by: Maria Jeona Collado
First of all, if you are from the lowlands or outside the Philippines, you probably wonder what KALUGONG means. “Kalugong” is the Ilocano term for “a hat.” The most exciting part of this hike is reaching the rocky mountain. Once you get closer, you can see the hat-shaped rock formation, which is the peak. This is where they based the name “Mt. Kalugong.” It is easy to climb through the rocks; just be extra careful and wear proper shoes. You don’t want to go home with scratches.
Anyway, before going there,
buy your snacks or meals.
We went there at 7am without eating breakfast.
They have a coffee shop there, but we were worried that it is close.
So we just
bought Jollibee breakfast meals and coffee.
To get there, take a “Tomay” jeepney. If
you come from Baguio, you can take the jeepney either at the city hall or
Baguio Center mall. When you ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance, he
will ask you two choices: taking the difficult trail or the short cut. Well,
shortcut is the best choice. Though it is the shortcut, going up is still
challenging because of the steep road—not easy for amateur hikers. Just follow
the road since there are no signboards. But, you don’t need to ask anybody since there is only one road that can lead you to the peak. Adventure is more fun.
As you go along, you
will come across a tower. There is nothing special about this, but it can
be helpful on your search for the peak.
Actually, the roads are newly constructed and some parts are
still under construction, making things easier for the visitors. It is also a
great place to go jogging or walking if you live near. The air is refreshing;
you‘ll surely enjoy your healthy routine here. If I lived here, I would go
jogging every day.
At the end of the
newly constructed road is the entrance to Mt. Kalugong. It will welcome you
with this signboard—finally, there is a signboard!
