Beyond Porac and the village of Sapang Bato in Angeles City, the land rises toward Mount Pinatubo. This is lahar country, and it is home to Aeta upland communities. It is the hardest riding on our Pampanga list. We describe it here as a place to ride, not as a mapped route.
The ride
We have not found a measured cycling route here, so we give no distance. Two figures help with scale. Porac’s local government lists a 28 km trail toward the Pinatubo crater. Wikivoyage describes a 40 km trail from Sapang Bato through Inararo, and calls it a route for 4×4 vehicles.
A track described for four-wheel-drive vehicles tells you what to expect. Loose lahar sand, gravel and river crossings are likely. Bring a mountain bike in good order, and expect to walk parts of it.
Good to know
- Ask first. We could not confirm the rules on permits, guides or access. Contact the Porac tourism office before you plan a ride, and go with a guide who knows the area.
- Go in the dry season only. Lahar channels carry water in the rains.
- Do not go alone. Ride with a group, tell someone at home your plan and agree on a time to turn back.
- Carry everything you need: water for the whole day, food, a spare tube, a pump and basic tools. Do not count on a phone signal.
- Start at first light. Open ground gives little shade, and the heat builds quickly.
- Respect the communities you pass through, and ask before you take photographs of people or homes.
Who it suits
This is a ride for experienced mountain bikers. It is not one for someone returning to cycling after a long break. For an easier day near Angeles, try the laps at Clark or the Mount Arayat loop.