Last May we had another opportunity to hike in Sentul. We were again just a group of three: Adam, me, and Stephane, the Frenchman who had been on our last hike. This time, however, we would hike in a new location for a hike that was supposed to actually be “moderate” instead of the easy, short hike we had last time.
The first part of the hike was pretty normal, albeit uphill. There was a trail race going on at the same time, so we were perpetually being passed by people running up or down the hill. Part way up, the clouds parted to reveal the awesome sight of Mt. Salak, the nearby volcano.
Soon we left the main road/trail and headed down a narrow path into the coffee fields. The trail grew thinner and more difficult as we worked our way down the mountain.
Eventually, we were winding our way through and under coffee plants. Unfortunately, the hiking shoes I’ve owned for probably 10 years decided to fall apart. Luckily our guide was resourceful and tied the sole back up for me so I could continue walking.
It seemed we were following the trail the farmers use to visit their crop. Indeed, at one point we came out onto level ground where a farmer was drying beans in the sun.
We continued on down the mountain, sometimes glimpsing other farms tucked into the ridges. The views along the way were stunning.
Eventually the trail came out next to a rushing river with a waterfall to swim in. Perched above the river there was a place to buy a cup of coffee. It was a perfect spot for a short break before the final stretch of the hike.
After a short swim, a change of clothes, and a coffee, we headed the rest of the way down the mountain to the cars. This hike was much more strenuous and long than the last one rated “moderate”. What we are learning is we can’t trust the rating of the hike!
