Enjoy this scenery on your way to Mother Falls |
Only a couple of minutes when traveling via PUVs from Baler (individuals or groups can rent vans or tricycles depending on budget), Mother Falls has become a favorite not only because of its proximity but also its experience.
The trek to Mother Falls |
Officially named the Ditumabo Falls as it is found in Barangay Ditumabo, Mother Falls is nestled within a portion of the majestic Sierra Madre Mountain Range (one of the longest in the Philippines as it traverses Luzon from north to south).
For starters, the hike going to the falls itself is much longer than the drive to Barangay Ditumabo. It usually takes an hour of leisurely trek going to the falls, so definitely, it takes about three hours back and forth with swimming, rest and snacks already included in between.
But don't be afraid as the hike to the falls is friendly especially for those who are active or who are used to hiking because distance from the foot of the mountain to the falls itself is just a kilometer.
Green and moist. So fresh and cool to the eyes. |
Unfortunately, serenity is broken by the continuous going in and out of people so I suggest not to visit Mother Falls during peak season--which is now.
You're near the destination once you begin ascent on a flat and concrete walkway |
Upon reaching an upward concrete walkway, then you'll know you're near Mother Falls. And seeing it, you'll understand why it is dubbed such.
Indeed, Mother Falls is bigger than all the other falls that you will pass by. At its bottom is a crystal clear pool of icy spring water! Take a dip, shower under the big falls if you can, and just let the feeling wash away your exhaustion from hiking.
Sorry blurred! The falls was so strong its mists reached my lenses |
If you want to escape the crowd, try going to the smaller pools and falls below, and wade there all you want.
If you find the Mother Falls too crowded, take a shower in the smaller falls instead |
All in all, I'd love to visit Mother Falls again sans the noisy crowd!
And maybe if there is a good guide, I can also see what locals call the "Father Falls"! If this is true, said falls is much bigger than Mother Falls and found deeper and higher within the mountains!
View my collection of Mother Falls here.
Read "Baler Part 1: Around town" by following this link or "Baler Part 3: Beyond Sabang by clicking this link.
(TEXT AND PHOTOS ARE MINE. ©EUDEN VALDEZ)
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