Dare to Hike – Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

It was during the semester break that one of my friends, Ryan, suggested that we go hiking. It was scheduled on the 12^th of May, the first Sunday after our classes began. As someone who preferred less strenuous activities during my free time, you could guess that I wasn’t very thrilled with the idea. After several rounds of threats convincing, I finally relented. After all, it’s good to step out of your comfort zone once in a while, especially when you’re still young and fit with time to spare, right?

Hence, with my reluctant agreement, it was decided that four of us were to go, namely me, Ryan, Xi Wen and Ben. The hiking spot we chose was Apek Hill. Apek Hill is a popular hiking spot of moderate difficulty. Located at Cheras, Selangor, it consists of several starting points, namely at Cheras Awana, Cheras Hartamas, Wangsa Cheras and Taman Saga. There are 6 stations along the trail, as shown in the map below:

As the only person who hiked here before, Xi Wen was chosen as the unofficial leader of our little entourage. The night before, we were told to pack lightly— our phones, a small towel, water, some sweets or biscuits and a change of clothes.

On that day, after having a light breakfast at Gading (the mamak stall outside UCSI), we arrived at Cheras Awana at around 7.30am. The entrance to the hill is located inside a small neighbourhood. At the foot of the hill before the trail starts, there is a little vendor selling drinks and fruits.

After a drink, we officially began our first hiking experience together. There are many markers on the trees and ground along the path, so we didn’t have to worry about getting lost. The trail towards Station 1 was mostly downhill, leading to the “Small Bridge Station”, which consist of a small river with a little wooden bridge nearby. We took this opportunity to clean ourselves with the cool water. However, I do not recommend anyone to drink the water here.

Then, we started hiking towards Station 2. The path towards Station 2 was mostly uphill. Station 2 is a small station and there was nothing much here except for some wooden stools. It is a place for the hikers to rest.

After that, it was another upwards hike towards Station 3. Station 3 consists of an open area built with several voltage towers. Without many trees surrounding us, it was the hottest hike yet, so we went through the area quickly without stopping — except for a photo!

After the third station, the difficulty of the trail began to increase. The path onwards was less defined and much steeper. There were also some areas that were almost impossible to climb without some help. We had to hold on to the thick ropes provided or in some cases, tree roots and branches. Upper body strength was essential here. As a rookie hiker, it was very daunting indeed.

In order to cheer me up, my friends started singing and cracking jokes along the way, especially Ben. They were also always willing to lend a helping hand, and in this case, literally. Hence, despite the many times where I was tempted to stop and turn back, with my friends’ help and encouragement, I persevered.

After a long hike, we finally reached Station 3A.  Station 3A is somewhat similar to a recreational park, consisting of many stools, swings, a small ‘gym’ area and beautiful decoration. This is the place where many hikers were gathered, some of them chatting with one another, taking photos or even doing some light exercise. We took a long break here, as we (mostly just me) were both physically and mentally exhausted.

After some much needed rest, we headed towards Station 5 (even though I really did not want to leave). The hike towards Station 5 was a short one, thankfully. It quickly became my new favourite place because there were a drinks vendor and also free water supply, carried up here by volunteers.

From here onwards, we were headed towards unknown territory because Xi Wen had never hiked to Station 6 before. It felt a little like exploring a new land. We followed the markers on the ground carefully. Compared to the paths before, there weren’t as many markers and they were also not located as obviously as before. This is because most people usually stop at Station 5 before heading back, so this part of the trail was relatively unused.

Some time passed and we still have not reached the last station. It quickly became obvious that we took the wrong path since Station 6 was supposed to be nearby. After encountering a family who gave us some directions, we realised that we had followed the wrong markers. Instead of heading towards Station 6, we were headed towards a waterfall located much further. At that point, we were all exhausted, and debated whether we wanted to continue.

In the end, we decided to continue on to the waterfall. I have never been to a waterfall before, so I was pretty excited. In my opinion, this path was the most challenging of all because it was very steep, muddy and mostly downhill. However, with a new target in mind, we did not give up.

After what seemed like ages, we finally heard the sounds of water. Finally!

With renewed enthusiasm, we quickened our pace and in no time, finally reached the waterfall. The sight was beautiful. Cool, fresh water gushing over the rocks and leading into a tiny lake that shimmered and sparkled under the sunlight. We were overjoyed, and all our exhaustion were forgotten as we quickly took off our shoes to dip our feet into the cold water. We easily spent an hour chilling and playing under the cold splashes on the rocks. We also took many photos.

Of course, all good things had to come to an end, and soon enough it was time to leave. We took the same path back, just in reverse order. This time, we were motivated by the thought of food when we got out.

At around 2pm, we finally made it back to the starting point. Before leaving, we enjoyed some cooling coconut drinks at the drinks vendor at the entrance. At that time, we were the only ones there except for the stall owners. Everyone else had left ages ago!

In total, we spent almost seven hours hiking. Looking back, it does seem crazy! This is because for people who hike often, usually two to three hours is enough. But hey, we preserved through the end, and that was what mattered the most, right?

Not only that, the people here were also friendly and helpful, so it is safe for new and inexperienced hikers. We learned that it has become a weekly routine for the locals to hike together, and hence explains the tight-knitted community here.

All in all, the hike for me was not easy, but it was worth it. Despite the many obstacles faced, with a strong sprit and great friends, anything is worth the journey. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I gained a new amazing experience. If I could do it, then so could you!