Rosario, La Union — I think one of the better things that happened, as a result of the limits and controls brought about by the pandemic, is getting to discover new places of interest we never took notice of before.

Like these chill hiking (and biking) destinations near Baguio. The town of Rosario located at the foot of Baguio, has some secrets waiting to be discovered . Two of these are places called Camp Kwarog and Bantay Kalbo.

One activity I missed doing during the height of the pandemic is hiking and waiting for the sun to rise. A sunrise view atop a mountain or a high place is usually extra special since the view is topnotch. I love sunrise as much as I love sunsets. Sunrise to me symbolizes the chance to be awakened, and a literal chance to leave the darkness behind and walk into the light of new opportunities. The world is filled with challenges for each of us. If we connect with nature, we will be reminded of the beauty in the reset that is given to us every single morning.

So bike and hike your way to these trails less visited in Rosario, La Union only a few locals know about. Both places are quite easy to scale.

Particularly, the prominent hill known as Bantay Kalbo located in between Risario, La Union and San Fabian, Pangsainan – is a walk in the park, good for a couple of minutes hiking. The view at the top especially during sunrise is definitely breathtaking.

Camp Kwarog in Brgy Tanglag is yet another easy hike that offers a 360-degree vista atop. It offers a stunning view kf mountains on one side, and the view of the West Philippine Sea on the opposite side. Both sunrise and sunset views can be marveled from Camp Kwarog’s summit (which by the way has some rocky features).

Here are some photos I took during the hije to these 2 places.

Bantay Kalbo can be easily accessed from the highway of Brgy Cataguintingan (the road beside the public school) while Camp Kwarog can be reached via two possible entry points – one in Tanglag (there is a narrow road near the Tanglag National High School), amd the other one is located along th national highway in Cataguintingan.

After a trek to Camp Kwarog and Bantay Kalbo, make your way to Ragsak Cafe (one of Rosario’s must visit cafes) for a refreshing drink or a satisfying meal!

So there. Don’t be a wasted soul, be ‘juan’derlust.