LA SUERTE TRAIL:
An Upgrade To Your Linabo Peak Hike.
By: Edsel E. Jeon
FRESH FROM THE DEBUT
The day after I got home, I wasted no time—I went straight back to my training ground, Linabo Peak. It felt like the proper way to preserve the momentum of this hiking phase I had just started… and, at the same time, a quiet “thank you” to the mountain that unknowingly trained me for my instant new hobby.
Since I was back in my hometown—where sunsets were practically part of the daily routine—I decided to stay at the peak until around 7 PM before heading down.
At the parking area, I thought I heard a familiar voice. I approached the two men talking—and sure enough, I was right. It was Jun2x, a friend from the running and triathlon community whom I hadn’t seen in ages.
With him was Erlan, his teammate. They told me they were currently training for a trail run in Sa Pa scheduled for September. Jun2x even showed me photos from their recent runs, but the trails didn’t look familiar at all. Turns out, they had been training on a different side of Linabo—an area called La Suerte. Apparently, it was a more rugged, undeveloped section of the mountain that connected directly to the school uphill.
We ended up exchanging stories, updates, and the usual “what have you been up to” conversations—until we suddenly realized it was already around 10 PM. We had spent more time talking than actually training. lol!
Before parting ways, Jun2x invited me to join their next session.
And thanks to the invitation, I now have a new way to enjoy Linabo Peak.
THE START OF THE HIKE
The hike technically begins at the parking area of Linabo Peak. But unlike the usual route to the peak, this trail skips the stairs entirely.
If I’m not mistaken, several sections leading to Linabo School pass through private property. Thankfully, the trail remains accessible since there are no barriers or warning signs from the owners. Still, asking permission is always the respectful thing to do.
THE TRAIL... with no directions.
No matter what the terrain looks like, many mountain trails in the Philippines usually fall into two categories: dry or wet.
A large portion of the trails here are made of clay soil. During the dry season—especially during El Niño—the ground can become as hard as concrete. But once the rainy season begins, the same trail transforms into something closer to dough.
Another familiar feature of Philippine mountain trails is their narrow width, often just enough for one person to pass through at a time. Tall grasses line both sides, while coconut trees accompany you almost from start to finish.
After leaving the residential area, you’ll pass only around 6–8 houses, some located quite far apart from each other.
The very first house serves as an important landmark. The family living there also owns another house near the chapel area. Once you reach the chapel, make sure to locate that second house before continuing—or there’s a good chance you’ll get lost.
A short distance from the first house stands a massive balete tree. In Filipino culture, it is customary to say “tabi po” when passing huge trees, dark areas, or forests—especially around noon or late afternoon—as a sign of respect to unseen beings believed to dwell there.
A few meters ahead, the trail briefly turns rocky and requires a short climb.
Before turning right toward the next ridge-like section, you’ll notice another giant tree that makes for a perfect selfie spot.
From there, the path returns to clay soil lined with tall grasses, while slowly opening up to panoramic views of the mountains and Dipolog.
Continue for another 300 meters and you’ll reach the second house.
This section can be confusing because several smaller trails branch off in different directions.
TIP:
If there’s nobody around to ask for directions, simply remember this rule:
Keep Right until you reach the chapel.
That rule applies only until you arrive at Sr. San Miguel Archangel Chapel.
In less than 500 meters, you’ll finally reach the chapel area.
IMPORTANT CHANGE OF DIRECTIONS
From this point: KEEP LEFT until you reach the next group of houses.
Just before reaching the chapel, you’ll see a wide field ( to your left ) leading to an elevated section where the third house is located—the second home of the family from the first landmark house.
This area also happens to be an ideal sunset spot.
Less than 50 meters ahead is another house. Walk toward its front section, keep left again, walk towards another elevated area and continue following the path until you reach what looks like a small campsite clearing.
From there, continue straight and left toward a massive rock formation.
Again: Keep Left at all times.
From the rock...
Continue walking and turn RIGHT when you reach this area...
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THE ELECTRIC CABLES
At this point, although the " Keep Left " rule is still important, IT IS BEST to use the electric cables as a guide toward where the school is located.
A few more meters ahead, the final house on the trail sits on an elevated portion to your left. No need to go there. Keep your eyes on the electric cables.
From here, Linabo School is less than a kilometer away.
Ironically, this final stretch may also be where you’ll spend the most time—not because it’s difficult, but because the scenery almost constantly tempts you to stop for photos and videos.
Here are some of the beautiful landmarks you’ll encounter in this area: (Some sections in this area are not part of the official trail but can be accessed along the route to Linabo School. Exercise extra caution if you plan to explore them, as some portions may require technical skills and experience.)
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Just remember to follow to follow the electric cables from this point on and in less than 500m, you will start hearing people singing karaoke and find your way to this slight hilly trail that will lead you to...
From here, it's another 300-400m walk to Linabo Peak and
another 1.7KM walk back to the parking area.
