Palo Alto Falls

I always wanted to see waterfalls and when I came across an article about a waterfalls in Baras, Rizal,  I immediately checked it online. I read reviews and get directions.

 

Palo Alto falls is  near the metro. It is around 58km from our place and less than 2 hour drive on a regular day. The falls is located in Brgy. Pinugay, Baras, Rizal specifically inside Palo Alto Subdivision which is being developed as a residential area. Isn’t it thrilling to live in a subdivision with a falls nearby !

The roads are fully paved and driving is relaxed with a little traffic along intersections. As you go further from the metro,  you will see Sierra Madre mountain ranges, some scenic spots and interesting activities. There will be portion where roads zigzagged. Palo Alto gate will be on the right side. The entrance is very nice with lots of colourful bougainvillas. The guard will ask you to leave an ID. You then proceed downhill and turn left at the rotunda. There is a sign where the falls is located. The entrance to the falls is on your left so drive slowly as you may miss the turn.

 

 There is ample parking space. There is a reception area where you can pay the entrance fee and use the toilets. The entrance fee is Php100 pesos each and Php300 for table and chairs. You can bring food and drinks and even cook BBQ.  I learned that it is free if you will just stay for 15 minutes to check the waterfalls and take pictures. Since there are 256 steps to take before reaching the falls , 15 minutes are not enough. Wearing  a comfy footwear is advisable to support your feet and legs during the trek.

 

The realty developer has built concrete stairways with some hand railings for easier climb especially for senior citizens. The way the stairways were built adapted to the environment wherein stones and cement used blended with the rock formations. The ascent is very scenic with lots of trees giving shade. 

Concrete benches are  provided along the stairway should you need to rest and catch your breath. There are small cascades in between boulders. One can stop every now and then to take photos. Upon reaching the falls, there is  a cemented clearing with tables and chairs. The area surrounding the waterfalls has been developed. Although it is safer to move around, the natural beauty of the area has been altered. 

The major catch basin has been cemented forming a swimming pool which is about 6 foot deep. The smaller catch basin is about 3 feet making it suitable for children to swim. The water is cold but refreshing.

 

 A BBQ area was also built at one side . Roofless toilet and bathroom are also available. Water used for shower and flushing comes from the hills via plastic pipes. 

Sadly, there are irresponsible visitors who left their plastic bottles and other trash. Please bring plastic bags and take your trash with you when you leave. 

How to get there: From C-5 , drive pass Eastwood City and stay on the left lane  to take the flyover in the direction of Marikina. Drive straight passing thru Masinag, Cogeo and Antipolo. After a long winding road, Palo Alto gate will be on the right.