Trail 1: Brinchang Town to Gunung Brinchang
• Duration: 3–4 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Tough
• Guide & Permit Required: Yes
This challenging climb begins in Brinchang Town and ascends all the way to Gunung Brinchang, the highest peak in the Cameron Highlands. At 2032m, the summit rewards you with a spectacular panoramic view. Be prepared for a tough, unmarked ascent. A guide is highly recommended to navigate the dense jungle, and a permit is required, which you can obtain from the Forestry Department.
Trail 2: Sam Poh Temple
• Duration: 1.5 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Tough
• Guide & Permit Required: No
Starting at the serene Sam Poh Buddhist Temple in Brinchang, this trail is a short but strenuous up-and-down journey. The path is unmarked and demanding, eventually merging with Trail 3. It’s a great option for a quick, challenging hike without the need for a permit or a guide.
The Moderate to Tough Ascents: A Popular Choice
These trails offer a rewarding challenge and are a popular choice for half-day hikes.
Trail 3: Arcadia to Gunung Berembun
• Duration: 2.5 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Tough
• Guide Required: No
• Permit Required: Yes
A favorite among hikers, this trail starts at Arcadia Cottage near the Cameron Highlands Sultan Ahmad Shah Golf Club. It's a steep 2.5-hour climb to the summit of Gunung Berembun (1841m). While the view from the top may be overgrown, the journey itself is an invigorating experience. You can combine this with Trail 7 or Trail 8 for a longer adventure.
Trail 6 and Trail 10: Cameron Valley to Gunung Jasar to Tanah Rata
• Duration: 3–4 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Tough
• Guide & Permit Required: No
• Most Popular Hike!
This is a fantastic and highly popular half-day hike. The journey begins in Tanah Rata at the side entry for Trail 10 in Carnation Park. After an hour-long ascent, you'll reach the summit of Gunung Jasar, where you'll be rewarded with an unobstructed, breathtaking view of Tanah Rata and the surrounding highlands. The trail then merges with Trail 6, offering the option to descend to Cameron Valley or continue towards Gunung Perdah, where it connects with Trail 11 and Trail 12.
Trail 7: MARDI to Gunung Berembun
• Duration: 2 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Very Tough
• Guide Required: No
• Permit Required: Yes
For those who want a direct and steep route to Gunung Berembun, this is the trail for you. Beginning at MARDI, it's a straight-up climb to the summit in just two hours. The trail merges with Trail 3 and Trail 8. Hikers often recommend taking Trail 3 on the way down, as it is more scenic and easier to navigate.
Trail 8: Robinson Waterfall to Gunung Berembun
• Duration: 3 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Very Tough
• Guide Required: No
• Permit Required: Yes
This is a demanding 3-hour climb from Robinson Waterfall to Gunung Berembun. The trail is steep and challenging, eventually merging with Trail 3 and Trail 7 at the top.
The Easier Trails: For a Relaxed Stroll
Looking for something less strenuous? These trails are perfect for a gentle walk and a chance to enjoy the local scenery.
Trail 4: Forestry Department to Parit Waterfall
• Duration: 30 minutes (one way)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Guide & Permit Required: No
This is a delightful 30-minute walk that takes you from the Forestry Department to the serene Parit Waterfall, ending in Tanah Rata. It's a great option for a short, easy stroll and is often used by those hiking Trail 3 and Trail 7.
Trail 5: MARDI to Trail 3 (Gunung Berembun)
• Duration: 1 hour (one way)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Guide Required: No
• Permit Required: Yes
An easy one-hour walk that starts at MARDI and merges with Trail 3. From here, you can choose to either head to Arcadia Cottage or continue up to Gunung Berembun. On the way to Arcadia Cottage, you’ll also have the option to hike Trail 2.
Trail 9: Tanah Rata to Robinson Falls Weather Station
• Duration: 1 hour (one way)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Guide & Permit Required: No
Beginning in Tanah Rata, this trail descends to Robinson Falls and then continues with a steep and difficult scramble towards the Robinson Falls Weather Station.
Trail 9A: Robinson Falls to Habu Village
• Duration: 2 hours (one way)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Guide & Permit Required: No
An alternative to Trail 9, this route from Robinson Falls is less steep and takes about two hours to reach the BOH Tea Plantation Road near Habu Village.
Important Information Before You Go
How to Get a Permit:
Permits are required for some trails. You can obtain them from the Forestry Department in Taman Sedia, Tanah Rata.
Jungle Walks: Walk at Your Own Risk
• Time Management: Do not start a walk late in the afternoon. Some trails can take 3-5 hours, and you don't want to be caught in the jungle after dark.
• Stay Hydrated: Always carry bottled water and high-energy snacks.
• Stay on the Path: If you lose your way, retrace your steps. Do not continue forward on an unmarked path.
• Be Prepared: Always be careful and enjoy your walk!
Pro Tip: Before you start your hike, download the maps.me app. It's an invaluable tool that can help you navigate the trails and avoid getting lost.
Get ready to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cameron Highlands. Your unforgettable trail adventure awaits!
