SIPIT ULANG: Epic Hike Full of Adventure and Discovery

Nestled in the rugged terrain of Barangay Mascap in Rodriguez (formerly known as Montalban), Rizal, Mt. Sipit Ulang is a hidden gem that offers more than just a hike—it promises an adventure filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. It also serves as a great warm-up for those preparing to tackle more challenging mountains, such as Espadang Bato, helping you prepare for the more arduous tasks. In this blog, I will share details about our surprise twin hike, including Sipit Ulang.

We started our day early, catching a van from Cubao to Eastwood, Rodriguez. The ride was smooth, and the anticipation built up as we neared our destination. From Eastwood, we hopped onto a tricycle that took us to the jump-off point in Barangay Mascap.

Upon arrival, we registered at the barangay hall and met our guide, who briefed us on the trail options. There are two main trails to choose from: the Banayad Trail, which is easier and more gradual, and the Paniki Trail, known for its challenging passages and scenic rock formations.

Opting for the Banayad Trail, we set off, eager to experience the adventure that awaited us. We chose it as a warm-up to the more challenging hike to Espadang Bato later in the day. It’s ideal because it offers just the right amount of challenge—enough to get the heart pumping and muscles engaged, but still manageable to conserve energy for what lies ahead.

The trail greeted us with a mini river crossing, its cool water brushing our shoes, followed by a walk along flat terrain that, despite being slightly slippery from early morning dew, offered a gentle introduction. Soon, the path began its steady ascent. Some portions turned steep and rugged, demanding careful footing and a bit of grit. This uphill push lasted for about 20 minutes, broken occasionally by stretches of flatter ground—welcomed breathers that allowed us to catch our breath and soak in our surroundings.

The hike was refreshing, embraced by the morning breeze that whispered through the trees. Mist clung to the leaves like fine lace, adding an ethereal quality to the forest. There was something almost nostalgic about Sipit Ulang—it didn’t have the usual intimidating aura of a mountain. Instead, it felt familiar and friendly, like a trail we had walked before in a dream.

Barely an hour in, we reached the summit. The iconic rock formation, shaped like a crab’s claw, stood proudly at the peak. It was surreal to see in person what we had only glimpsed in photos. We spent more time here than on the hike itself—resting, taking in the panoramic view, and, of course, capturing the moment with countless photos and videos.

The hike down was a breeze and gave us more room to capture the moment—from fresh angles of the rock formations to candid shots of the trail we had just conquered. With the pressure of reaching the summit behind us, we moved with ease, pausing often to appreciate the beauty that we had rushed past on the way up.

The Banayad Trail lived up to its name—gentle, yet fulfilling. It set the tone for the rest of the day, grounding us in nature and reminding us that sometimes, the easier paths offer just as much reward.

If you’re coming from Cubao in Quezon City, the easiest way to get to Sipit Ulang is by taking a UV Express to Montalban/Rodriguez. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Total Gas Station. From there, walk to the terminal for Brgy. Mascap and hop on a tricycle to get to the registration site. Make sure to leave early, as the hike can take several hours, especially if you plan to hike multiple mountains including Mt. Ayaas and Espadang Bato.

• Know the Terrain: Research the trail conditions, length, elevation gain, and difficulty level. Ensure that it matches your fitness level and experience. Although it’s considered an easy hike like Nagpatong Rock, it’s better to prepare.
• Check Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s good to prepare for any conditions.
• Footwear: Choose well-fitted hiking shoes or sandals with good tread for traction. Avoid sneakers if you’re hiking on rocky or slippery terrain.
• Clothing: Layer your clothing, so you can adjust as needed. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry.
• Backpack: Pack light, but don’t leave behind anything important, like water, snacks, first-aid kit, and a map or GPS device.
• Bring Enough Water: Carry enough water to last the whole hike, especially if you’re going to hike multiple mountains. Consider a hydration pack for easy drinking.
• Snacks: Trail mix, energy bars, or fruit can give you quick energy. Make sure to have something high in protein and carbs for sustained energy. Snack stations are abundant in Espadang Bato but none in Sipit Ulang.
• Leave No Trace: Stick to established trails and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants. Carry out all your trash and dispose of it properly.
• Stay on the Path: Avoid cutting corners or straying off the trail, as this can damage the landscape and make the trail less clear for others.
• Start Slow: If you’re new to hiking, take it easy at first. It’s better to go at a steady pace than to burn out too quickly.
• Rest When Needed: Take short breaks to rest and eat along the way. Give your body a chance to recover before pushing forward.
• Know What’s Around: If you’re hiking in an area with wildlife (bears, snakes, etc.), familiarize yourself with how to stay safe.
• Don’t Feed Wildlife: This can alter their natural behavior and lead to dangerous situations.
• Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like food scraps.
• Respect other hikers’ space and minimize noise.

There you have it, lovelies. That’s it for our hike in Sipit Ulang which surprisingly turned into a twin hike with Espadang Bato. If you have any questions, just leave them in the comments. If you want to keep tabs on my adventures then follow me on Facebook.