A buwis-buhay climb to Mt. Arayat (with 3 Peaks/Summit). We got this invite from our friend Jurish. Again, we immediately said yes.
For beginners like us, this climb was really a big leap. Our only experience in hiking was our hike at Taal Volcano and with that hike we were really exhausted. Taal volcano has a difficulty level of 2(out of 9) while Mt.Arayat is a 6. So, we can only expect that we will be experiencing three times the exhaustion and hopefully three times the fun as well.
For beginners like us, this climb was really a big leap. Our only experience in hiking was our hike at Taal Volcano and with that hike we were really exhausted. Taal volcano has a difficulty level of 2(out of 9) while Mt.Arayat is a 6. So, we can only expect that we will be experiencing three times the exhaustion and hopefully three times the fun as well.
Our experience here is one of a kind, we had to push ourselves to the limit. Aside from its natural difficult trail, it was made worse because of the aftermath of a typhoon, Fallen trees, broken branches and after-effect landslides were some of obstacles we faced. The worst part was that there was no source of drinking water in this mountain. Thankfully, most of the trail were shaded.
We already wanted to give up before reaching the first peak but fortunately we didn't because the view from the first peak made it all worth it. A view of Central Luzon and Pampanga River.
Peak 2 was a descend from Peak 1 so this was less difficult than the first peak. It also had an astonishing view. Just like the view in Peak 1, a view of snake-like Pampanga river can be seen.
Going to the third peak was the most dangerous because of the cliffs beside the trail and the only way to reach the top was to hold & step on the roots of the trees. One false move and you;ll fall. It was like wall climbing with no harness and no assurance that the root you are holding on is strong enough to carry your weight. It was really scary.
From the third peak of Mt. Arayat you can see the first and the second peak. there was this sense of accomplishment. We were able to make it this far. For us, this was the best peak. It was as if this peak was especially made for viewing purposes. Thus, it was known as the viewing deck.
To sum it up, it was exhausting, tiring and super fun experience but most importantly we made new friends!
Meeting Place.
Jump-off place.
The Team! (Sir Jhino took this shot C= )
To Registration!
To Peak 1!
At last, we reached Mt. Arayat's Peak 1 after 4 hours of grueling assault climb.
We also had our lunch here.
To Peak 2!
Mt. Arayat's Peak 2!
To Peak 3!
Finally, we've reached the last peak! Peak 3!
A view of Mt. Arayat's Peak 1 and Peak 2 from peak 3. Peak 1 is the highest peak(near the upper-center) while peak 2 is the stone peak(middle left).
To Viewing Deck!
The viewing deck.
Mt. ARAYAT (MAGALANG-ARAYAT TRAVERSE)
Pampanga
Entry point: Brgy. Ayala, Magalang, Pampanga
Exit point: Brgy. Juan Bano, Arayat, Pampanga
LLA: 15.2067N, 120.7441E, 1030 MASL
Days required / Hours to summit: 1-2 days / 5 hours (NP) 8 hours (SP)
Specs: Major climb, Difficulty 5/9, Trail class 1-4 (10kms)
(source: http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2008/09/mt-arayattraverse-1030.html)
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