Jungle Ride

Development. The calling card of industrialization, stamped on virtually every corner of the beautiful Ilha Formosa. Expected perhaps in one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Tragic nonetheless when spectular mountain vistas are marred by mammoth powerline relays, river beds lined with concrete walls. Everywhere, man has unabashedly left his mark.

On a lazy Saturday afternoon, we experienced one place where nature is fighting back!

A day earlier, my roommate had been exploring near Dongshi, a city just north of Fengyuan. While driving aimlessly along back mountain roads, he came across a hidden stretch of road so completely overgrown by the surrounding forest it could only be described as the "jungle road." Trevor assured us, this was something we needed to see in person. He was right!

Littered with fallen rock, swallowed by undergrowth, the jungle road was pure adventure. In places, rainwater and runoff pooled, making the road almost impassable. Obvious sink holes could be seen forming. Stretches of guardrail had eroded away. It was awesome!

The excursion proved the perfect Saturday diversion, welcome respite from the harried routine of work and responsibilities.