The Ridge of Mt. Tarak

Crossing out Mt. Samat and Dunsulan Falls on my list as I was able to get a visit them earlier that day.  Kristal and I rode a bus heading Mariveles Bataan where the famous Mt. Tarak Ridge is located.

I was checking myself if I was tired enough not to continue to Tarak Ridge and honestly I was.  But whenever I imagine myself summiting the mysterious mountain, it gives me adrenalin to conquer it this time.

Tarak Ridge is located in Mariveles, Bataan and stands at 1130 MASL. Tarak rised its name from the word “Tarik” (Steep) and “Tabak” (Hunting knife.

(Check my account on my first attempt to summit Mt. Tarak Ridge: https://joeyinwanderland.wordpress.com/2014/03/08/theunaccomplishedcalling/ )

 

Meet Cris and Darwin (Guide and Porter)

We started trekking at 2:30pm.  I got the familiar feeling while walking on the trail of Mt. Tarak. I was even telling myself at that time; it’ll be a long walk again. In our itinerary, we will summit the mountain the earlier the next day.  We will camp near the Papaya River for water source and to make it easier to summit the mountain the next day.  Though, the idea of camping at the ridge of Mt. Tarak is tempting, I have to consider that our guides do not have a tent. It’ll be a very cold night for them, in case.

As we reach the familiar campsite, we decided to pitch a tent right away and rest.

Darwin and Cris made their own resting place near our tent in a very creative manner! Thought of doing this as a survival technique. hehe

Darwin and Cris building their own resting place

Several animals living in this mountain which is actually a good sign.

Monitor Lizard found near our tent (There were even Musangs surrounding the campsite)

We woke up the next day at 3:30am.  Cris will be our guide to the summit and Darwin will remain in the campsite to watch our things.

Since it is too early and dark, I wasn’t able to see the trail clearly. It was a rooty trail I may say.

The Rooty Trail of Mt. Tarak Ridge

There were also trail signs telling the right trail.  Just beware of the ribbons before reaching the Papaya river because most of it are pointing to the wrong trail.

We are in full assault before we reach the ridge. It’s nearly 6am when we reached the clearing!

Sa wakas! Clearing na din!!

Here’s to my sweet come back! 

The Ridge

Beautiful Sunrise at the Ridge

After savoring the beautiful sunrise, we continued going to the summit of Mt. Tarak.

Mark of Summit – World Tree

The fog started to cover the summit. Cold breeze wind is giving us spine chilly morning. I was imagining camping at the ridge doubling the temperature we are experiencing that morning, I wouldn’t have been able to sleep the whole night!

There were signs of rain so we decided to go down as soon as possible.

The steep trails in which you can hold on to branches and roots for support.

Papaya River

Felt home again.

Darwin and Cris prepared our breakfast while Tal and I are packing up.

The house pass the jump-off is offering their bathroom in case you want to take a shower for only P20.00.  They also offer cooking for the group and they are selling other stuff like soda.

I may have not been successful the first time I went to Mt. Tarak Ridge, the most important thing is that, I didn’t give up. My Bataan Adventure was indeed a success! Truly, things are sweeter the second time around.

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Breakdown of Expenses

Highway to Brgy. Alas Asin – P75.00

Registration Fee – P40.00

Brgy. Alas-asin – Cubao – P279.00

For guide contacts, here’s their number: 

Darwin – 09483496829

Cris – 09481206687