Ever since I started hiking on trails and climbing mountains in my province, I always come back home fulfilled and rewarded by its view of the peak. It makes me feel I’m on top of the world (literally and figuratively), which the reason why I became addicted to trekking and climbing. Their views are more beautiful than the other, grand over the other, but as long as it’s a mountain “matic’ I’m in love with it.
Now here comes Licos Peak, a peak I just climbed. Anticipating the breathtaking views on top made this climb exciting just like the other. But little did I except, Licos Peak gave me another reason to fall in love with mountains: its formidable steepness, the challenges along the way, and the physical aspect it requires me to get to the top: my hand grip, the force I applied to my feet and my balance.
The journey/The trail.
It was already 9 o’clock when we arrived at the jump-off area. From the town center of Danao, we had to ride a “habal-habal”/motorbike to Licos Day Care Center. I checked my time and couldn’t help but worry that Mr. Sun would grill us, but thanks to the lush vegetation of the mountain, we were protected against the sun's blazing heat.
Going to Licos Peak, requires someone to be very observant of the trail. At the base of the mountain, one should check signs on which way to go. There were bright colors sprayed on random rocks but they are spaced apart so you will be confused about where to head next, especially since there are plenty of trails along the way. Let me add, the path is covered with dried leaves which made it too confusing!
The technique is, just to listen to the peak’s calling.
And no worries anymore once you find the established path going up.
The Climb.
Licos has become my top favorite since I stepped on this mountain.
The terrain is rocky and so steep. It is about 70 to 80 degrees. This is the only mountain I climbed in the province demanding every ounce of my strength, precise placing of my feet, and strong grip on the branches and rocks I passed by.
Besides the steep terrain, the ground itself covered with dried leaves imposed a challenge. There were times I crawled because the path was slippery and dry.
We were catching our breath heavily as we were ascending on top! (And yet still smiling)
About 75% of the journey we reached a boulder of rock where we stopped and rested for a while, a sight for weary legs. Hooh. As I looked down, I released a grin as I already had an idea of what to do as we descended. I’d be sliding! Haha.
From this point, we continued and was surprised to encounter vines hindering our way. They seemed to be obstacles! But it turned out to be my favorite part as I was able to apply my Tarzan Skill in this part., Haha!
After the vines, it’s time to hop on sharp rocks which means we were nearing the peak!
The breathtaking View!!!
After all the sweat and challenges we encountered, we finally reached the peak!
The long and hard climb was finally rewarded by this beautiful view. The peak seemed to be a crown seat prepared for climbers who climbed the peak to seek its majestic view.
I sat there and I could feel my vertigo attack as I looked down. I knew that with my wrong move, a misstep meant disaster. Yet I savor the moment that I could sit there and have full access to the breathtaking panoramic view of Danao!
The stretch of greenery, the mountains, and the horizon had left me in awe again! How could Mother Nature be this tranquil and beautiful?
We lingered on the peak for a few hours and enjoyed our, lunch there! We were having and had a wonderful exchange of conversation about our work and about climbing!
Licos Peak was a complete adventure. And I’d love to come again! Every step was a test of skill, endurance and fulfillment.
📚She is a public school Teacher on weekdays, a Jill of all trades on weekends, outdoorsy on holidays, a mother, and a blogger in between. 😉
🍃She's in love with nature and the simple life of the countryside. As a lifelong learner, as she is, she is attracted to learning opportunities and growth. ❤️Join her as she shares life's simple joy and its beauty through traveling, exploring nature, the wonders of creating things through some of her DIY, the good things about countryside life, a glimpse of being a Public School Teacher, and more! If her content makes your heart smile, please leave an upvote, comment, or reblog.🤗
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