Xianshan is located at the junction of Nanzhuang and Shitan in Miaoli. There are two main climbing routes: one is to go up Xianshan from Shitan on Provincial Highway 3, and the other is to go up Xianshan from Highway 124B through the urban area of Nanzhuang. The two routes have different levels of difficulty, and both end at the Fairy Mountain Lingdong Palace, which is one of the popular routes for riders visiting Miaoli for the first time. Cycling in Miaoli Xianshan is not only challenging, but also allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. It is a route that cycling enthusiasts cannot miss.
Figure 1, Lingdong PalaceCan be used as a leisure spot (There are also food stalls next to it.)
Route analysis
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Xianshan Mountain (47.78 km, 862 meters of climbing)
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route: 7-ELEVEN (Tianye Store) → Shitan Shengmen Archway (15.6 km) → Xianshan Stone Stele (21.68 km) → Return via Nanzhuang City
The first 15.6 kilometers are hilly terrain, and there is a 1.7-kilometer long uphill slope with a climb of 90 meters before the Xinzhuang Tunnel. After climbing, enter Xinzhuang Tunnel and Baishou Tunnel, then go downhill to Shitan City, turn left from the archway and go up Xianshan. If necessary, you can rest at Shitan Family Resort first.
This 5.8-kilometer section has a 475-meter climb, with the slope mainly between 6% and 8%, and there are many steep slopes of more than 10%. After passing the Shitan Xingxiancao, the slope is about 10%. There is a dog shed before the finish line, about 500 meters away from the finish line. The slope of this section is also over 10% and continues to rise. This is where most people pull bikes. Save your strength, the stele is right in front of you.
Route Map:Click to view
Figure 2,The hilly terrain of Provincial Highway 3 is suitable for training short-interval riding.
Figure 3,The steep uphill slope in front of the Xianshan Stone Monument requires attention to adjusting the appropriate gear ratio
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Xianshan Back (47.78 km, 862 m of ascent)
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route: 7-ELEVEN (Tianye Store) → Nanzhuang City (10.45 km) → Xianshan Stone Monument (26.16 km) → Return via Provincial Highway 3
The first 10 kilometers are flat terrain with a gradual ascent, including a long uphill section of 600 meters with a climb of 40 meters. After passing the Cangshan Stone Stele, go down and then enter the flat terrain such as the river weir, all the way to Nanzhuang.
Before entering the mountain, if necessary, you can take a short break at FamilyMart Osmanthus Garden in Nanzhuang before entering the fairy mountain. Xianshanbei is mainly divided into two parts: before the fish protection trail, it is mainly a gentle uphill slope (about 6.2 kilometers, 170 meters of climb), which is suitable for teamwork. After entering the fish protection trail, the section in front of the Penglai Police Station is the steepest section (about 10% or more).
After passing Penglai Elementary School, the route becomes slower and the forest landscape changes, entering the real mountain climbing hairpin section with a slope of about 6%-10%. The Sanshan Stone Monument is less than 500 meters away from the highest point pavilion. After reaching the pavilion, you can go down steeply for about 800 meters to see Lingdong Palace and the Xianshan Stone Stele.
Route Map:Click to view
Figure 4, Sanshan StelePrevious appointment40Meters long uphill
Figure 5,The steepest section of the road in Xianbei is in front of Penglai Police Station
Miaoli Xianshan Cycling Route challenges many cycling enthusiasts with its beautiful natural scenery and diverse terrain. Whether you choose the more challenging Xianshan Upward Route or the scenic Xianshan Backward Route, you can fully experience the fun and sense of accomplishment of cycling. Remember to be well prepared, enjoy every ride, and be safe during the ride. I hope this route guide can help you with your cycling trip to Miaoli Xianshan. I wish you a pleasant and unforgettable cycling experience!
Related suggestions
- Parking and resupply locations: 7-ELEVEN Tianye store is the best place to park and change clothes.
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Rest Point:
- Shitan Family: Located in the urban area of Shitan, it is suitable for resting before entering the fairy mountain.
- Nanzhuang Family Mart Osmanthus Garden Store: Located in the urban area of Nanzhuang, it is another ideal resting point before entering the fairy mountain.
- Safety Tips: Pay attention to traffic, maintain a proper speed, stay hydrated, and carry basic car repair tools.
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Recommended attractions:
- Xianshan Lingdong Palace: A famous scenic spot at the end point, suitable for taking photos.
- Nanzhuang Old Street: After the ride, you can stroll around the old street and taste local snacks.
- Cycling community: Join local cycling groups or activities, such as the Miaoli Bicycle Association’s cycling activities, and exchange experiences with other cyclists.
