Nueva Vizcaya (Dec. 2024)

2024 Year End Hike at Mt. Tugew, Nueva Vizcaya

December 29, 2024 Sunday

For my year end hike, I have decided to join a trip to Nueva Vizcaya.

And I also invited my best friend Marcelo. Fortunately, he said Yes.

So on a rainy Saturday night, we met at Greenfield and a van picked us up there.

It was an almost 7 hour trip going to our destination. And I just took advantage of that time to get some sleep.

At 5 am, we reached the barangay hall of Alang Salacsac, Kayapa.

We had our morning coffee and a brief orientation before started our hike at 7 in the morning. 

It was cold and windy going up. 

Happy to meet new people along the trail. 

We took unlimited photos and videos and it was just a chill hike - literally and figuratively.

Hiking Mt. Tugew gave me the feel of hiking Mt. Ulap.

It was really cold and the initial part of the trail was filled with pine trees and cows too!

The sky was clear and the clouds were moving low and fast.

It was like a piece of heaven on earth. I was so happy to be back on my favorite playground - on top of mountains. <3

The mountain range was located on an elevated land that’s why Mt. Tugew has a high MASL.

We actually reached two summits.

First was Mt. Cabu and then Mt. Tugew.

We even passed through a historical trail which they named “Spanish trail”. 

During the world war II, it was used as an escaping zone from the Japanese going to Pangasinan. 

Going to the summit of both mountains was super windy. It was the OA kind of wind that can really bring you down if you’re too skinny. 

It was scary because you might fall of the ravine due to strong wind. 

But above all, the landscapes and sceneries wherever you turn are breathtaking and it gives you a sense of peace, calming thoughts.

It was truly amazing to see the clouds just near above you moving fast.

We’ve witnessed a lot of sea of clouds! And at the summit of Mt. Cabo, the province of Pangasinan can clearly be seen at its feet. Countless mountains which are naturally beautiful are perfect backdrop for pictures.

It was also challenging going down still because of strong wind. But thanks to our great tour guides that made our hike easier.

We went back to the jump off area at past lunch time.

We ordered home cooked rice, chicken and veggies for lunch. And it was a very sumptuous meal for all of us.

As usual it was tiring but definitely all of us had so much fun!

This was a perfect way, we for me, to end the year just right.

This also reminded me that despite the challenges and hardships we’ve gone through this year, somehow it still ends beautifully. 

Thank you Lord God for your wonderful creation that we still get to see, experience and enjoy! 

All glory to You!

Thank you for the provision (as always) and for the safe travels (as always as well). 

Happy New Year!