Short and Sweet

After the historical CowTown hike last week, we decide to take it easy this Sunday with a short and safe hike in our neighborhood. Our destination: Mt. Achugao overlook. With everyone still occupied with post typhoon cleanup/recovery, or off-island, five of us gather at the driveway at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday: Chops, Peppy, Rexplorer, CC, and dog Sukha, ready for a leisurely hike.

The miracle of nature. Brand new leaves sprouting from this yellow shower tree, ignoring the naked branches still waiting for their new leaves to appear.

At the top of the hill, glistening in the sunlight is a pile of shattered safely glass from the windows of a nearby house, victim of the super typhoon.

On the road to Achugao, a few tangan tangan trees fell across the path. Compared to the monsters on CowTown trail, these are "child's play". :-)

Ever the die-hard hiker, Chops easily manages the obstacles. 

Peppy is ready to do battle with anyone who dares.

At the end of the road, we wade through a clump of sword grass to the base of Mt. Achugao where we start up the steep slope to the ridge.

Sukha and Rexplorer sitting pretty and waiting.

Can you spot Peppy and Chops?

On top of the overlook, Sukha chuckles, "Humans are so slow!"

 

Panoramic view from Garapan to San Roque. Tip of Achugao in the center.

San Roque

Garapan and Tanapag

Mt. Tapochau and Wireless Ridge

Kingfisher and Kagman

A little drink, a little snacks and lots of laughs. 

Three beauties and a handsome dog.

Time to go back down hill, and start the butt-walk.

Almost made it. 

Rexplorer and Sukha sitting pretty again, waiting.

We make it back to the house before 9. Everyone is ready for a cup of strong coffee, sit around and chitchat to relax. This is an enjoyable Sunday hike.