Chasing waterfalls series : delightful morning at Bukal falls

A spontaneous plan turn out to be a success.

I was delightfully surprised with a short visit to Bukal Falls. The serenity and the spectacular view is definitely worth the hike to get to the falls. Yes, there was a short hike - but it was all worth it. It is absolutely serene and the place was fantastic.  I was so amazed when I reached the waterfall. It was so beautiful. It was also quite an adventure to swim in the very cold, clear, blue-green,deep, and calm waters amidst nature. I couldn't resist jumping in because it was just too tempting. I will say that the water was shockingly cold but I'm glad I jumped in. I will definitely be back - and maybe stay a little longer.

Bukal Falls is beautiful and If you love nature this is the place that you can reconnect with yourself. But be sure to visit it on a weekday so you can enjoy your spot at the falls.

To get there, there is a bus from LRT/Buendia or Cubao to Santa Cruz, Laguna.Once you reach Sta cruz, you can either ride a jeep bound to Majayjay and get off at Barangay Bukal or you can directly hire a tricycle and tell the driver you are headed to Barangay Bukal.

I look forward to coming here again next time. 

Gorgeous walk at Mt. Ulap and Hydro Falls

MT. ULAP ECO-TRAIL

Itogon, Benguet

Entry point: Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon

Exit point: Brgy. Sta. Fe, Itogon

LLA: 16.2904 N, 120.6312 E, 1846 MASL (Mt. Ulap)

Days required / Hours to summit: 1 day / 2-3 hours

Specs: Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-3,

Features: Grassland and pine ridges, scenic views of the Cordilleras, burial caves

I love the pictures I have seen from people standing on the edge of a protruding rock that looked like it will break at any moment. Upon my research, I found out that the rock formation is part of the features of Mt Ulap eco-trail. I figured I had to go check it out for myself.  I had wanted to do this hike for awhile, but just never had the opportunity until recently.

7 AM

We started the hike a little later than we anticipated , got there just before 6 am. After the registration and a quick orientation the group started right away. 

The morning air was a little cooler when we started, but as the hike continued, we were definitely sweating.  It is straight uphill from the beginning - On the hike up, you could see beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and the scenery is gorgeous right from the start to finish.

The beginning is a bit challenging- it's a little steep- but once you get to the start of the trail going to the first peak , it is easy with a little danger but with a shaded trail. 

This is a fun hike. It is moderately easy climb but with a longer trail than I expected.   Our group went at a moderate pace with some breaks. 

When we finally reached the Gungal Rock, there was a long line of people wanting to take pictures on the rock. It was a Sunday noon, so I'm sure there would be less people on a weekday. I can see why people would want to give this place a bad review due to the long line but in terms of the actual hike, it was very enjoyable and had great views almost the entire way up and down , so I would say it was worth the hike.

As we were making our way down the mountain, the trail was noticeably more crowded. Plus, it was steeper.  Coming down may have been slightly faster than hiking up the mountain, but it's also scarier because the path gets slippery, just be extra careful from the rocks and some roots jutting out. 

Here are some tips for some of you who plans to hike Ulap. 

Go early. Our group planned to start early on a Sunday. We didn't end up starting until around 7 a.m. So before it gets hot and before the trail gets more crowded start the hike early. Or i suggest Go on a weekday to avoid long lines of people.

Bring enough water and pack light. The sta fe traverse is longer than expected. From the first peak going to Gungal rock it is mostly expose to the sun. 

Take alot of pictures - we had fun with this experience and took photos.