It is easier to go down a hill than up it but the view is much better at the top - Henry Ward Beecher
Famous as the evacuation area in World War II, this mountain is characterized by its unique rock formations and challenging caves. Nature trekkers and mountain climbers find a good spot at the top, albeit rough and sharp, to see a vista of Bukidnon’s grandeur as it offers a free, panoramic view of the nearby mountains and the acres of rice and cornfields. (source Wikipidea.org)
This 793-meter mountain, a favorite workout hike of Malaybalay locals, is right at the middle of Bukidnon, offering awesome views of the three great ranges of Central Mindanao: the Kitanglad Range, the Kalatungan Range, and the Piapayungan Range. Mt. Capistrano in Sitio Binalbagan, Purok 9, Brgy. Simaya is the most prominent minor summit visible in the highways of Malaybalay City. As a nature lover, I surely didn't want to miss what Capistrano has to offer.
To start your trek to the summit, you must need to register at Villaruz's residence and pay for an environmental fee worth 20.00. The trail is subdivided into five different parts:
1. The 300 - Step Staircase Assault
The first leg to start your trek is the 300 step cemented staircase. (Yes, I counted it upon going down). Make sure to catch your breath, take each step slowly and take your time
2. 70 - 80 degree uphill climb
If finishing the stairs was easy for you, the next phase of the trail can be somewhat challenging. The open trail can be tiring as it offer a straight uphill climb, but thanks to the installed rope that can alleviate your struggle and can support you when you are tired.
3. Into the woods
Another challenging part of the trail is the steep forest as this one is always wet. Your balancing skill will be tested here as this part is slippery. Your savior here are the twigs and woods that you can cling on and save your mud-sliding moments.
4. Rock, Baby Rock
You can tell that you are near the summit when you reach this point. It is not the most challenging part of the trail but sharp rocks can be abrasive. However the lime stones are not slippery, so having a secure grip on them can help your way out. There are also plain areas along this trail, where most campers pitch their tents. If one wishes to stay overnight, you just inform at the registration area.
5. Summit
After the 1-2 hours of climbing depending on your stamina, the exhilarating view of Bukidnon where you can see the other mountain ranges and the green rice fields awaits you to relax your inner soul. Not to mention the awesome rock formations where you can post for your "life - endangering" shots.
Trail difficulty: 4/9, perfect for beginners and day hike tours.
Total trekking time: 3-4 hours; back trail depending on one's physical capability.
How to get here?
From Malaybalay City:
take a south bound bus or Multicab. Drop off at Brgy. Aglayan then hire a habal-habal to Sitio Binalbagan, Brgy. Simaya. Travel time is around 15 - 20 minutes
From Agora terminal, Cagayan de Oro City:
take a south bound bus. Drop off at Brgy. Aglayan, Malaybalay then hire a habal-habal to Sitio Binalbagan, Brgy. Simaya. Travel time is around 2- 3 hours. From Ecoland Terminal, Davao City:
take a CDO-bound bus. Drop off at Brgy. Aglayan, Malaybalay then hire a habal-habal to Sitio Binalbagan, Brgy. Simaya. Travel time is around 5 hours
there are also available day tours from Davao. Like for us we joined the day tour organized by IndebtedSoul Trail Adventures. You may visit there Facebook account @IndebtedSoul Trail Adventures.
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