Lalashan Nature Reserve is a state-owned forest nature reserve established in 1986 by the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau, straddling the boundary between Fuxing District, Taoyuan, and Wulai District, New Taipei; it is also known as Daguan Mountain Nature Reserve. Its core protected subjects are old-growth stands of rare conifers, including Taiwan red cypress and Hinoki cypress. The reserve has 22 registered giant trees, the oldest estimated at over 2,800 years and the tallest reaching 55 meters, making it an important primeval old-growth habitat in northern Taiwan.
Lalashan Nature Reserve (formerly Daguan Mountain Nature Reserve) was established in 1986 by the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau as a state-owned forest nature reserve covering approximately 75 hectares, of which about 30 hectares—the Sacred Tree Area—are open for recreational visits. The reserve has 22 registered red cypress giants ranging in age from 500 to 3,000 years; Tree No. 5 is estimated at over 2,800 years, the oldest of the group, while Tree No. 21, at about 55 meters, is the tallest currently standing. In 2023 the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency announced the site’s transition into the “Lalashan National Forest Recreation Area,” expanding it to 81.59 hectares at elevations of 1,400 to 1,900 meters.
What to See at Lalashan Nature Reserve
The reserve is located in the northern part of Fuxing District, formerly known as Daguan Mountain. Elevations range from 1,000 to 1,700 meters; the climate is cool and wet, which is the optimal elevation zone for Taiwan red cypress. The old-growth trail system links the main sacred tree groves via several routes numbered 1 through 3. The trails are generally well maintained, though some sections are steep. Red cypress is identified by its orange-brown bark with deep fissures and the massive buttress roots at the base of the trunk.
The reserve has clear environmental regulations: visitors must not stray off the trail, touch the trees, or collect plants. In summer (June to September) mist is frequent and light in the forest is dim; the silhouettes of the ancient trees amid morning fog are particularly impressive. In winter (December to February) the mountain area can experience low temperatures and even snow, making trail conditions unstable. Always confirm whether the reserve is open on the day of your visit before setting out; the reserve is sometimes closed due to weather or management policies.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- Drive from Taoyuan City along Provincial Highway 7 into Fuxing District, then take County Road 117 to Daguan Mountain. The mountain road journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours; the road is winding — drive carefully.
- Public transport is very infrequent. Without a private vehicle, consider a chartered tour vehicle departing from Daxi. Confirm service before departing.
- Opening hours and park entry regulations follow announcements from the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency. Entry numbers may be limited during peak season.
Nearby Connections
- Lalashan is surrounded by peach farms. During summer harvest season (June to August), roadside fruit stalls are common along the farm roads, though the roads are also at their most congested during this period.
- Consider combining with Xiao Wulai or Jiaobanshan Presidential Villa for a two-day Northern Cross-Island itinerary, planned in stages for a more relaxed pace.
Sources: Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, Daguan Mountain Nature Reserve related materials. Photos pending replacement with Dio's own shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Lalashan Nature Reserve established?
It was established in 1986 by the Council of Agriculture’s Forestry Bureau as a state-owned forest nature reserve.
How large is Lalashan Nature Reserve?
The total area is about 75 hectares, of which roughly 30 hectares—the Sacred Tree Area—is open to visitors; it expanded to 81.59 hectares after its 2023 transition to a national forest recreation area.
Which tree is the oldest and which is the tallest in Lalashan?
Tree No. 5 is estimated at over 2,800 years, the oldest, while Tree No. 21 stands about 55 meters tall, the tallest currently living.
Sources
- 拉拉山 - 維基百科，自由的百科全書 — 1986年設立、75公頃、2023年轉型國家森林遊樂區
- 拉拉山自然保護區(達觀山) - TravelKing旅遊王 — 神木樹齡與22株巨木列管資訊
- 拉拉山與大雪山巨木完成樹齡鑑定 國家森林遊樂區十大巨木出列 - 林業及自然保育署 — 神木樹齡鑑定官方新聞