March 25, 2013; the day after descending Bulusan Volcano, we climbed Mt. Pulog, one of the peaks of the volcanic Pocdol Mountain Ranges. Jhelyn, William and I left Dino’s residence, the place where we spent the night at around 6:00 AM and proceeded to Barangay Sta. Cruz. Around 7:00 after registering at the Barangay Hall, we started trekking gradually inclined terrain passing through coconut farms and pili forests. After an hour we reached a wide tableland, similar to the Sugad Plaza of Mt. Malinao that could be a spacious campsites for large hiking group. At the tableland, the view of the eastern coastline and major peaks of Sorsogon; as well as the islands of Rapu-rapu, Batan and others are very visible.
We then continued trekking… upon entering the woods, there was a very clean water source. After a brief stop to the area, we continued our journey and enjoyed the dense vegetation. I saw 9 types of birds just in an hour! We saw various types of wild plants and flowers that are healthily and proudly clinging to lush tree trunks and branches as well as various insects such as colorful butterflies, dragonflies, crickets, beetles and spiders.
The almost indistinguishable trail that are still covered with shrubs in some parts and free from hiker’s dirt such as plastic bottle, candy wrappers and plastics manifested that the mountain is a new hiking destination. Upon realizing it, there was a feeling of apprehension… I was hoping that this destination shall constantly be given due care by mountaineers, locals and barangay officials to preserve its pristine condition.
We arrived at the summit at around 11:00 AM. We were mesmerized by the beauty and calmness of the prehistoric crater… as if no thunderous volcanic explosion happened long time ago in the area. The crater rim is covered by dense forest while the middle the water on the lake at its center is very clear.
The almost indistinguishable trail that are still covered with shrubs in some parts and free from hiker’s dirt such as plastic bottle, candy wrappers and plastics manifested that the mountain is a new hiking destination. Upon realizing it, there was a feeling of apprehension… I was hoping that this destination shall constantly be given due care by mountaineers, locals and barangay officials to preserve its pristine condition.
We arrived at the summit at around 11:00 AM. We were mesmerized by the beauty and calmness of the prehistoric crater… as if no thunderous volcanic explosion happened long time ago in the area. The crater rim is covered by dense forest while the middle the water on the lake at its center is very clear.
We did not went down at the crater floor to explore the area because we were amazed and charmed by the picturesque view which was further heightened by the dramatic the rugged terrain of the other parts of Pocdol Mountain Ranges; as well as by the downhill scenery of the province of the city of Sorsogon. Furthermore, we likewise enjoyed seeing the major mountain peaks of Sorsogon and Albay such as Bulusan, Juban, Mayon and others.
We stayed at the summit for an hour to rest and enjoy our packed lunch until 1:00 PM. Then, descended and reached the trailhead at around 2:30 PM. After extending gratitude to members of Dino’s family, we moved to Legazpi City for our next adventure, the Mayon Exploration.
We stayed at the summit for an hour to rest and enjoy our packed lunch until 1:00 PM. Then, descended and reached the trailhead at around 2:30 PM. After extending gratitude to members of Dino’s family, we moved to Legazpi City for our next adventure, the Mayon Exploration.