Mt. Ulap in Itogon, Benguet features enchanting views, rock formations, rolling hills and pine trees.
Location: Itogon, Benguet
Entry point: Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon
Exit point: Brgy. Sta. Fe, Itogon
LLA: 16.2904 N, 120.6312 E, 1846 MASL (Mt. Ulap)
Days required / Hours to summit: 1 day / 2-3 hours
Specs: Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-3
Features: Grassland and pine ridges, scenic views of the Cordilleras, burial caves
From Pinoy Mountaineer
I always wanted to visit Mt. Ulap so when my friends set up a date, I decided to join them. This mountain in Northern Luzon is one of the destinations in my bucket list. Though our squad is fond of DIYs, this time we decided to find a good deal that offers tour packages, so we could relax more. We found an organizer that offers low cost package and transportation for only Php 900. Yes, for only Php 900. :) amazing right?
It was really fun because it was our first time joining a very large group. This photo was taken at the Ampucao Barangay Hall, the jump-off point of Mt. Ulap Eco Trail.
After arriving at the Brgy. Hall, our organizer had our names registered and paid for our local guides. We had a quick orientation and most importantly prayed before we started trekking.
Locals gave us this stamp before we left the jump-off. As per them, it's their way of knowing the number of hikers for that day. Mt. Ulap Eco Trail Tourism had released a statement to limit the number of hikers. All groups organized or not will be limited to a maximum of 20 individuals only. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays - 500 people and for Mondays to Fridays - 150 people.
What to expect during the hike?
1. Ambanaw Paoay - The first part of the trek was the trail going to Ambanaw Paoay Peak. This trail offers up and down ridges and some assaults that will make you catch your breath.
We started the hike early in the morning so I only brought 2L of water, coz I know I won't get thirsty more often because the trail was cold and breezy.
In this trail, you'll find beautiful spots that are all Instagram worthy shots. We spent most of our time here taking some photos. :)
This reminds me so much of my Twilight fan days. Can I find Edward Cullen here? :)
Arriving at the 1st peak, after a lot of stopovers for some photo ops.
2. Gungal Rock - After the first peak we head to the famous Gungal Rock. The trail going to the famous cliff offers endless slopes of grasslands and a 360 view of the surrounding mountains. Our guide was able to show us Mt. Ugo, Mt. Pulag, Mt. Sto Tomas, Mt. Cabuyao and a little bit of Baguio City.
Gungal Rock is probably the highlight of our climb. It's magnificent view is breath taking. I like how they organize the photo sessions. There were rangers that will ask you to fall in line and will only allow you 10 seconds to have your photo with the famous peak. And you'll hear a whistle once your turn is over. They will also insure your safety. They were really nice I must say.
3. Mt. Ulap Summit and Campsite - After another hour of trekking with a descend and an assault, we reached the 3rd peak which the summit of Mt. Ulap. The sun is already up when we arrived, good thing we had our sun block on.
What a picture perfect landscape. It feels like the clouds are just within reach. :) There's no tree covers in here because it's an open grassland. But the place will make you appreciate the clouds even more.
This trail will lead you to the campsite which is 10 to 15 mins from the summit. The campsite is pretty nice, open and wide which very much prefect for an overnight hike. Plus, just a few steps and you'll find stalls that sells foods, souvenir and a refreshing drinks. For me, I bought pancit canton and a bottle of soda. :)
4. Forested descent - This is the last leg of the hike, it felt like it would knocked off our feet because of it's unforgiving steep and rocky descend. It took us an hour or two to Sta. Fe exit.
ITINERARY:
(Time will depend on your pace)
https://www.facebook.com/AdTraMents DAY 0 - October 27 (Friday) 10:00 pm - Calltime / Meetup @ Mcdo Quezon Ave 11:00 pm - Travel to Baguio DAY 1 - October 28 (Saturday) 03:00 am - ETA Brgy. Ampucao / Register 04:00 am - Start trek 07:00 am - ETA Gungal Rock 08:00 am - Resume Trek 10:00 am - ETA Summit 10:30 am - Start Descent 12:30 pm - ETA Sta Fe (Lunch) 01:30 pm - Travel to Baguio 02:00 pm - ETA Baguio (Open Itinerary) 06:00 pm - Back to Manila
THINGS TO BRING: ● jacket ● Flashlight / Headlight ● extra clothes/undergarments ● towel/bimpo ● hat/cap ● sun block/arm sleeves ● 1.5Liter water, depending on your personal consumption ● trail food (Jellies, Chocolates, Nuts) ● packed lunched ● shades ● toiletries ● first aid kit/personal medicine ● poncho/raincoat ● camera/powerbank ● extra money
Shoutout to my travel buddies- 1KBTeam! Never a dull moment with you guys!
Until our next adventures!
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