Now that summer is here, people are slowly waking up from autopilot and beginning to think of ways to spend the season. Here is an activity that will not only challenge your willpower, but also change how you see the world. It will literally change your viewpoint! When you get the chance to see the world from above, you will be blown away at how wonderfully vast and beautiful it is. So, why don’t you try hiking up a mountain?
Mt. Maculot located in Cuenca, Batangas, is currently the 9th Most Wanted Mountain In The Philippines, according to Phmountains.com. Its summit is 930 MASL (meters above sea level) but climbers mostly hike only up to the Rockies – which is 704 MASL – because it showcases the best scenic view of the peaceful Taal Lake, amazing rock formations, and lush green forests.
We were a mix of experienced mountaineers and first time hikers that day, but in this picture is only half the group. As Mt. Maculot‘s difficulty is fairly easy, it is a perfect first mountain to conquer for aspiring climbers. Barefoot Thrills: Live the Life is the group that organized our adventure for that day. The start of the trail at Mt. Maculot, Batangas – or in mountaineering terms, the jump off area – is located at Brgy. Siete (VII) Cuenca Batangas, where parking, lounging, washing, and eating are welcome. There are also bottled water, snacks, and other materials that you might want to bring with you for the climb sold at the store there; available also are t-shirts and other souvenir items.
Along the trail are several drink stands where you can purchase iced juices, most of the time including buko, melon, and other cold drinks that help ease the thirst of the mountaineers. There are about 9-10 stalls like this, before you get to the “campsite” where a major sari-sari stand is located. Locals and frequent climbers have dubbed the stand as the “7-eleven” of the mountain, as there is Pancit Canton, noodles, coffee, chips, soft drinks, and even halo-halo being served. The campsite is also where the mountaineers lounge and take a breather in preparation for the last leg of the hike up to Rockies, or the summit.
Going up to Rockies is not an easy climb, especially for first timers. That is why it is important to have trusted guides along with you and your group to help you maneuver through the terrain. Although experienced mountaineers do sometimes go up by themselves, it is a good precaution to have someone with you when climbing a mountain. The wonderful view is certainly a worthwhile reward from the tiring hike.
Maybe you’re asking: why would I put myself through all that hardship just for one activity this summer? Well, my answer to that is this: if you try climbing up a mountain and seeing the wonders that the Philippines possess, you’re going to be so awe-stricken that you would want more. Then you’ll do it again, and again, and again. Need more convincing? Read this article: Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Try Hiking
If after the hike you don’t feel like doing it again, that is fine; everybody is different. I’m telling you, though: an experience like this, even if just for once in your life, is a memory that you will cherish for a lifetime.
So give yourself a chance for adventure. This summer is the perfect time to do it. And as Barefoot Thrills says it, “Live The Life.”
If you’re a newbie with these kinds of things, you can start by checking out Barefoot Thrills. They are a travel and tours company that promotes adventure seeking as a huge part of living life. “Why pay more for the same sunset?” is their philosophy of minimal or lesser cost for the adventures they present.
Barefoot Thrills: Live The Life
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