About Mt. Lubo
Mt. Lubog, located in Rodriguez, Rizal, is one of the province’s lesser-known hiking gems, offering both adventure and serenity. The journey to its trailhead is already an experience — a rugged off-road ride through rivers, rocky paths, and lush forests. Rising at around 955 meters above sea level, Mt. Lubog may not be the tallest peak in Rizal, but it rewards every hiker with sweeping views of the Sierra Madre mountain range, cool winds, and a sense of peace away from the city’s chaos. For those seeking a raw, off-the-beaten-path climb, Mt. Lubog delivers the perfect blend of challenge and charm.
Our Hiking Itinerary
Mt. Hapunang Banoi is situated beside Mt. Pamitinan, and separated by Wawa Dam from Mt. Binacayan. These mountains in Montalban, Rizal are now famous in the mountaineering world because it is surrounded by luscious green trees, making the area look so relaxing, and the wind is cool, clean, and fresh. Plus, the exhilarating terrains added an adventure to hikers; a perfect place to relax and an Instagram-worthy worthy.
We planned to hike Mt. Hapunang Banoi, but our guide misunderstood us. He was thinking that we’re hiking Mt. Lubog, so by his lead, we trekked an ascending trail surrounded by shrubs, grass, flowering plants, and fruit-bearing trees. All of us thought that it was the Banoi's trail, but we’re wrong! We knew that we were on the wrong path when we met and talked to a few locals. They brought to our attention that we were indeed on the wrong trail. We brought it up to our guide and he agreed that we’re on the wrong way. Instead of going back, we proceeded on a trek to discover the hidden wealth of Mt. Lubog.
Instead of feeling upset, we accepted the fact that there are reasons why it happened. Feeling Positive diba? It was a circuit adventure, and the whole journey was amazing. It was a cool trek because the majority of the area is covered with fruit-bearing trees. There were plenty of ripe mangoes, duhat, coconuts, bananas, and many more by the trail. Flowering plants like orchids, cadena de amor, yellow bells hanging on the trees, santan on the trail, and others. The terrain has a combination of uphill and downhill. The trails are well established, but complicated because they also serve as the locals' passageway to their farmlands.
Our Mt. Lubog circuit lasted for almost 6 hours, had our socials and spent over night at our friends’ house, near the DENR. The next day, it’s time to complete the original plan, trekking Mt. Hapunang Banoi. In the morning, we went to the market, near Wawa Dam, to buy something for our breakfast and trail foods.
Mt. Hapunang Banoi
On the other hand, Mt. Hapunang Banoi is one of the province’s most thrilling day hikes — known for its steep limestone trails, sharp rock formations, and breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre mountain range. Standing beside the popular Mt. Pamitinan, this mountain offers a tougher and more technical climb that rewards adventurers with panoramic scenery and an unforgettable sense of accomplishment. Its name, which means “roosting place of eagles,” perfectly captures the feeling of standing at the summit — free, elevated, and surrounded by the wild beauty of nature.
We started trekking at around 7 AM. The trail is a simple to moderate type, but only up to the fork trail to Mt. Pamitinan. From the fork trail to the summit is a moderate to hard trail type. The majority of the trail is like a relationship, very complicated. Trail marks are not always visible, so your feelings and observations are needed. Hopping on and off the lime stones and sharp boulders is also needed, which makes the trail more difficult for the hikers. Another part is spots where you need to do rock scrambling.
The last three photos were captured on one of the boulders near the summit. We were holding the Philippine flag on top of this boulder because this event was part of our annual Climb for Independence. The wind controls the position of the flag, so it appears improper and violates the Republic Act No. 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, but holding the Philippine flag on top was an honor.
How to Get There
Beside Jollibee Farmers, in Cubao, we rode an FX to Eastwood, in Montalban. In Eastwood, rode a tricycle to Wawa Dam. Reminder: Entrance and Guide fees are to be collected at the DENR.
Summary
Traversing Mt. Lubog to Mt. Hapunang Banoi is more than just a hike — it’s an unforgettable journey that combines the best of Rizal’s wild landscapes and rugged adventure. From the rough off-road ride to Lubog’s serene summit, to the thrilling limestone ascents of Hapunang Banoi, every step offers a mix of challenge and awe. This traverse reminds every hiker why Rizal remains a favorite playground for adventurers — close to the city, yet untamed and full of surprises. At the end of the trail, you don’t just conquer two mountains — you rediscover your strength, patience, and love for the outdoors.
As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.
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