Makiling Traverse: Toughest Day Hike

July 25, 2010 - In preparation for my Mindanao "expedition" this August, I joined the Makiling traverse climb from Sto. Tomas Batangas to UPLB organized by Gideon Lasco - author of pinoymountaineer.com to guide Orang Gunung Kuala Lumpur (OGKL) mountaineering club.

Jump off by Koi Grey

MakTrav is considered by many as the toughest day hike and the best mountain to train for major climbs. Personally this is the toughest day hike I've ever had.

Peak by Koi Grey

The trek started at around 0715H from the jump-off point in San Bartolome, Sto. Tomas, Batangas. It was a gradual pace as I tailed the group. The weather was calm all the way until we finished our lunch and commenced trekking towards the peak. The rained poured down heavily at around 1330H that caused muddy and slippery trek. I reached the peak at around 1430 and I immediately descended after 15 minutes as I want to walk on "fresh" trail towards UPLB.
Trail from Sto. Tomas Jump off



Pitcher plant from Melkas Ridge

Melkas Ridge by Mayan Gutierrez

Melkas Ridge' Rope

The trek towards UPLB is the hardest part. It took me 2.5 hours to reach UPLB via a muddy and slippery trail.
Trail down to UPLB

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