Cordillera Trail Running Boot Camp (CTRBC)

Get ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking trails of Camp John Hay in Baguio.  This picturesque location offers some of the most enchanting local trails you could ever dream of exploring.  Brace yourself for an exhilarating challenge as we introduce you to the renowned VJ100 Ultra Trail Challenge, a 100KM race that pushes your limits within the captivating confines of Camp John Hay.  This race consists of 10 loops, each spanning a demanding 10KM loop course with 700 m of elevation gain and loss per loop.

To kick off your adventure, we have prepared a delightful warm-up.  We will conquer three loops of this invigorating course, providing you with a fantastic introduction to the challenges that lie ahead.  Each loop takes approximately two hours to complete, making this a comfortable and enjoyable six-hour run. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to refuel and rehydrate, with additional food and drinks available after each loop.  Feel free to indulge in a leisurely lunch after a couple of loops, savoring the delectable flavors of Baguio.

This experience is designed to sharpen your climbing and descending skills, as most of the loop is comprised of thrilling trails (with just a small section of road).  After our invigorating run, we’ll have a chance to unwind and replenish our energy.  Indulge in a well-deserved lunch and take some time to relax and recharge.

Following this, we’ll embark on a scenic journey to the quaint township of Kayapa, where we’ll enjoy a delightful meal before retiring early for a restful night’s sleep.  Tomorrow holds the promise of a thrilling three-day tour through the magnificent mountain trails of Kayapa, Itogon and Kabayan.

Prepare to be captivated by the wonders of nature, as you embark on this trail running adventure.  Let the warmth of our hospitality and the persuasive charm of our surroundings allow us to guide you through an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for more.

After a sumptuous breakfast at your homestay, we will then head out to the Cascade Trail Challenge (CTC), an extraordinary trail running route that will leave you breathless in more ways than one.  Prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure that seamlessly combines the thrill of trail running with the awe-inspiring beauty of cascading waterways and waterfalls. Get ready to embark on a journey where every step is a breathtaking adventure, surrounded by nature’s most magnificent wonders.

Picture yourself immersed in lush forests, with the melodious sound of cascading waterfalls serenading your senses.  As you navigate the challenging terrain, the mist from the falls gently caresses your skin, fueling your determination to conquer nature’s obstacles. This is not just a run, but an intimate encounter with the raw power and breathtaking beauty of waterfalls.

The Cascade Trail Challenge route promises an experience unlike any other.  With each stride, you’ll feel a surge of energy as the stunning waterfalls inspire and invigorate your spirit. Lace up your shoes, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let the Cascade Trail Challenge ignite your passion for trail running.  Celebrate the breathtaking beauty of waterfalls and be captivated by nature’s symphony of water and trails.  Prepare to be mesmerized, and awestruck as you embark on this unforgettable journey.

Join us as we celebrate the magnificence of nature, uniting our love for trail running with the enchanting allure of cascading waterfalls.

Today is mountain day!  Where the spirit of endurance and the beauty of nature converge to create an unforgettable symphony of passion and perseverance. 

Our adventure begins at Alang Salacsac, a small barangay in the mountains.  As the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues, we will pause to savor a breathtaking sunrise while enjoying a delicious breakfast at the summit of Mt. Tugew.  Let the warmth of the morning sun and the nourishing meal energize your spirit for the challenges that lie ahead.  Prepare to be captivated by the majestic peaks of Mt. Marikit and Mt. Ugo as we embark on a thrilling loop that will leave you in awe of nature’s grandeur.

As we continue our journey, we will reach Domolpos, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.  Take a moment to replenish your energy and indulge in a hearty meal that will fuel your body and invigorate your senses.  Relish in the camaraderie of fellow trail runners as you share stories and laughter during this rejuvenating lunch break.

Throughout the day, you will be immersed in the beauty of nature, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes and breathtaking vistas. Each step will reinforce your connection with the raw power and tranquility of the mountains. It is a journey that will push your physical and mental limits, rewarding you with a sense of accomplishment like no other.

As we wind down our adventure-filled week we top it off with an easy trail run to the summit of Mt. Pulag, Luzon’s highest peak, followed by a steep descent down the Akiki trail to Kabayan.  Weather permitting, you will hopefully view the sunrise and potentially the famous sea of clouds.

The area provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Mt. Pulag.  As you ascend, you will traverse through diverse ecosystems, including enchanting pine forests, mystical mossy forests, and vast grasslands. Each step will reveal a new facet of this mesmerizing mountain.

Reaching the summit is an experience like no other. Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise from the highest point in Luzon, as the first rays of light paint the sky with vibrant hues, illuminating the breathtaking landscape below. It is a moment of pure magic and tranquility that will stay with you forever.
Your incredible trail running experience has ended, but the adventure doesn’t end there.  After a scenic ride back to Baguio and a refreshing lunch, it’s time to indulge in a truly soothing mountain experience in the charming city of pines.  Allow us to introduce you to the world of indigenous massages, designed to relax and restore your body while soothing your mind.  Let the skilled hands of our therapists at North Haven Spa transport you to a state of blissful tranquillity, rejuvenating your weary muscles and leaving you feeling rejuvenated.

As the day gently fades into evening, we invite you to savor a sumptuous dinner at the Hill Station Restaurant, a distinguished establishment that holds the esteemed title of being in the oldest hotel in North Luzon (Casa Vallejo), standing tall for an impressive 115 years.  This extraordinary dining venue has been recognized by the Miele Guide, a prestigious award that celebrates culinary excellence. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that blends the flavors of Asia’s hill stations with the delightful tastes of Old-World Europe and New World America.

The Hill Station Restaurant offers a warm and inviting ambiance, providing the perfect setting for an unforgettable dining experience.  Let the charming atmosphere envelop you as you embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your senses. The expert chefs have meticulously crafted a menu that showcases the finest ingredients, ensuring a harmonious fusion of flavors that will leave you craving more.

As your trail running journey comes to a close, we invite you to savor these moments of relaxation, rejuvenation, and culinary delight in the heart of the city of pines.  Let the warmth of our hospitality, the persuasive charm of our surroundings, and the poetic allure of the English language guide you through this final chapter of your adventure.

Indulge, unwind, and savor the moments as you bid farewell to the trails and embrace the soothing mountain experience that awaits.  Your journey may be ending, but the memories and sensations you’ve experienced will stay with you forever.