Mountaineering Adventure at La Trinidad, Benguet

Happy Monday hivers! How is everyone doing as another work week started? Don't you also get enough of the weekend? That time of the week that every one of us is looking forward to taking a break. Most of us prefer on packing our backpacks and going wherever our wandering feet may take us. Today I would gladly share with you my previous travel to the northern province of Luzon. This place is popular with tourists because of its massive production of fresh and affordable vegetables. Also, known for its lush strawberry farms, people can get to experience the strawberry picking on their own. Today, I'll be taking you virtually to La Trinidad, Benguet.

From Manila, we rode a Victory Liner Bus that took us 6 hours to arrive at Baguio City. And from there, we took a 15-minute jeepney to our target destination. Along the way, I got the chance to have a glimpse of the town's famous colorful houses. In my utter amazement, I whispered WOW on how beautiful it looks in person.

This time, I and my friends have a detour of what is commonly enjoyed this town has to offer. We did not visit the strawberry farms as most tourists do. Instead, we climbed a mountain. It's not our first time climbing mountains. It is always our way of hanging out with each other. A quick weekend escapade to exercise our feet and stretch those lazy muscles that have long been stagnant in sitting in the office for quite a while. We will visit Mount Kalugong this time.

Mesmerized by the stunning overlooking view of the landscape of Benguet.

We first registered our names at the Barangay Hall which is mandatory for all the mountaineers. There was no need for a tour guide because it was just a minor climb anyway. As we started our ascent, we were welcomed by the tall pine trees that gently dance with the murmuring winds. It was kinda refreshing.

My two friends, Dian and Daryl walking ahead of me.

We took a 5-minute rest as we passed on the wooden tables and chairs, perfect for relaxing.

It was like finding the perfect spot for our souls to somehow intimately reconnect with nature. To breathe in its immense stillness. As the wind rustled the pine trees in unison and the chirping of the birds, were all that it takes for nature to gently played music that soothes our weariness.

There was also a swing which I immediately and happily sat on. How perfect that moment was on not worrying about anything. It awakens the inner child in me that was in a deep slumber as adulting started to slap me.

Me and my inner child within.

There was also this tiny cottage, too cute, not to take pictures too.

It was indeed a stress-free trip together with my two friends. And upon reading the signage that was hanging on the tree, a sudden question butt in my mind. Why can't we just freeze the moment?

Of course, life is not meant for that. We always have to move forward and see what life has in store ahead for us. And so was our climb. As we reached the summit, the beautiful hello of the stunning overlooking scenery of Benguet greeted us. It was all worth the climb. It was not just our physical health that was exercised, but the camaraderie and friendship that was built for years were once again strengthened. As they say, the mountains may always be there, but the people we climb with them may not always be there. So cherish each moment with them, no matter how difficult the climb may be, remember we always have a friend to stare at life's awesome perspective from the top.

The day ended up with a beautiful sunset view from my seat on the bus on our way back home to Manila. It was a short yet awesome weekend indeed.

Thank you hivers for reading my blog. To more mountains with you!