There were those who made it to the summit as a matter of course. There were those who started with determination and though tested to the maximum along the way reached the top.

The Caribbean Forest Conservation Association's annual fundraising "Hike-A-Thon" this year represented one of the most challenging field trips to many of the association's members. There were people of all ages and from all walks of life, anxiously anticipating a trek to the summit of El Tucuche.

Over the past year, the field trip arm of the association performed a series of hikes designed to familiarize members with important natural areas. The 1999 field trip sites were selected to emphasize and study environmentally -sensitive areas. Members visited crucial watershed areas across the country.

The "Hike-A-Thon to El Tucuche was chosen by the association this time because of its element of challenge and its reward of accomplishment, not excluding the scenic aspects and educational benefits to be derived from the seven-hour-trek.

Early that Sunday morning, about 35 hikers divided into three groups began their hike at Caurita having received ample tips on preparation and conduct on the field. The objective of the guidelines stressed was to promote a general code of conduct and to prevent damage to the environment in keeping with the mission statement of the organization.

The services of Search and Rescue of Trinidad and Tobago rigorously trained by Louis Guy of both the CFCA and the Field Naturalists Club of Trinidad and Tobago proved to be an asset to the hikers as the trip proceeded through the forests of the proposed Maracas National Park. This source of guidance served as encouragement as well as entertainment to the trekkers, who, were it not for the seasoned advice of these guides, would not have made it to the top at all.

El Tucuche is the second highest mountain in Trinidad, attaining a height of 3072 ft. The beginning of the trek from Ortinola climbed through estate land for a considerable distance. Clumps of bamboo and one of the largest silk cotton trees in the valley presented respite. Jalaludin Khan, the resident consultant on botany and environmental management, educated and demonstrated the values of these species, including a touch of the myths and legends associated with the silk cotton.

Attaining the col after a steep climb, the trek became easier as the seemingly level trail allowed for a comfortable pace. Panoramic views of Piedra Blanca rearing its head over its surroundings and glimpses of the north coast were a treat to the group. Later to the south and south west, views of ridges tapering into the Maracas/St Joseph valley revealing lush mini valleys and even our own Angel Fall, the Maracas Waterfall. Its waters prominent against the band of stone forming its backdrop were rewarding sights. A few settlements shone in the early morning sunlight.

A waterfall along the trail, though somewhat diminished in volume, replenished many an empty water bottle and was a welcome rest spot along the way. This was the last bit of water crossing the trail to the summit. Familiar sounds of the manakin lek accompanied the group as it gained altitude. The characteristic mosses of these heights covered a few stories and the bases of trees; a few logs blocked the path here and there, but were made passable during a pre-visit done by the association.

Overall, everyone enjoyed an uninterrupted hike through pristine montane forest. They were thankful for the coolness and rejuvenation offered. Lanjacko seeds carpeted many sections of the trail.

After a few hours, the third group reached the climax of the journey, the summit of El Tucuche. The first two had already made it up and were beginning the return journey. The top was carpeted with low grass and fern fringed by other montaned vegetation on the slopes. A trig point marked the highest point on the summit.

As mists swirled around and below El Tucuche, between breaks in the whiteness, views of the Las Cuevas beach and La Fillette Point were enjoyed. Other high peaks and mountains of the Northern Range to the east seemed dwarfed by El Tucuche. To the south, Caroni stretched out its flatland as far as the eye could see.

Those of the group who had already attained this height stretched out too, utterly enjoying the peace and beauty before them.

It was an admirable occasion to witness the arrival of those who had attempted this hike at their won pace encouraged along the way by the accompanying guide. This was what any hike should accomplish, that feeling of attainment, that knowledge that once having started you have managed to finish. This trek to the summit of El Tucuche seemed to be all the more worth it to those present.

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