Exploring Taiwan’s Historic Quiet Trail: A Photo Journey

The World’s First Quiet Trail: Cuifeng Lake in Taiwan

Start your journey to discover the tranquility of Cuifeng Lake, Taiwan’s largest alpine lake located in the picturesque northeastern Yilan County. This unique destination has been designated as the world’s first “quiet trail,” showcasing nature’s beauty and serenity.

What Makes Cuifeng Lake Unique?

Cuifeng Lake has earned its peaceful status due to its distinctive features and commitment to maintaining a tranquil environment.

Location and Accessibility

This stunning area sits at elevations between 1,900 (6,232 feet) and 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level. Consequently, visitors are treated to breathtaking views coupled with a serene atmosphere. You can easily reach Cuifeng from Taipei, which is approximately 135 km (84 miles) away.

Trail Features

  • Trail Length: The trail extends for 3.95 kilometers (2.45 miles) and is constructed on remnants of an old forest railway.
  • Sound Measurement: The lowest measured volume on this trail is fewer than 25 decibels, emphasizing the peaceful ambiance.
  • Visitor Experience: While many walk the trail, most opt to turn back at the end of the 300-meter wooden walkway, leaving the deeper sections less crowded.

The Vision Behind the Quiet Trail

Initially announced in 2018, the official designation as a Quiet Place Indicator (QPI) was granted in 2022. Local sound recordist Laila Fan contributed significantly to this initiative, which prioritizes protection from noise while promoting awareness of Taiwan’s natural charm. Their work reflects a deeper understanding of environmental preservation.

Visiting Cuifeng Lake

Exploring Cuifeng Lake and its tranquil surroundings provides a unique opportunity for visitors to embrace nature’s calming effects. Whether you seek peace or an adventure at high elevations, the quiet trail promises a rejuvenating experience.

The world's first quiet trail: The honor was given by a nonprofit to the Cuifeng Lake Circular Trail in Taiwan.
The world’s first “quiet trail”: The honor was given by a nonprofit to the Cuifeng Lake Circular Trail in Taiwan.
Location is everything: The track was built on the old tracks of a forest railway at elevations between 1,900 (6,232 feet) and 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level.
Location is everything: The track was built on the old tracks of a forest railway at elevations between 1,900 (6,232 feet) and 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) above sea level.
How to get there: Cuifeng, Taiwan's largest alpine lake, is in northeastern Yilan county about 135 km (84 miles) from Taipei.
How to get there: Cuifeng, Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, is in northeastern Yilan county about 135 km (84 miles) from Taipei.
How to determine quietness: The lowest measured volume on the trail is fewer than 25 decibels.
How to determine quietness: The lowest measured volume on the trail is fewer than 25 decibels.
Going deeper: While the 3.95-kilometer (2.45 miles) trail is frequented by tourists and locals alike, many turn back at the end of the 300 meter wooden walkway rather than continue on.
Going deeper: While the 3.95-kilometer (2.45 miles) trail is frequented by tourists and locals alike, many turn back at the end of the 300 meter wooden walkway rather than continue on.
In the spotlight: Taiwan announced that Cuifeng would be a 'quiet trail' in 2018, but the official QPI designation didn't come until 2022.
In the spotlight: Taiwan announced that Cuifeng would be a “quiet trail” in 2018, but the official QPI designation didn’t come until 2022.


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