Are you looking for a mountain to hike this weekend but don’t want to go far from the metro? Or are you planning to hike with your friends who are beginners and do not know where to go? If you agree in any of those two, then you’re on the right track.
Mt. Balagbag is located in Sitio Balagbag, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. It’s categorized as a minor climb, has a difficulty level of 3/9 and stands 777 MASL. It’s best for someone who wants to try outdoor activities such mountain climbing and chasing waterfalls. It is good for camping since the summit is very spacious and has a lot of campsite to choose. It also serves as a training ground for both riders of bicycle and motorcycle who wants additional adventure.
From EDSA Cubao, ride a bus going to Tungko, Bulacan which will cost around P50 or more. Drop off at the Tungko Jeep Terminal where you need to ride a jeep going to Licao-Licao. Fare is around P32. The estimated travel time is 2.5 hours.
This mountain gained its popularity due to cheaper budget needed either you’re a solo hiker or in a group and very accessible. Some people dubbed it as “Mt. Pulag of Bulacan” because of its grassy slopes all throughout the trail. The trail is very visible and not misleading that’s why getting a tour guide is not mandatory. There’s a lot of resting area where you can take a rest, eat your meal (LNT) and take a nap if possible. The trail is very exposed to the scorching heat of the sun so better wear a cloth with long sleeves, bring a light umbrella, a cap or just a sunblock and enough water supply.
You’ll have no problems in riding a bus going to Tungko because there is plenty of them in EDSA. The jeepney bound to Licao-Licao however has a “punuan” scheme where it would only take off if it already met the maximum number of passengers. The jeepneys are already waiting for passengers as early as 5:00 AM.
Once the jeepney has dropped you off, pay the registration fee for P10 each. Then, you can start trekking up until the jump-off or you can opt for a (bumpy) tricycle ride for 10 minutes which costs P30 each.
A lot of mountain bikers love Mt. Balagbag as well because of this challenging and rocky trail.
It can be very hot when it’s sunny because there are not much trees that can cover you from the heat. Thus, it is recommended to hike Mt. Balagbag before the sun rises or sets.
After 20 minutes of trekking, you will reach the “Welcome to Mt. Balagbag” sign. The locals have put some reminders for the hikers such as no littering, no vandalism, no drugs, etc.
Follow the trail and you will reach another stop after 30 minutes. You can sit and buy snacks here. We paid P20 per head because going further means passing a private property. Going back to my friends who went here during the weekend, they paid P50 each
You will reach the summit after 30 minutes of trekking. The beautiful Sierra Madre will welcome you and will feast your eyes.
Experience the majestic views of Rizal, Bulacan, and Metro Manila all at once in Mt. Balagbag. Mountain ranges in the morning and city lights at night could never go wrong together. You can enjoy all these while sipping a fresh cup of coffee at the summit.