Tarak Ridge, Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

Tarak Ridge – Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide + Tips)

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Story & Photos

Climb Guide

TARAK RIDGE IN MT. MARIVELES

Tarak Ridge is part of Mt. Mariveles on its west side. Mt. Mariveles is located in Mariveles, Bataan with its jump-off at Brgy. Alas-asin. The ridge is the reason for mountaineers to climb because of its scenic landscape, rugged cliff, and strong winds. I don’t know why, but this place reminded me of the Isle of Sky that I’ve seen on YouTube.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

My cousin Darryl invited me to join their climb to Tarak Ridge of their group called 1Nature Mountaineers. This was my next climb after my challenging climb in Mt. Pulag. I thought I would not be able to climb again because of my back problems. I thought it was not a good idea to push myself or else the problem will get worse.  But, I miss the outdoors and still want to do many things, If I let my back problem hinder me from attaining my goals, it will crush me. Fortunately, I went to 2 medical check-ups and the doctors told me that it was okay for me to do such activities.

THE ASCENT

We started our climb at 5 in the morning. It was dark and fallen trees blocked some parts of the trail caused by the typhoons. I was worried if I could make this climb without much challenge, but the bright light of the full moon lifted my spirit.

The sun rose and I saw the greens of the mountain. It was a view to see. After months of staying in the Metro, I’ve really missed the fresh air, the forest, and the dirt.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

After 2 hours, we reached the Papaya River. This area was also a campsite for those who didn’t want to stay on the ridge. I’m not sure why it’s called that but papaya or not, it was beautiful. We dipped our legs and washed our faces. It was refreshing.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan
Papaya River

We continued climbing and the trail got steeper and harder. Roots of trees blocked the trail so we lifted ourselves to pass those obstacles.

TARAK RIDGE

Trees started to clear and I saw the view of Bataan and Corregidor Island. We finally stepped foot on Tarak Ridge. The wind was so strong, that all light materials could be blown off easily. We tried to pitch our tent there, but the wind proved hard for us and the ground was too hard for the peg to go through. We then decided to pitch it somewhere else to avoid any accidents.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

After all the preparations were done, we ate our lunch and took some rest. We planned on climbing the summit tomorrow morning. We spent the whole afternoon resting and taking photos.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

MT. TARAK’S SUMMIT

The next day, we ate our breakfast and some of us continued to reach the summit while the others were left behind to break camp. The wind was still strong at the ridge and it was hard to pose beside a cliff, but still, we managed to take some pictures.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan

After an hour we were able to reach the summit. The famous landmark for the summit is a lone tree located at the edge. Unfortunately, we can’t see the view because of the fog. Nevertheless, it was another achievement for me to reach the summit of another mountain.

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)
Lone tree on the summit
Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)
Summit Buddies

We headed back to camp and packed our things. But before all, pictures at the ridge first. :p

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)
Team Tarak

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)
Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

Tarak Ridge - Mariveles, Bataan (Climb Guide)

We started our descent going to the Papaya River. We ate our lunch and took a splash into the cold waters of the river.  Darryl and her girlfriend, Macy, were in a hurry so we left first and left the others behind.

We were able to return back to the jump-off point in just a short time without much stopping. I was able to cope with their speed and didn’t feel very tired. This must be the effect of my climb in Pulag. I was able to push myself beyond my limits and luckily, my back didn’t experience any problems. With this, I told myself, I will surely climb again soon. 🙂

IF YOU WANT A CHILL AND HISTORICAL HIKE, CHECK OUT MT. SAMAT NATIONAL SHRINE!

CLIMB GUIDE & TIPS

ITINERARY:

DAY 1

TIME
ACTIVITY
11:30 P.M./12:00 A.M.
Meet up at Genesis Terminal in Cubao. Departed from Cubao going to Mariveles, Bataan
4:00 A.M.
Arrived at Alas-asin; registered at Brgy. Hall
4:30 A.M.
Breakfast
5:00 A.M.
Start trek
8:00 A.M.
Arrived at Papaya River; lunch
8:30 A.M.
Resume trek to woodlands
10:30 A.M.
Arrived at Tarak Ridge
11:30 A.M.
Setup Camp
12:30 A.M.
Lunch
1:30 A.M.
Rest, Socials
6:30 P.M.
Prepared for dinner
8:00 P.M.
Lights out

DAY 2

TIME
ACTIVITY
7:00 AM
Breakfast
8:00 AM
Explored Summit
9:30 AM
Break Camp
10:00 AM
Started Descent
10:30 AM
Arrived at Papaya River
11:00 AM
Prepared Lunch
11:30 AM
Lunch
12:30 PM
Swam at Papaya River
1:30 PM
Continued Trek to Jump-Off
4:00 PM
Wash-up
5:00 PM
Back to Manila

EXPENSES:

Bus From Cubao to Mariveles
₱272
Bus From Mariveles to Cubao
₱272
Registration Fee
₱40
Wash Up Fee
₱20
Food and Toiletries
₱500

TOTAL EXPENSES: ₱1104.00

LOCATION:

HOW TO GET THERE:

  • Ride a bus (Genesis and Five Star) in Cubao bound for Mariveles, Bataan. Drop off at Barangay Alas-asin near the barangay hall. (Travel time = 3-4 Hours, Fare = ₱272/person)
  • Ride a tricycle from the barangay hall to go to the jump-off point or walk.

FEES:

  • Registration Fee: ₱40.00
  • Guide Fee: ₱500.00-₱700.00
  • Donation for Aling Cording: any amount
  • Wash-up fee: ₱20.00

POWER PACK:

CHECK OUT THESE DISCOUNTED/PROMO RATES IN KLOOK:

Klook.com

NOTES:

  •  Make sure not to spoil the river. Papaya River is a water source and the only one there.
  • Avoid pitching at the ridge, strong winds will surely blow your tent away. Around Papaya River is a more recommended campsite.
  • A guide is not required, but make sure to register at the Registration Area.

 


©CHASEJASE

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