Go where you feel most alive.
Without a second thought, it is the mountain where we wish we could be at any time. The fresh air, the scenic views, and the peace of mind whenever we reach the summit. There is no better feeling when at the top!
In this hiking guide, we will share with you the details of Mt. 387 to help you plan your next climb!
Table of Contents
About Mt. 387
Mt. Batong Amat or its popular name Mt. 387 is situated in Carranglan, Nueva Ecija and form part of the Caraballo mountain ranges. The name 387 is derived from the total hectares of land that it covers.
It has an elevation of 761masl and is considered a minor climb with difficulty level 2/9 for backtrail and can go as high as 4/9 doing the traverse. The average climb duration is 2 – 3 hours but is still dependent on your pacing.
How to Get to Mt. 387
Public transportation may not be available during the pandemic, the ideal way to get to the jump-off point in Carranglan, Nueva Ecija is by private car.
- Use waze and search for Mt. 387 Hiking Station.
- Follow the route passing through NLEX, SCTEX and CLLex.
- Continue driving the stretch of Sto. Domingo – Licab Road and passing through Talavera, Muñoz, San Jose.
- Follow the Maharlika Hiway until you reach Carranglan, Nueva Ecija.
- Watch out for the landmark Iglesia ni Cristo Chapel and see the sign board going to registration area.
- Estimated travel time is 3.5 – 4 hours from Manila.
The Hike
The plan is to reach the summit and camp before sunset. We started trekking at 3 pm carrying our backpacks and tents passing through flat surfaces followed by verdant tropical forest surrounded by towering trees.
The trail is well established and there are resting stops along the way. Getting the rhythm, we continued our trek and began to pass through the gradient and more challenging pathway.
The assault is a combination of ascent, flat, and some steep trail. While the overall trail is handy, we heard some rumbling and flashes nearby. The clouds are forming and it’s only a matter of time until the rain pours in. We pulled out our rain covers and raincoats and sped up ahead.
It was cold but at the same time relaxing. The rain is nowhere to stop anytime soon, we continued and hope to reach the summit the quickest time possible and sip a hot coffee or noodles to warm us.
Past 5 pm, we reached the summit with almost zero visibility. Other hikers have already put up their tents and we found our spot under the tree.
No sunset, but we’re thankful we are all safe and made it to the summit. We cooked our dinner, indulged, and celebrated the night with hilarity and tales before we finally treated ourselves to a night of good sleep.
Camping and Sunrise
Oftentimes, we prefer doing overnight and camping to ensure we have ample time to explore and enjoy the summit.
We didn’t see the sunset but we were blessed with pleasant weather and a sunrise view over the mountains. We seized the moment and enjoy every second of it watching the green landscapes and overlooking views.
What’s more exciting when camping is having your favorite breakfast while enjoying the morning breeze.
Chocolate Hills of the North
At the summit of Mt. 387, the scenic landscape that is nicknamed the “Chocolate Hills of the North” can be seen. The conical hills resemble that of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills that are covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season.
The beautiful backdrop is remarkable that everyone would love to get a photo or two as a memento!
Rock Formations and Nest
The summit is already picture-perfect but the beautiful rock formations; nest and other appealing spots around are equally stunning. It is almost automatic to get yourself some photos.
Cogon grass is native to Mt. 387’s extensive grassland and provides extra charm especially when the flowers are blossoming.
Lover’s Tree
The famous lone tree or the Lover’s Tree as they call it is also a highlight at the summit. It is near the campsite so you won’t be able to miss it.
Backtrail
Our group decided to do backtrail. It means we are going to descend over the same trail. We wanted to try the traverse to Aloha Falls but the idea of riding the monster truck is irresistible!
We made it back to the jump-off point quicker than expected and waited for the monster truck to get us to Aloha Falls.
Monster Truck and Aloha Falls
If you are looking for a thrilling ride, then this one is for you!
For a Php30 one-way fee, you will get to experience a roller-coaster bumpy ride crossing rough roads and rivers. The ride will last for 15 – 20 minutes and drop you off at the start of the trail going to Aloha Falls.
The trek is around 20 minutes mostly river crossing and passing through riverbank. The water current is just right and since it rained yesterday, we expected a more fluid and enchanting Aloha Falls. And it is exactly that!
Aloha Falls is perfect to re-energize and treat our exhausted bodies. The water is cold but just fitting for swimming.
It was mid-afternoon when we returned to the jump-off point, get showered, and packed up.
The overall experience in Mt. 387 is fulfilling and fun. We had a good road trip from Manila passing through scenic roads. The trail is ideal even for beginners and there are several stunning spots that you will love not to mention the other thrilling activities like riding the monster truck going to Aloha Falls and river crossing.
If you love the outdoor and to immerse in nature, Mt. 387 should be included on your list! Highly recommended and 100% sure you won’t regret getting here!
Registration Fee – Php90
Overnight Guide Fee – Php700
Things to Know
- Mt. 387 is ideal for beginners but physical and mental preparedness is still to be considered.
- A photocopy of vaccination card is required as of September 2021.
- Riding the monster truck and going to Aloha Falls is dependent on the weather condition. For safety, avoid going to Aloha Falls when there are typhoons and heavy rain.
- Tree planting activities may not be available at all times and dependent also with the weather.
- Observe and practice social distancing
- Wear your facemask
- Wear proper hiking attire
- Bring enough water
- Bring cash with you.
- Bring enough food for your camping and trail food
- Bring first aid kit with you for emergency
- Always listen to your guide for your safety
- Do not litter
- Always practice the Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles
- Enjoy and keep safe!
