Elephant Mountain (aka Nangang District Hiking Trail), Taipei

A great place to catch the sunset over Taipei and the great 101 Tower building is the Elephant mountain. Unfortunately there are no real elephants to be seen but the skyline view, and the beautifully lit streets and building is a good enough reason to take the 30 min trail to the view point. It’s a steep climb but hand rails and stone steps lead up and over the mountain. Defiantly worth it once you reach the view point. At night there are lamps to guide you but if you wish to take the trail after sunset have a flash light handy.

If you're visiting Taipei, one of the must-see attractions is Elephant Mountain, and for good reason. This hike offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the iconic Taipei 101 tower that you simply won't find anywhere else. The hike itself is a bit challenging, with some steep stairs and inclines, but the payoff is more than worth it. As you climb higher and higher, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city below, with the Taipei 101 tower standing tall in the distance.

The hike is not even very long. A lot of elderly people make it up there and I can tell you.. it is SO worth it! The view is the best over the entire city. You should come here during sunset and see the city transition from day to night. This is one view I will never forget. 😀

The best time to hike the mountain is during late afternoon, this way you can catch the sunset as well as a daytime view and stunning nighttime view of the city, however the trail can get relatively crowded during the weekend. The hike takes a total of around 15-20 minutes to the top, and includes lots of stairs! Remember to take a left at the fork in the path. After around 8-10 minutes, there will be a landing area with facilities and restrooms where the path branches off in multiple directions.

Beautiful vistas await at the viewing points along the Elephant Mountain trail. While on the shorter side of hikes, it's one that people of all ages can do and enjoy, from families with kids, people walking dogs up the stairs, tourists, and even the odd elderly Taiwanese. The stone stairs are grippy when dry, but may be slippery after a rain, so take caution to keep to the handrails for safety sake.