Monday, May 9, 2016

Climbing Mt. Batolusong

One of the reasons why I decided to join the hike to Mt. Batolusong is because I wanted to see the sea of clouds. I've seen one when my husband and I went to Banaue and Sagada but I was thrilled to see it in Mt. Batolusong.



Apart from that, it was my first time to climb a mountain. I have experienced trekking when we climbed to see the Ditumabo Water Falls and the two hundred plus steps in Ermita Hills in Baler, Aurora, Quezon.  I also tried trekking Pongas Falls and the cave connection in Lumiang and Sumaguing Cave as well as the trekking to Echo Valley Trail all in Sagada.


Mt. Batolusong has fast become one of the famous hiking spots near Metro Manila probably because of ts accessibility. To add, it has an easy, open trail, breath taking sceneries and a refreshing air as you climb the mountain..

Mt. Batolusong is located at the province of Tanay, Rizal. At the top of the mountain your eyes will be delighted with the view of Laguna and Rizal  It also showcases many beautiful array of grasslands, rock formations, blue skies and many other landscapes and mountain ranges.



We were 15 climbers in the group namely: JOEL, ANGEL, SUSAN, NEP, JETHRA, LEONOR, BEL, LEO, ALEX, ISAY, NOEL, JIM, MYLA, JENNARD and ME. Our group name is Team Goodness Mountaineers.





Our group climbed Mt. Batolusong on May 7, 2016. Our meeting place was at Intramuros, Manila at 1:45 a.m. At exactly 2:00 a.m, we traveled from Manila to Tanay, Rizal.  We bought our breakfast at 7-11 going to Tanay. At around 5 in the morning, we reached barangay San Andres where Mt. Batolusong is situated. Before we start the hike, we paid P20.00 (per head) for the registration fee and P1,500.00 for our tour guide.  (we are 15 - P500.00 - good for 5 pax).

THE TRAIL TO MT. BATOLUSONG


It was still dark when we started to climb the mountain of Batolusong. The first few minutes of the climb was easy (kumbaga chill lang muna). We passed through various rice fields, crossed a stream, and walked on big and small rocks. Along the climb there were small houses with children playing around. There were also 2 stations for water refill.








I felt a little tired along the hike but I got to prepare myself with a few exercise days before we climb. I went up and down the stairs to prepare my legs, feet and my knees for the 4 hours hike. I also walked a few kilometers when I go home from the office.








While climbing and resting, of course, I was able to pose for a few shots. I don't have an SLR or any high tech camera to capture vivid and more detailed photos of the place. I only have with me a small digicam and my cellphone. But then, I was able to shoot a few good one.







When we reached Duhatan Ridge leading to Mapatag Plateau, I saw an entirely beautiful world. Nature at its finest. I have seen stretches of mountains like the Sierra, Madre, and the view of Susong Dalaga and Mt. Banahaw.




When our group was already at the Mapatag Plateau which serves as the first summit of Batolusong, we were so amazed by the beautiful scenics around.











At the Mapatag Plateau, only 7 of us decided to climb the summit or the highest peak, Rangyas Peak. I was the only girl who joined in the climbing. The others were: JIM, ALEX, LEO, NEP, NOEL and JENNARD.





The climb to the peak was more difficult. It was very steep but nothing compares to the beauty of nature. Though, I was really tired and my muscles were already aching, I still found the courage to climb. And it was really worthy. It was so amazing and was so splendid!


At the Summit


Yes! We did it!



At Rangyas Peak






























After we climbed Mt. Batolusong, we headed our way to Sungab cave where we will wash ourselves. But there was a change in plan because some us did not bring their things with them so we have to go back to the van.


Some of us bathed ourselve s in a near by comfort rooms in some of the houses within the community. While the others decided to swim at Daranak Falls.

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