Mt. Naupa

Mt. Naupa’s grassy, treeless summit draws the inevitable comparisons to pasture country abroad, but the bald look isn’t natural — cogon grass and light cattle grazing keep the tree line from creeping back up, the same dynamic behind several of Cebu’s other grass-covered peaks. The trailhead sits inland from Naga City, whose lowland economy runs on cement rather than tourism; Apo Cement’s plant in Tina-an is one of the largest in the country, a contrast worth noting on the drive up. The 360-degree view from the top holds up in both directions — toward the cement stacks and the coast, and toward the quieter ridgelines further inland.

• The trail is fully exposed; bring more water than you think you need and start early to beat the heat.
• Camping at the summit works well for a clear night sky, well away from any city glow.
• Register at the barangay hall before starting — standard practice for community-managed trails like this one, not a formality to skip.

Explore More in Central Cebu Highlands and Metro Fringe

• Bonbon Falls
• Cebu Transcentral Highway
• Mt. Mauyog