Forest Recreation Area Series PART.
When it comes to the backyard of Greater Taipei, Full Moon Park is the top choice!
This forest area, situated at an altitude of 300–1,700 meters, is surrounded by mountains and crisscrossed by streams, making it a natural forest playground. Walking along the Ruizi Creek Ecological Trail, the sound of the stream is like music, and waves of phytoncides refresh your mind. A family stroll here is incredibly healing!
Last week, I visited the Full Moon National Forest Recreation Area in Sanxia, New Taipei City. It truly lives up to its reputation as a "waterfall paradise + maple secret haven"!
As soon as you step onto the Ruizi Creek Trail, the babbling stream sounds like nature's symphony. The forest bath rejuvenates your mind and body, and deep breaths bring instant relaxation. Along the way, interpretive signs provide ecological knowledge, making kids excited to explore and learn.
The most breathtaking sights are the waterfalls! Full Moon Waterfall cascades majestically, while Virgin Waterfall often features rainbows in front, creating a fairyland-like scene. Silver Curtain Waterfall is serene and enchanting, offering a perfect spot for scenic enjoyment. In spring, butterflies fill the air; in summer, the creek water is refreshingly cool; and in autumn and winter, the entire forest transforms into postcard-worthy beauty. Truly, "surprises all year round"! The guided trails are thoughtfully designed, with 16 interpretive points that make learning and walking irresistible.
Kids especially love the visitor center, where they can see butterflies, streams, and enjoy AR interactions—it's so much fun. The entire park is well-equipped, and walking is easy, ensuring fun for all ages.
🚗 Super Convenient Transportation
Driving? The parking lot is just a 15-minute walk from the entrance. Taking the bus? It stops directly at the park. Tickets are affordable: $80 on weekdays and $100 on weekends.
🦋 Rich Ecology, Year-Round Beauty
In spring and summer, butterflies flutter and birds sing, making it an ideal spot for family insect-watching. In autumn and winter, the forest is adorned with vibrant maple leaves, earning its title as "the most beautiful low-altitude maple forest."
💧 Must-Visit Waterfall Attractions
The park boasts three stunning waterfalls: Full Moon Waterfall, Virgin Waterfall (Rainbow Veil Waterfall), and Silver Curtain Waterfall. Their dramatic drops and roaring sounds are awe-inspiring. Virgin Waterfall, in particular, often features rainbows, creating a dreamy photo opportunity with mist and light.
🌲 Accessible and Enjoyable Trails
👉🏻 Ruizi Creek Trail (about 50 minutes): Flat and easy to walk, perfect for family strolls.
👉🏻 Self-Guided Forest Trail (about 1.2 km): Features 16 ecological interpretive stations for an educational nature experience.
👉🏻 Full Moon Waterfall Trail and Virgin Waterfall Trail: Venture deep into the mountains to feel the rhythm of the forest and the refreshing mist.
🏡 Visitor Center + Family Interaction Hall
The newly renovated visitor center includes a Butterfly Hall, Stream Hall, and Forest Hall, offering AR interactions, environmental education, and exploration spaces that kids adore. Don't miss out on the wealth of information and fun experiences here.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for Families
With flat trails and well-maintained facilities, even strollers and wheelchairs can navigate easily. Suitable for all ages, you can picnic, sip tea, and enjoy forest breathing together—a truly delightful experience.
✅ Tips: Wear comfortable non-slip shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. If you want to capture maple leaves in autumn, start early. Trails and ecological halls have ramps, making them stroller-friendly.