Hiking Talks #13:Above the clouds/ highest summit in Luzon ~ Mt. Pulag

Ambangeg Trail
MAJOR CLIMB| Known to be the roof of Luzon, the 3rd highest peak in the country. The majestic Mt. Pulag is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines. The native tribes say that Mt. Pulag is the "playground of the gods".

Its winding slopes of dwarf bamboo, distant peaks and ocean-like lofty clouds make the entire experience great and breathtaking. Since Ambangeg is a friendly trail, some mountaineers call it an easy trail, but for me there is no such thing as an easy trail when climbing mountains.

When climbing Mt. Pulag, you would already start off from a high altitude especially at Ambangeg. Pine forest, farm landscapes and dwarf bamboos will meet you while treading along the trail.

HIKING
The major jump off is at Badabak Ranger Station where you can fix things up and have an early lunch then get ready for the trek. From this point, the summit is about 8KM away.

First up! you will pass by the wide trail, lined with pine trees and picturesque landscape, then you will enter into the montane forest. At the middle of the mossy forest is Camp 1,with the hut as the landmark. The trail is very friendly, relaxing and enjoyable, add to it the cool atmosphere and the refreshing touch of the wind.

Before approaching Camp 2 (2,600+MASL), the last water source will draw your attention. Do refill your drinking bottles and store water for cooking usage. Trekking from Ranger Station to Camp 2 takes 2.5-3 hours. Whew! Nevertheless, Camp 2 is the most advisable campsite, with a close water source and latrines.

Inasmuch as we wished to stay, we continued our trek and set a camp at the saddle,(2 hours or less trekking time) in close proximity to the summit. Temperature here is near freezing level. The trail offers unparalleled grassland landscapes with a golden brown hue, dwarf bamboos and the grand array of the Cordillera Mountains.

Saddle Camp

From saddle campsite to summit assault, it takes 30-45 mins. It is ideally done in the early morning (dawn) as it allows you to meet the sunrise. Hiking to the summit at such hour is quite freezing; temperature drops really low,making you walk like an astronaut. 

Got more words to tell but as a whole, Mt. Pulag is truly amazing and beautiful. Trek to Mt.Pulag and experience it. That will be more than worth it and rewarding.

DETAILS
Jump off| Ambangeg, Badabak Ranger Station| Bokod,Benguet
LLA| 16°34'58"N 120°53'15"E 2,922 MASL
Days required | Hours to summit| 1-2 days/ 4-5 hours
Specs| Major Climb, Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-2| Grand Cordillera Trail, Section 3
Features| Sea of clouds, dwarf bamboo slopes, pine forests

REGISTRATION
Mt. Pulag is a national park; Ma’am Emerita Albas is the DENR Park Superintendent (+639196315402)
The registration fee/green fee is 225 for Pinoy’s, 15 box for foreigners and a cultural fee being collected at the Ranger Station in Badabak.

GUIDES
No reservation is required, they have a system being observed in their place, and the guide rate is 500php/day for 1-5 pax. Porters may also be secured for 300php/day.

TRANSPORTATION 

Take a bus bound to Baguio via Victory Liner which is the foremost convenient, with terminals in Cubao (MRT3: Araneta Center - Cubao; LRT2: Cubao); Pasay (MRT3: Taft Avenue; LRT1: EDSA) and Sampaloc, Manila. It is advisable to reserve tickets especially during peak season. Leave Manila at 2300H or earlier. As of 2013,bus fare is 450php. 5-6 hours traveling time.

From Baguio City, the best option is to arrange for a charted jeepney all the way to the Ranger Station/Badabak. Contact Ms.Gina Epe. You may contact her through +63919-816-9234. Jeepney transportation ranges from P8000-9000 vice-versa for 12pax. Two hours is the traveling time.

Ranger Station

ITINERARY

 I don’t post a detailed itinerary because I believe such should be experienced by nobody else but you yourself. General time frame in every stops are shown in the transportation and hiking part of the article.