2020 has caused us to become deprived of things that we wanted to try. And this year, as things are slowly getting back to normal — with the help of the COVID-19 vaccines — there’s no stopping us to go out and try outdoor recreations.

Mountaineering has undoubtedly captured the hearts of this generation when not too long ago, this active recreation was even considered uncommon, or in the Philippines at least. But these days, with our generation being more into travelling and exploring — or into “soul—searching”, we can hear most of us say that mountains are here to help us heal and find ourselves. That simply reaching the peak of a mountain has been proven cathartic and blessedly escapist, as you see the perfect view of God’s creation and how this tells us there’s more beautiful things in life than succumbing to ennui and despair.

And if you too, are an adventurous being who are into hiking, or other outdoor activities that include the nature, you might want to check these hiking spots just near the metro for an easy and safer access!

Mt. Batulao - 693 MASL

Mount Batulao is an inactive stratovolcano in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines, located in northwest Batangas province along its border with Cavite. Mt. Batulao is a long and winding hike along bare trails which during the hot summer months would really give you the hardest times. It has some difficult parts or what they call assaults which require certain navigational skills but would definitely prepare newbies to take on more difficult hikes in your future hikes.

Mt. Batolusong – 780 MASL

Batolusong as it's just 2 hours away from Metro Manila. It is one of the most popular mountains and beginner-friendly for hiking in Philippines. The views are very scenic and have Batanes-like grasslands and rolling hills. It is just one of the many potential hiking destinations in Tanay, since the town is part of the southern tail-end of the Sierra Madre — the longest mountain range in the Philippines.

Mt. Gulugodbaboy - 470 MASL, 485 MASL, and 525 MASL

There is confusion regarding where the real “Gulugod-Baboy” is. From SE to NW (from Brgy. San Teodoro to Brgy. Laurel), there are three peaks in the range. The first is 470 MASL, the second is 485 MASL, and the third is 525 MASL. This third has a large, ancient tree as its landmark, and is known to mountaineers as the real Gulugod Baboy. You can also chill and enjoy your relaxing time at the beach after a fun hike in Mt. Gulugod Baboy. It is a relatively short and easy hike but is one you shouldn’t really underestimate. It offers one the impeccable views of the coastlines of Batangas particularly the pebble stone beaches of Anilao.

Mt. Daraitan – 739 MASL

Also situated in Tanay, Rizal, Mt. Daraitan is considered as a minor hike but for the fainthearted it definitely isn’t. Its straightforward trail consist of rocky terrains will definitely make you drop to your knees. Making it through to the summit might prove to be a real challenge but the rewarding view at its peak is definitely worth the effort.

Mt. Kulis – 620 MASL

Mt. Kulis jump-off can be found at Fresno Agro Forestry and Eco Tourist Campsite and it’s located at Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. This hike is also a minor climb, hence, appropriate for beginners. The summit of Mt. Kulis  is Cardo Dalisay’s meeting place in a popular teleserye “Ang Probins’yano”. Locals said kubo at the summit was purposedly built by the team, while the other one is being renovated where hikers can rest or even pitch their tent at night. Comfort room and sari-sari store is also located at the summit. The most awaited part of the hikers is the “sea of clouds" in the morning, where possibility is high when there’s more precipitation at night and less wind speed in the morning.

Now that you have a list of a best hiking spots near the Metro, please do not forgot to still observe safety precautions as COVID-19 pandemic is still pestering the country. So make sure to always bring your face mask, alcohol, and practice hand hygiene frequently.