A raw, scenic climb through Ana-An Falls
This was not a slow start kind of day.
At 5:00 am, Pinatubo Mountainero Travel and Tours picked us up at SM City Clark on a rugged 4×4 pickup. No delays. No fuss. By 6:07 am, we were already entering the rough road. Minutes later, the terrain opened into a dramatic canyon-like stretch. Deep. Wide. Striking. The kind of view that makes you sit up straight even before coffee kicks in.
The 4×4 Ride: Short, Wild, and Fun
The ride had multiple river crossings. Real ones. Water splashing the tires. Rocks underneath. This part alone already felt like an adventure. Compared to Capas Trail, this was faster and far from dull. Less than two hours. No long, dusty boredom. Just action.
At 6:27 am, we parked and started the trek. The air was 19°C. Cold enough to creep through my trekking clothes.
Crossing Rivers and Chasing Cascades
By 6:40 am, we reached the first river crossing. A sturdy bamboo bridge built by the Aetas stood over the flow. Solid. Practical. A quiet reminder of how local communities keep this trail alive.
At 6:51 am, we passed one of the lower cascades of the Ana-An River. Gentle. Clear. Then at 6:55 am, the first tall cascade appeared. This stop pulls you in. Massive rock formations shaped by years of water movement. You stop talking. You just look.
From Recovery Trails to Rocky Terrain
By 7:16 am, we hit the grassy recovery trail. A short breather. Soft ground. Open views.
At 8:27 am, the trail turned rocky. Trees here look unfamiliar. Plants feel rare. You know you are far from the lowlands now.
By 9:20 am, we reached the reconstructed wooden stairs. Legs were starting to feel the climb.
At 9:32 am, the trail opened into a clearing with a steady ascent. This part demands focus. The slope gets steep. This is also where you see pitcher plants and colorful flowers that do not grow below. Slow steps help here.
The Payoff: Mt. Pinatubo Crater Rim
At 9:43 am, we reached the rim of the crater.
Wide. Silent. Powerful.
Standing there feels grounding. Wind hits your face. Clouds drift. The scale of the crater reminds you why this mountain matters.
We stayed, took photos, and soaked it in.
Descent and Final Highlights
By 10:39 am, we began our descent.
At 12:48 pm, we reached the tallest cascade of Ana-An Falls. Cold water. Strong flow. This is where tired legs feel rewarded.
At 2:28 pm, a quick stop at the Inararo View Deck. From here, you see the mountains you crossed and the plains of Pampanga stretching far out.
By 3:20 pm, we were back at SM City Clark.
Inararo Trail vs Capas Trail to Mt. Pinatubo
Here is the honest take.
- Shorter 4×4 ride. Less than two hours.
- More walking. More challenge.
- Far more scenic.
- Capas felt long and repetitive. Inararo stayed engaging the whole way.
If you want a trail that keeps your attention, this is it.
What to Bring
Pack smart. This trail has many river crossings.
- Sun protection. Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Proper trekking clothes
- Trekking sandals
- At least 2 liters of rehydration
- Trail food
- Power bank
- Waterproof protection for electronics
- Extra clothes
- Tip for your guide
- Trekking pole, helpful on descent
Trail Reminders
- Practice CLAYGO
- Do not litter
- Drone use allowed
Book with Pinatubo Mountainero Travel and Tours
This trip ran smoothly because the team knows the terrain.
- SEC registered
- DOT accredited
- Knowledgeable and Trained Aeta guides
- Well-coordinated logistics
If Mt. Pinatubo via Inararo Trail is on your list, book with people who do this right.
Website: https://www.pinatubomountainero.com/
Email: inbox@mtpinatubo.com
Slots fill fast, especially on good weather days and weekends. Reach out and lock in your climb.
Read more: Mt. Pinatubo Crater Rim Summit via Inararo Trail
