sunrise at Mt. Parawagan
As we started our usual hike routine, this one differs from others as we tried many ways to get to the jump-off area at Montalban, Rizal without a private car. Not only did we walk from our place to the area where jeepneys usually pass by (which is not that near to our place) but we also waited for quite some time for any transportation to arrive which we failed to get. Haha!
the Parawagan gang
The group then, later on, decided to use two different Grab cars at the end which got us to Wawa Montalban in no time.
Even though we started a bit late from what we have initially planned (4:30 am is the earliest any group can go), we were all excited to start the adventure as soon as we got there. As per the group, it will all be our first time climbing Mt. Parawagan aside from our other experiences hiking the other summits in the area.
jump-off area
The interesting fact here is that we actually didn't have a solid target summit that we wanted to go for that time so Philip and I just selected from the ones that we haven't visited yet. And boy, we got surprised! Big time! Haha!
It was the usual dark, planty, and inclined terrain for the first part of the hike.. All were still at the same phasing and doing a few stops when able especially when there is a view. To be honest, these moments are the kind of moments you will be missing when you experience them. When you are awake at that time of the day.. looking at the beauty of nature before sunrise, feeling the cold breeze of the morning air.. and stretching every inch of your body to move. Well, just don't think you chose it over sleeping then you'll do good. Haha!
morning view at a cliff
So, as we continue to go through the trail, it was all smooth and clear paths going up which means even if you are on the tail of the group, getting back is not that hard to do. With that said, ready your legs and feet as they will be going to work intensely.
As per my personal experience, one of the most challenging things for me here was going through those LONG inclined areas continuously. As to my previous hikes, I was used to using my hands as well, distributing some of the weight there. Here, your legs and feet are your best friend so don't forget to do those "leg days" for those of you who are working out before going here. There was even a point that I wanted to use my hands too just to move forward giving you some idea how inclined a few areas can be.. But that's just me. ;)
inclined trail
With just an hour and some minutes of hiking, you'll arrive near the top which offers some beautiful spots that are great to be captured by your cameras. Below are a couple of samples and more can be seen on the video at the bottom.
semi silhouette shot
after the fire scene
The summit will give you a whole 360 degrees obstruction-free overlooking view with different horizons. Feel free to select from the mountainous range of cordillera, city jungle of Metro Manila, or the close cliffs nearby from the other summits.
You made it Josh!
The spacious summit above even has more surprises. It has this dramatic dead tree that we took an effort on taking pictures with. More photos in the video at the bottom.
photogenic dead tree
And played with the sun (yes, the sun) while it rises from the horizon.
*anime music in the background * lol
hadouken
I conquered Mt. Parawagan pose
Feel free to take everything in here as the wind roughly blows to your body and feel rested after that grueling ascend. Make sure to take your time and appreciate all the views here.. you can even congratulate yourselves on making it all the way here as it is not every day you'll achieve something like this, right?
My brother even had this cool idea of having this semi-formal themed photoshoot up there. Crazy but that is what makes our world a little bit interesting in some way we cannot fathom. lol!
sponsored by.. (haha!)
Anyways, don't forget that you have to go back down again on the same trail so make sure to gather all your energy up there and use it on your way down. Was it worthy? Of course! To be honest, our expectations before were just as high as the clouds so we were kind of looking forward to it too much that it came to a point which it was not helping anymore. But hey, if you are looking for a perfect place for that trail run training or a great mountain to go with your friends who are just beginners, I highly recommend this place.
where are you going ghorl?
Too bad I was not yet video recording our adventures at that time and the drone unit I was borrowing was not yet available. That would be so epic! Looking forward to going back here if the opportunity presents itself but for now, let me provide you with this video I made.
I hope this gives you at least the vibe and some inspirational shots you can do if you are planning to visit this mountain anytime soon.
If you cannot see the video above, click HERE for it
Related climbs: (All can be done on the same jump-off point)
version 1:1. Mt. Pamitinan2. Mt. Binacayan3. Mt. Hapunan Banoi
version 2:4. Mt. Lagyo5. Mt. Susong Dalaga6. Mt. Parawagan - THIS
others:7. Mt. Kapananan
