登山健行是國人閒暇時間最喜歡從事的休閒活動，而登山健行又常以登山步道為主；華山登山步道是近年來，雲嘉地區從事休閒活動登山健行者的最愛，參與人口不斷的增加。本文將就登山步道的定義、登山步道的功能與登山步道的分類，來探討華山登步道所具有的特性與功能。從探討中發現華山登山步道具備了步道的主要特性：所需裝備簡便、使用者為一般的社會大眾、可以一日來回、主要是以步行為主，且海拔並非很高。華山登山步道在功能上則兼具運動、遊憩、體驗大自然、教育及花費較少等功能。華山登山步道在分類上，屬於近郊短程運動型的大眾化主要登山步道。
Mountain-climbing and hiking are the most popular leisure-time activity in Taiwan, with the hiking trail in particular. Huadshan, which is located in middle Taiwan, has become the favorite of mountaineers in recent years. More and more people come visit it. In this article, by examining the definition, functions and categories of the hiking trail, we will explore the advantages of Huadshan hiking trail. Its characteristics includes simple packing, acceptable to general public, one day travel tour, walking in natures, and also a not-very-high latitude location. Huadshan hiking trail combines the functions of sports, relaxing, experiencing nature, education as well as low cost. Huadshan hiking trail is a kind of environ, short-term, sports type, and popularized hiking trail.