Mt Arayat National Park
The mystical mountain of Mt. Arayat lies within the municipalities of Arayat and Magalang in Pampanga and is considered one of the most accessible parks in Manila. The Pampanga River, the second largest in Luzon, runs through the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija. Mt. Arayat, known for its clear water cascading from its waterfalls and for its refreshing surroundings, was designated as a Forest Reserve in 1921 and then as a National Park in 1933.
Mt. Arayat is home to endemic and endangered flora and fauna, as well as geological rock formations with ecotourism potential. It also serves as an important source of water for Arayat and Magalang residents' domestic and agricultural needs. There are 23 creeks in the area that serve to irrigate an estimated 350,000 hectares of rice fields surrounding Mt. Arayat National Park. Despite years of encroachment, many of Mt Arayat's forests remain intact. As a result, while hiking to the summit, you may encounter monkeys and deer. Civet cats, wild pigs, and native birds thrive as well.
Location: Arayat, Pampanga
