Gunung Ulu Sepat

Gunung Ulu Sepat Trails Info

Height: 2,161 meters (7,089 feet); the 7th highest mountain in Peninsula Malaysia
Location: Near Chemor, Perak
Trail Length: 32 km (out-and-back)

• From Trailhead to Campsite: 10 km
• Campsite to Peak: 6 km
  Difficulty Level: Challenging (suitable for beginners with proper preparation)
  Average Completion Time: Approximately 3 days, 2 nights

Activities:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Stargazing

Best Times to Visit: Summer

Transport Options

4WD Vehicle:

• Sungai Siput: Hikers can take a 4WD from Bawong Sentral (Sungai Siput) to Kampung Kemar (480 m), which takes about 3.5 hours.

Boat (Recommended):

• If the 4WD track is poor, a boat can be taken from Banding across Tasik Temenggor. This option is more expensive, as a 4WD is still needed on the opposite side of the lake.

Trail Details

Starting Point:

• From Kampung Kemar, hikers embark on a 4-hour hike that includes river crossings.

Key Waypoints:

• Pintu Rimba (620 m)
• Kem Kulim (815 m)
• Kem Sungai Lenweng (1,075 m) - the main basecamp

Basecamp Features:

• Kem Sungai Lenweng is a small settlement with a few remaining Orang Asli residents.
• A hut is available for rent by hikers.
• Facilities: Includes toilets and a water point.

Day 2: Summit Attempt

Ascent:

• The trail steepens significantly, leading to:
  • False Peak (1,940 m)
  • Junction/Simpang Ulu Sepat (2,100 m)
• Most hikers reach the summit in about 6 hours.

Summit Conditions:

• Limited views due to dense vegetation.
• Viewpoint at 1,600 m with the last water point. (Guides usually do not recommend taking water at this point because descending is easier than ascending.)
• The journey from the last water point to Simpang takes about 2 hours of continuous ascent.

Descent and Return

Descent:

• The return journey follows the same trail and typically takes 3 to 4 hours (including breaks).

Total Hiking Time:

• The entire hiking time for the summit and descent (not including breaks) is approximately 6 to 7 hours.

Environment

• Rugged terrain with steep ascents and descents (ranging from 40 to 90 degrees near the summit).
• Dense vegetation near the summit.
• Possible wildlife encounters, including elephants and black panthers.
• FYI: From Simpang to the Peak, there is beautiful moss; however, be careful as there are green vipers that look similar to trees.

Trail Conditions

• During summer, the mud becomes wet, making it easier to walk, but be cautious with each step.

The summit features 70% bonsai trees and shrubs, offering limited visibility (approximately 100 degrees). The atmosphere is unique and pristine, with stunning views available from various locations