GRUELLING RIDGES AT MT. MEGATONG

Mt. Megatong is where I had my first climb and start to crave more climb thereafter.

Mt. Megatong is the pride of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte. Classified as minor climb with an open trail but it has a difficulty level of 4/9 according to the the guide/s I had talked to. Mt. Megatong is approximately 1,876ft above sea level. When you're at the summit, you can see the scenic view of Kipaliku river.

Going to the summit, we trekked along the relentless ridge for fours hours depending on participant's pacing and traversing Kipaliku river crossing 15 rivers for three hours and ascended to Sitio Talos for another one hour.

Moreover, this mountain is also known for its hidden waterfall located at the center of the mountain. This waterfall is one of the water source in the mountain. The water is clean, fresh, cold and potable.

We found theHidden Waterfall

Furthermore, you have two options in climbing this mountain: first is a day hike, the other one is spending a night at the summit. During our climb, we chose to sleep at the summit beneath the starry sky and looking at the city lights of Davao del Norte at the same time.

Note: Bring your sleeping bag, jackets and socks to protect you from cold weather.

Dinner at the summit of Mt. Megatong

If you want to explore Megatong on a day hike, better bring the following:

1. Sunblock/sunscreen
2. Umbrella
3. Wear a cap
4.Rushguard/windbreaker jacket/rain jacket
5. Liters of water and
6. Anything that will protect your skin from the heat of the sun. It is surely freaking hot.

Some of the rivers you have to cross have strong currents, better  not to walk alone. Cross the river with your co-mountaineers.

Note: Use comfortable durable shoes with good grip that will survive both on difficult trail and long river trek.

Why shoes with good grip? Because of the cliffs Mt. Megatong had and is steep, muddy and slippery.


Prepare yourself to fall on the ground repetitively and your knees for balance. The trail is not easy for beginners. Yeah! It is a minor climb but trust me the trail is difficult and not for beginners.

If you haven't done any mountain climbing activity, and wanted Megatong to be your first mountain to conquer, prepare yourself. Jog  for at least one month before your scheduled climb.

You'll have river trekking for three hours and prepare yourself for a one hour assualt back to Sitio Talos.  

Tip: Use trekking sandals during river trek to free yourself from hassle in removing the sands that  goes through your shoes.
                           
Mt. Megatong is also known for it's wonderful sea of clouds and sunrise depending on the weather condition. 

My first time to see "sea of clouds"

Sunrise at the Summit of Mt. Megatong

📍How to get there?🚗
🚌Ride a bus to Sto. Tomas, meet up with the guide at 7/11 near the Bus Terminal
🛵Ride a sky-lab to the jump-off area- Sitio Talos, San Jose Dvo Del Norte to perform rituals with the Datu.

Budget: P1,500. 00 is enough for your fare, meals, trail foods and registration fee which includes 2 meals: dinner and breakfast.

Things to Bring:

1. Tent
2. Sleeping bag
3. Headlamp/flashlight
4. Windbreaker or rain jacket, at least 1extra socks 

5. Tissue
6. Camera
7. Powerbanks
8. Trail foods (chocolates, jelly ace, raisins, biscuits, cup noodles and coffee)
9. Food and water containers and utensils
10.#ootds para pang awra!
11. Slippers/Trekking Sandals