10 Best Hiking Spots Near Metro Manila That You Can Explore in a Day
By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
We all want to relish the joy of fresh air and rustling leaves. A Healthline study shows that being in nature offers chances for enjoyment, spiritual fulfillment, personal development, socializing, and appreciating beauty, which can all boost well-being.
Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the great outdoors! Many hidden gems for hiking near Manila provide a chance to reconnect with nature without venturing far from the city.
These urban escapes are perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
10 Hiking Spots Near Metro Manila
From Zambales to Batangas, there are many hiking options near Metro Manila for your next free weekend.
1. Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Batangas
Source: Mt. Gulugod-Baboy Guide Association
If you’re hiking for the first time, make Mt. Gulugod Baboy your top choice! Its trail presents a moderate challenge with well-marked paths. You can reach the summit in two to three hours, where you can enjoy views of the mountain’s rolling hills and the Batangas coastline.
How to get there:
Take a bus to Batangas Grand Terminal, then ride a jeep to Anilao. Alight at the Philpan-Mabini Junction and ride a tricycle to the mountain’s registration site.
2. Mt. Batulao and Mt. Talamitam, Batangas
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nasugbu, Batangas boasts two stunning peaks: Mt. Batulao and Mt. Talamitam. The former’s rolling slopes and grassy ridges make for a picturesque hike. Its new trail allows you to reach the top in under two hours. If you’re up for a tougher trek, you can take the old trail and reach the top in about two and a half hours.
Meanwhile, Mt. Talamitam offers more rugged terrain with its rocky trails. Nonetheless, it still falls under the beginner trail. You can also reach the top in two hours.
How to get there:
Ride a bus to Nasugbu, Batangas, and alight at K.C. Hillcrest (formerly Evercrest Golf Course). Then, take a tricycle to Mt. Batulao.
For Mt. Talamitam, take the same bus but alight in Sitio Bayabasan instead. The registration booth is just along the highway.
3. Mt. Maculot, Batangas
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mt. Maculot has three destinations: Rockies, Summit, and Grotto. As the name implies, Rockies is a rocky formation at the top of the mountain, offering views of Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Mt. Makiling, and Tagaytay Highlands. It’s the first and most popular rest stop during the hike, making it a favorite among hikers.
If you want a more unforgettable experience, consider camping overnight instead of just doing a day hike.
How to get there:
Take a bus bound for Lemery, Batangas, then alight at Cuenca town proper. Next, ride a tricycle to the mountain’s jump-off point.
4. Pico de Loro, Cavite
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Did you know that seafarers back then used Pico de Loro’s peak as an indicator to navigate toward Manila Bay and Corregidor Island? Besides its historical importance, this mountain attracts hikers with its tall monolith and green forests.
While the summit trail is challenging (it takes an average of 70 minutes to reach the summit), the sweeping views of land and sea are unparalleled. Remember to book your trip online via the Protected Area Management Board’s website and pay the ₱200 fee on-site. Since the monolith area is restricted, you can only reach the summit.
How to get there:
Take a bus to Ternate, Cavite, then rent a jeep or tricycle to reach the jump-off point.
5. Mt. Manalmon, Bulacan
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Up north, you can enjoy Mt. Manalmon’s limestone formations, caves, and scenic river crossings. The trail is relatively easy—perfect for beginners and families—and takes at least 45 minutes to reach the top. On the way down, you can set up camp and relax by the Madlum River.
How to get there:
Ride a bus bound for Cabanatuan, alight at Barangay Kamias in San Miguel, Bulacan, and take a tricycle to Barangay Madlum.
6. Mt. Natib, Bataan
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mt. Natib is a dormant volcano that boasts lush forests, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. The trail’s steep ascents and descents make it moderately difficult.
The four- to five-hour climb will be worth it as you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bataan, Zambales, and Pampanga.
How to get there:
Take a bus bound for Balanga or Mariveles, Bataan, and go down Orani Crossing. Then, ride a tricycle to the jump-off point in Barangay Tala.
7. Mt. Balagbag, Rizal
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Offering sweeping views of the Sierra Madre Mountain range, Mt. Balagbag is a favorite among hikers for its accessibility and scenic beauty. The trail is perfect for beginners and those seeking a leisurely hike. You can even cool down at Maranat Falls after your trek.
How to get there:
Ride a bus to Tungko, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, then alight at Jollibee Tungko. Take a jeep to Licao-Licao, then a tricycle to Sitio Balagbag.
8. Mt. Binacayan and Mt. Pamitinan, Rizal
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Rizal province offers hikers a twin treat—Mt. Binacayan and Mt. Pamitinan are renowned for their limestone cliffs and stunning views. The trails vary in difficulty, with Mt. Binacayan suitable for beginners and Mt. Pamitinan offering a more challenging ascent. Visit during the dry season for safer conditions.
How to get there:
Take an FX from Cubao to Rodriguez/Montalban, then a tricycle to Sitio Wawa.
9. Mt. Pinatubo, Zambales
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A testament to nature’s raw power, Mt. Pinatubo, once known for producing the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century, is now home to a breathtaking crater lake and otherworldly landscapes. The trek has sandy terrain, rocky paths, and slightly steep ascents. Instead of the lush greenery you typically see on mountains, you’ll pass by volcanic formations and streams.
How to get there:
Take a bus bound for Olongapo or Baguio and go down Capas Public Market in Capas, Tarlac. Then, ride a jeep or hire a tricycle to Sta. Juliana. Finally, hire a 4×4 jeep to reach the jump-off point.
10. Mt. Balingkilat, Zambales
Source: Mount Baling Kilat Tour Guide
Known as the “Mountain of Thunder,” Mt. Balingkilat can be a challenging yet rewarding adventure with its steep trails and panoramic views of the West Philippine Sea. It takes one hour to reach the mountain’s campsite and another hour to reach the summit.
How to get there:
Ride a bus to Iba, Zambales, then alight at Subic City Hall. Next, rent a tricycle to Sitio Cauag.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Immersing yourself in nature is a great way to de-stress and improve overall well-being. Fortunately, there are plenty of trails near Metro Manila, each offering a unique challenge and breathtaking views. Being near Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) or Cubao makes it simple to reach these destinations for a weekend escape or a quick day trip.
Good thing Federal Land has condominiums near these transportation hubs. We create exceptional living spaces that allow you to thrive—whether you’re seeking urban convenience or a quick escape to nature.
Mi Casa is a pre-selling development near PITX, while Siena Towers is a stylish condo in Marikina, along Sumulong Highway. Both can make your escape to beautiful mountains a breeze.
Explore our website to find the perfect home near outdoor adventures.
Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
Digital Marketing Head
Martin is an experienced marketer with over 16 years of experience across various industries including real estate, banking and finance, technology, and advertising.
Martin has a broad range of expertise in having handled campaigns, brand launches, activations both in the traditional and digital space. Currently serving as the Digital Marketing Head at Federal Land, Martin leads a team focused on managing digital sales and platforms for the residential, estates and commercial business units.