Looking for a great activity you and your dad can bond over this coming Father’s Day? Spending  time out in nature may just be the perfect gift you can give to him, as hiking is not only beneficial for our health, but it can also strengthen your relationship with your father as you two go on a quick adventure for the Father’s Day weekend. This is your chance to get to know each other while at the same time be closer to nature and appreciate the beauty it has to offer. 

 

Mapping out a hike can be overwhelming with all the scenic hiking trails you can pick from; especially to those who are new to the game. So let us be your guide in planning out your Father’s Day hike with this list of hiking trails that we have prepared just for you! 

 

 

Our Top Hiking Trail Picks

 

Photo from: Klook

 

 

1. Masungi Georeserve

Tucked in the rainforests of Rizal, Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and a geological park that is great for those who are wishing for an escape from the bustling roads of Metro Manila. Masungi has unique limestone karsts; giving the hikers a picturesque view that they can take in along their journey. Masungi’s Discovery Trail offers a thrilling hiking experience as a series of obstacles awaits the hikers. The hike can last up to 3-4 hours depending on the hiker’s pace.

 

How far from Metro Manila: 2 hours travel time, might take longer depending on traffic conditions and other factors. 

 

Difficulty: Depending on the fitness of the hiker, can be challenging to those who have no prior experience and are scared of heights; but there’s breaks along the way that will help you through it.

 

Cost: 

P1,800 - weekend trails 

P1,500 - weekday trails 

Other expenses like food, fare, etc. may vary.

 

You may reserve through their website, as unfortunately no walk-ins are allowed.  A 50% down payment is also needed in order to secure your slot.

Photo from: hiketomountains.com

 

 

2. Mt. Batulao

Mt. Batulao is a very popular beginner hiking trail just a few hours away from Manila. Located in Nasugbu, Batangas, Mt. Batulao offers the hikers a panoramic view of its beautiful green grasslands and rolling hills. Its name is derived from the phrase “Bato sa Ilaw” or “Ilaw sa dalawang bato”—in reference to the phenomenon during December where the sun shines through two prominent peaks of the mountain. The trail can last up to 5 hours or even longer, depending on your pace; but fret not, there are camp sites along the way where you can have a quick rest in between. 

 

How far from Metro Manila: 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions and other factors.

 

Difficulty: A moderately challenging route; it’s beginner friendly but can be tricky once you start ascending to the summit. The trail can become quite slippery due to the mud, and there won’t be any protection from the sun. It is an open hike after all, so it’s always best to be prepared! 

 

Cost: 

Barangay and ecotourism fee - P140/pax 

Guide fee - P500/5 pax. 

Other expenses like fare, food, etc. may vary. 

Photo from: hiketomountains.com

 

 

3. Mt. Nagpatong

Mt. Nagpatong is another famous hiking spot located in Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. Nagpatong Rock consists of towering layered limestone formations—hence its name, derived from the Tagalog word “Patong” meaning “to lay on top”. It gives the hikers a picturesque view of the Sierra Madre mountain range once they reach the top, and will give you the chance to take a picture on its most photographed view for you and your Dad’s memoir. If you’d like to relax after the hike,  Tungtong falls is nearby, where you can take a nice and refreshing dip as a reward!

 

How far from Metro Manila: 2 hours or longer depending on traffic conditions. 

 

Difficulty: Depends on the hiker’s experience; might be a little challenging to those who are afraid of heights, especially during your descent. Other factors like rainy weather might affect the hike as well, as the trail can be slippery when wet.

 

Costs: 

Registration Fee - P100 / person

Environmental fee - P30 / person

Guide Fee - P500 to Nagpatong / P700 to Nagpatong-Masungki / P250 to Tungtong Falls (5 pax)

Other expenses like fare, food, etc. may vary

Photo from: Klook

 

 

4. Mt. Maculot

Heading back to Batangas, Mt. Maculot is one of the many famous hiking spots just a drive away from Manila. Located at the heart of Batangas  in the municipality of Cuenca, Mt. Maculot gives the hikers a view of the iconic Taal Lake. Going on a clear day would guarantee you a breathtaking view as it is one of the spots where you can best view the volcano. However, this is not the only thing you can expect going up to Mt. Maculot, as the mountain is also known for its rockies and a grotto along the way where you take a break. 

 

How far from Metro Manila: 2-3 hours depending on the traffic condition.

 

Difficulty: Can be difficult for beginners with no prior experience. The rockies can be steep and slippery on a rainy day, and the descent can be extra challenging with no safety equipment.

 

Costs: 

Registration Fee - P20

Guide Fee (Traverse)  - P800 / 5 pax (P100 excess person)

Other expenses like fare, food, etc. may vary.

Photo from: tripadvisor.com

 

 

5. Mt. Manalmon

Now we’re going to the other side of the Metro and towards the direction of Mt. Manalmon, which is located in San Miguel, Bulacan. When it comes to mountains, Bulacan might not be the first place that comes to people’s mind, but Mt. Manalmon proves us wrong, as it also offers hikers an easy yet breathtaking trail along the way. Surrounded by numerous caves, forests and even a river  en route, Mt. Manalmon is perfect for those who are simply looking to be one with nature. Aside from this, hikers can also enjoy other thrilling activities like caving.

 

How far from Metro Manila: 2 hours from Cubao and another hour to Biak na Bato National Park. 

 

Difficulty: Beginner friendly as the trail mostly consists of moderate slopes and a river along the route. The hike can last up to 3 hours at most, still depending on the hiker’s pace.

 

Costs: 

Registration Fee - P20

Environmental Fee - P10

Guide Fee - P300 / 10 pax 

Other expenses may vary.

Image from lifefulpatty.wordpress.com

 

We want to thank our Fathers for the sacrifices and the love that they have showered us all throughout the years. They deserve to be celebrated through gifts, grand occasions and vacations, and even fun activities like hiking. Hopefully this guide that we prepared for you will help you not only reconnect with your Dad on a deeper level, but also with nature.