Ugis Peak
Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat
About
Ugis Peak is one of the minor trails that are short but challenging – great for prepping for a major climb. Located in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, Ugis Peak is labeled as the “Skyscraper of the South”. This peak features a knife edge which requires some caution when summiting.
No campsites allow for overnight stays near Ugis Peak, making a day hike sufficient for those looking to explore. Beyond its stunning peak (often visited before sunrise), the path to Ugis Peak is not easy. The terrain includes narrow, mostly steep paths. Some parts of the trail require grabbing onto ropes and docking for branches along the way. But with all that said, Ugis Peak remains a rewarding short hike especially when you reach the summit at sunrise.
Features
ELEVATION – 930 MASL
DURATION – 3-4hrs
TRAIL TYPE – BACK TRAIL
Preparation
To have a great hiking experience, it is important to have all the gear you need. Here’s a list of essential items that are needed to hike at Ugis Peak. The following checklist is suited for a day hike with an organizer.
Gear Checklist
- Head Lamp
- Umbrella
- Trekking shoes and pants
- Water bottle
- Jacket
- Clothing (shirt, pants, socks, etc.)
- Towel
- Trail food
- Powerbank
- Trekking pole
This gear checklist is available to download with the Apple Reminders list:
Disclaimer: please do not rely solely on this list. Consider your preferences and add any necessary gears that might contribute to a safer and enjoyable experience. If you have suggestions, kindly send me a message through my socials.
Highlights
Sunrise At The Peak
The most special thing that caught my attention on my recent hike was the hue of the sunrise. Ugis Peak is facing directly where the sun comes up its edges just meet perfectly. It is mostly grassy at the peak which gives similar vibes to Mt. Pulag but without the sea of clouds and is mostly overlooking.
Manirub Falls
With a slight detour, you can reach the Manirub Falls where you can have lunch and or just relax before you descend.
Safety
Trail
The difficulty of Ugis Peak is not officially rated, I think it would be best to consider other trails if you’re hiking for the first time. The narrow trail to Ugis Peak features cliffs on one side, so it will matter to pay attention at every step as you progress. And wearing proper hiking footwear is a must.
Reaching the peak will set you back at an average of 2 hours from the registration area. Trekking poles are recommended for additional balance during the descent. There are available poles you can rent or buy at registration which look similar to those available at Lake Holon.
Weather Considerations
Although most of the trail is shaded by trees, it can become quite warm on the return journey so consider bringing a hat or umbrella. While I haven’t experienced the terrain in bad weather, bear in mind the trail can get even more challenging when it gets muddy and slippery.
Navigation
The trail doesn’t have markers but a guide is mandatory to accompany you. This is handled during your orientation at the registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there comfort rooms available?
There is an available comfort room at the registration area but not along the trail.
Is there a potable water source nearby?
Yes, there is an available water source along the trail, be sure to ask your guides where it is safe to drink water from.
Is food available in the registration area?
Yes, there are stores available in the registration area. But keep in mind when you plan to reach the sunrise at the peak and arrive around 3 am that the stores might be still closed. So consider bringing essentials before your hike, esp. water.
Personal Thoughts
A short but memorable hike it is. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the sunrise from the peak. It is quite narrow and even more beautiful when looking at an aerial view. It is one of the steepest trails I’ve been to yet. Lots of branches and ropes that needed to be held onto. I won’t recommend it to first-time hikers. I had a ton of fun!