Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) Taipei
Climb the steep stairs of Elephant Mountain for unparalleled panoramic views of Taipei, including the iconic Taipei 101.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for city views
Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) Taipei
Best Time
Best light for city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb the steep stairs of Elephant Mountain for unparalleled panoramic views of Taipei, including the iconic Taipei 101.
"Those wanting to fly a drone, there is a sweet spot just after the summit viewpoint."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a steep staircase climb! Good grip is key, especially if it's wet.
💧 Bring Water & Towel
You'll sweat! Stay hydrated and have a towel handy for the climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taipei 101 Skyline View
Main Viewing Platforms
The quintessential Taipei panorama, with Taipei 101 dominating the cityscape. Perfect for sunset and night shots.
Six Boulders
Near the Summit
Iconic rock formations offering unique vantage points and a popular spot for photos, especially for drone enthusiasts.
Yixiantian (One Line Sky)
Lower Trail Section
A narrow, scenic path that offers a different perspective and a slightly less strenuous option for reaching viewpoints.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Iconic View
Stairs, Sweat, and Smart Packing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a steep staircase climb! Good grip is key, especially if it's wet.
💧 Bring Water & Towel
You'll sweat! Stay hydrated and have a towel handy for the climb.
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat
Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the day.
📸 Be Patient for Photos
Popular viewpoints, especially the Six Boulders, can have queues for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
It's a steep staircase climb! Good grip is key, especially if it's wet.
💧 Bring Water & Towel
You'll sweat! Stay hydrated and have a towel handy for the climb.
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat
Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the day.
📸 Be Patient for Photos
Popular viewpoints, especially the Six Boulders, can have queues for photos.
🔦 Night Hike Safety
Well-lit in parts, but bring a flashlight and watch for slippery steps.
📱 Use Klook for Bookings
Great for booking Taiwan activities and tours, often with discounts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Elephant Mountain for its breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei, especially the iconic Taipei 101 skyline, making it a highly recommended spot for photographers and sightseers. While the steep stair climb can be challenging and crowded during peak hours, the rewarding vistas and accessibility make it a worthwhile experience for most.
"A beautiful hike for sunset!
It's a good hike up some steep steps with a fair few others doing the same, be prepared for some crowds for golden hour.
But the views are worth it. Those wanting to fly a drone, there is a sweet spot just after the summit viewpoint. Maybe 30m, a wide space (check photo for reference), which is super peaceful so easy for take off and landing. It's also just outside of the no fly zone which is ideal as you don't have to trek too far for it."
antzarmy
"You don't even need to go all the way to the peak for stunning sunset views. Bring bug spray and water! Then walk to Taipei 101 and enjoy some dinner and tea on your way home."
Alexa Juvan
"Even though there is no actual elephant, you can still enjoy the stunning views of Taipei 101 and the skyline, along with interesting spots like One Line Sky and the Six Boulders. I recommend starting at the Yongchun Gang Trailhead and following the Xiangshan Trail. For a more challenging route, continue up to Chaoran Pavilion and the iconic Six Boulders photo spot. For an easier option, take the Yixiantian (One Line Sky) path. On the way down, exit at Lingyun Temple where you can catch a bus or walk to Xiangshan MRT Station. We hiked with a 5-year-old, and it took us about 1 hour to complete the trip in 36°C heat. It’s definitely doable and the views are worth it!"
Tao Cui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the MRT Red Line to Xiangshan Station (Exit 2). From there, it's about a 10-minute walk through Xiangshan Park to the trailhead. 
While there isn't direct parking at the trailhead, you can find parking garages in the vicinity of Xiangshan Station. However, public transport is highly recommended.
Yes, several bus routes stop near Xiangshan Station, making it accessible via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
Taxis can drop you off near Xiangshan Station, from where you can walk to the trailhead. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate the MRT.
Exit Xiangshan MRT Station at Exit 2, walk through Xiangshan Park, cross the road, and follow the path around the bend. The steep stairs of the trail start are unmissable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Elephant Mountain is a public park and hiking trail, so there is no admission fee. Entry is free for everyone.
The trail is generally accessible 24/7, but it's recommended to visit during daylight hours or early evening for safety and visibility.
For the iconic Taipei 101 skyline view, aim for golden hour or sunset. However, early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's advisable to stay on marked trails and be mindful of weather conditions, especially after typhoons.
Yes, you can visit during holidays, but expect larger crowds, especially during sunset.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike to the main viewpoint is relatively short, typically taking 20-40 minutes one way, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop. The entire round trip from Xiangshan MRT can take about an hour.
It's considered moderately challenging due to the steep, continuous stairs. It's more of a stair climb than a hike, with around 1,086 steps to the main viewpoint.
Wear comfortable athletic shoes with good grip. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to humidity. Bring a small towel and water.
Restroom facilities are available near the trailhead and at some points along the path.
Yes, you can continue on to other trails like the Four Beast Scenic Area or Thumb Mountain for more extensive hiking and different views. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunset and golden hour offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Taipei 101 skyline. Early morning provides softer light and fewer people.
The main viewing platforms, especially the Six Boulders, offer the iconic panoramic view of Taipei 101 and the city.
There's a specific spot about 30 meters past the summit viewpoint that is suitable for drone take-off and landing, and it's outside the no-fly zone.
Look for unique rock formations like the Six Boulders and the narrow Yixiantian (One Line Sky) path for interesting photographic compositions.
The main viewpoints, particularly for sunset, can get very crowded. Be prepared to wait for your turn to take photos at popular spots like the Six Boulders.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak sunset crowds and heat. The main viewpoint offers a fantastic reward for the effort, and kids often enjoy spotting landmarks like Taipei 101. The walk through Xiangshan Park on the way to the trailhead is also a pleasant start to the outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings offer a quieter experience and softer light. Don't forget to explore the unique rock formations and the narrow Yixiantian path for varied compositions. Some visitors even find a good spot for drone photography just past the main summit viewpoint.
🏃 Fitness Buffs & Hikers
Consider combining the Elephant Mountain climb with other nearby trails for a more comprehensive nature experience. The well-maintained paths offer a good way to explore Taipei's natural surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Xiangshan Trail
For those seeking a more extended experience, the trail connects to a network of other paths, including the Four Beast Scenic Area and Thumb Mountain. These offer more challenging routes and diverse natural scenery. The trail is well-maintained and generally safe, with lighting along parts of the main path, making it accessible even in the early evening.
Key takeaway: Prepare for a stair workout! Wear appropriate footwear, bring water, and enjoy the rewarding city views that unfold as you ascend. The trail is a fantastic way to experience Taipei's natural beauty within the urban landscape.
The Best Times for Views and Photos
For a more tranquil experience and softer lighting, early mornings are highly recommended. You'll have a better chance of enjoying the views without the throngs of people, and the city will be bathed in a gentle, natural light. Some visitors even opt for pre-sunrise hikes to Thumb Mountain for a unique perspective.
Consider visiting on weekdays to potentially avoid the peak weekend crowds. Regardless of the time, the panoramic views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding cityscape are consistently spectacular, making any visit worthwhile.
Safety and Practicalities for Night Hikes
Essential precautions include bringing a flashlight or headlamp, as not all parts of the trail are brightly lit. Be particularly mindful of the stone steps, which can become slippery when wet or damp. Wearing shoes with good traction is highly recommended.
While wildlife sightings are rare, some visitors have reported seeing nocturnal creatures. Staying on the marked paths is advised. The primary concern is the risk of slips and falls on the stairs, so a steady pace and careful footing are paramount.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit