Makiling Traverse: Toughest Day Hike
Posted by kimboyJuly 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 GreyMakTrav 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 GreyThe 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' RopeThe 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