particularly busy later in the day. Observing the closing daylight and the city lighting up is a popular local pastime.
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 23 November 2023
  • Patty Kanyaporn
    390 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A unique perspective of Taipei
    A fantastic activity for anyone seeking a combination of exercise, scenic views, and a touch of urban adventure. The breathtaking panorama of the city under the night sky is sure to leave you mesmerized, making it a unique and memorable experience. Just remember to come prepared with proper footwear, a light source, and a sense of adventure! On the way back down, stop by for a refreshment of lime touch ice cold dessert make it a perfect resting point. Look for the red elephant sign. เดินขึ้นไปจุดชมวิวที่ Xianshan Trail เสร็จ มาพักใจด้านล่างตรงทางขึ้นแป๊บกับพ่อค้าแซ่บ ขายอายยู ขนมปังช้าง 🐘และน้ำเย็นๆ แค่ลงเนินมาก็เจอเลยจ้า หาไม่ยาก ไม่ลึกลับ ป้ายช้างสีแดง สดใส น้ำส้มโอผสมเปลือกมะนาว ขูดๆโรยลงไป ดีย์
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written 29 February 2024
  • Michael K
    London, United Kingdom544 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A steep climb rewards you with views
    Elephant Mountain is part of the hills surrounding the city. We didn't find out how it got that name. It is a very steep climb to the summit, by a series of steps of varying height and depth, fortunately under the shade of trees. I had to rest frequently on the way up (I am a reasonably fit 70-ear-old). It must have taken 30-40 minutes to ascend, and my Fitbit showed a height of 177m. There are a couple of viewpoints, the main feature of which being Taipei 101. We saw one man climbing the mountain on his hands and feet, backwards! It must be a hard slog on hot days! Refreshments are available at the top.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 8 March 2024
  • Harrison F. Carter
    Auckland, New Zealand12,826 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful to do and see...
    Went up twice in one day. Wanted to see in daylight, which was as good as hoped, and went again at sunset, which was even better as an experience. Loved it at night. The stairs up didn't take too long... 20 minutes at a steady pace with basic fitness.
    Visited March 2024
    Travelled solo
    Written 25 March 2024
  • Listo U
    Quezon City, Philippines321 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Quick Exercise While Vacationing in Taipei
    If you are in Taipei and you have the time to spare to do a quick hike (1.5-2 hrs), going up to the peak of Elephant Mountain is highly recommended. It’s a welcome break from the shopping and eating that comes with vacating. You get to burn off some of the accumulated calories while seeing a different view of the city!
    Visited March 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 26 March 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Palita K
Bangkok, Thailand10 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Family
It’s about 0.5 km walk up the stairs and let me tell you that the view is well worth the walk. Some people climb up the giant rock to take some pictures. There is a danger sign saying you should not climb up but...no one really cares.
Written 9 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

MartinG1984
Bratislava, Slovakia238 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
The mountain offers probably the best views of the Taipei 101 part of the city. There are a lot of stairs, but it is worth it. I recommed to do a loop from the Elephant park all the way to the Yongchunggang park - it should take you 90-120 minutes with all the stops.
Written 10 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

NicolaCammisa
Hong Kong, China69 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019
We went on our fist day, as rain was expected for the rest of our stay.
The walk up is very steep in some of the last sections of the climb. However, it is very doable, unless you suffer from vertigo.
Once on top, you will enjoy a great view of the city with Taipei 101 is the main focal point.
Once on top, walk around as there are a couple of decks with open view and no tourists in front of your lens.
Written 2 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

PaulSiow
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia2,697 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2019
We climbed the many steps up this mountain in the late evening and it was already dark when we reached the top. However, we were rewarded with magnificient night views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding city. The climb was tough and challenging but doable and I'm already in my mid 60s. There was quite a crowd at the top, all jostling for a good viewing spot. Known locally as Xiangshan, this place is very popular.
Written 22 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

T-SGlobetrotters
Preston, UK3,654 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2023 • Couples
The short hike is accessed on a well signposted path by walking through the park from the MRT station. It is quite a stiff climb up steps as you reach the end of the park but the views are worth it. There are a couple of observation points including the summit itself. Worth going later in the day to watch the sunset and the city lights starting to glow but if going at this time, we would suggest arriving an hour or so before twilight as the decks get particularly busy later in the day. Observing the closing daylight and the city lighting up is a popular local pastime.
Written 23 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Alex H
Port St. Mary, UK2,596 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2023 • Couples
My partner and I did this very easy walk up the stairs while visiting Taipei 101 and other buildings/temples in Taipei. The walk is only 184m in ascent although there are lots of stairs to climb up to reach the top. My partner isn’t very fit and this only took us 25 mins so I wouldn’t be too concerned about fitness. The views you get of Taipei 101 and Taipei itself are worth it, so I’d highly recommend fitting this into your Taipei itinerary.
Written 23 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jeffry b
Essendon, Australia13,536 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2020
Getting to Elephant Mountain is easy, just take the MRT Red Line to Xiangshan Station, which is the last stop, and take Exit 2. You will soon find the Elephant Mountain Trail (in Chinese, Xiang Shan means Elephant Mountain). The trail, also known as the Nangang District Hiking Trail, goes for around 1.5 kms (about 5000 feet). The mountain is 183 metres (600 feet) tall. You can get a good view of Taipei 101 from the mountain. Remember to take a drink and a snack, it is quite a strenuous walk.
Written 1 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Joe
Bangkok, Thailand4,945 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2022 • Solo
Elephant Mountain, located in Taipei, Taiwan, is a popular hiking destination renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. This iconic mountain is named for a rock formation resembling an elephant's head. The trail leading to the viewpoint is both challenging and rewarding, attracting locals and tourists alike. Along the way, hikers encounter steep stairs and rugged paths, making the ascent an exhilarating adventure. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing sight, especially during sunset when Taipei's city lights illuminate the landscape. It's a serene escape from the bustling city below, offering a unique blend of nature and urban beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Written 2 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Miko
Singapore, Singapore7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
I visited this trail with my older mother and it was perfect. The stair-filled hike was a bit challenging for her but the views were fantastic and there were multiple levels to take photos from. At the very top there may be people queueing to climb up on a large boulder which, when framed right, gives a great isolated view of you/your group and Taipei 101. I could see the trail getting very-crowded so make it in the morning if you can, which has the added benefit of cooler weather and perhaps even a sunrise.
Written 12 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Steven S
Da'an, Taipei32 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Friends
It's fairly crowded on the weekend, so you'll have to wait in line to take pictures at the nice spots. I don't care too much for pictures. Do we had a great time hiking.

You can hike around for 4 or 5 hours if you do all the trails, so bring a snack and lots of water! (There's a drinking fountain at the information desk at the entrance for refills.)

Also, there are tons of steps, so you've been warned.
Written 7 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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ELEPHANT MOUNTAIN (AKA NANGANG DISTRICT HIKING TRAIL) (2024) All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) - Tripadvisor

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