Sunset Hiking in Beitou Hot Thermal Valley + Battleship Rock

Steam first, then green. This Saturday afternoon's hike starts at the sulfur-scented edge of Beitou Thermal Valley and finishes on the Junjianyan trail up to Battleship Rock. It's an easy-to-medium climb with a 185.6m high point, and you'll be done in time for golden hour.

Plan A: walk past the Ghost Lake

If you've soaked at Beitou Hot Spring Park, Thermal Valley is where some of that hot water comes from. Sulfuric steam rolls off the valley all year, which is how it got the spooky nickname "Ghost Lake." The air smells like eggs and the steam makes it feel like you're standing next to a volcano. You're not. Probably.

Plan B: climb to Battleship Rock

Next comes the Junjianyan Hiking Trail, a well-known easy hike in Beitou. Expect leafy green tunnels, a nice breeze, flowers along the path, and a rocky top at 185.6m. If you're fit enough for a weekend walk, you're fit enough for this.

Getting there

Take the Red Line to Xinbeitou Station (R22A) and meet the group at Exit 1 at 1:30 PM.

House rules (please read)

About the weather: Taipei gets thunderstorms, and the organizer will decide whether to postpone based on the forecast. Any decision will be shared as early as possible, so check back before you leave.

Eddie Nutritionist is hosting, and comments or suggestions are always welcome. Get on the going list, then see you at Exit 1. 🥾