As the global trail running community turns its eyes toward the upcoming Alicia Ultra in late May 2026, Batong Puti Cliffside Park has emerged as the premier training ground and "Slow-Living" sanctuary in Eastern Bohol. Located in the highlands of Mahayag, Alicia, this cliffside park offers a panoramic vantage point that rivals the famous Kiltepan of the north. For the 2026 traveler, the "Highland Ritual" involves a pre-dawn climb to witness the iconic Sea of Clouds, a natural phenomenon that blankets the rolling cogon hills in a thick, ethereal mist. It is a tactical destination for those who seek high-energy physical challenge followed by the meditative serenity of a Boholano sunrise.
The Dawn "Cogon" Ritual
The trek to the summit is a high-energy 45-to-60-minute ascent through steep, grass-covered ridges that demand "Sturdy Grip" footwear and steady pacing. This week, hikers arriving at the park between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM have been rewarded with a cool, high-altitude breeze that acts as a natural buffer against the rising summer heat of the lowlands. The "Visual Integrity" of the Cogtong Bay coastline appearing through the morning fog provides a rare photographic opportunity that has made the park a viral sensation for May 2026. It is a sensory journey that tests your physical resilience while offering an immediate, breathtaking reward at the peak.
Mandatory Guides and Safety Integrity
To ensure the "Environmental Integrity" of the trail, the local government has fully implemented a mandatory guide system as of early May. For a modest fee of ₱300 for day hikes or ₱500 for overnight stays, local guides provide essential navigation through the cogon-covered terrain and share historical insights about the Mahayag area. These guides are often retired trail runners themselves, offering "Expert Advocacy" for the delicate ecosystem that hosts the Alicia Ultra. This system ensures that the influx of international tourists doesn't compromise the trail's condition, providing a sustainable model for community-based tourism in rural Bohol.
The Hub of the Alicia Ultra
Beyond the casual hiker, Batong Puti is currently serving as a "High-Altitude Laboratory" for elite athletes preparing for the internationally rated Alicia Ultra events scheduled later this month. The park’s unique terrain offers the "Elevation Training" necessary for long-distance trail running, making it a bustling hub for the local sports community this week. Entrance fees remain highly accessible at ₱50 for adults, while overnight campers pay an additional ₱30 to secure a spot under the stars. As the second week of May begins, Batong Puti stands as a testament to Alicia’s success in turning its rugged hills into a world-class destination for both high-stakes competition and quiet, natural reflection.
