Week 16 - 18th April '99

Exploring Quartz Ridge: A Journey of Adventure and Discovery

My weekly travel plans were progressing splendidly, even exceeding my expectations. As always, the destination was set, but the question lingered—who would join me, and how many? This week’s outing took shape when FK, having recently accompanied me on another adventure, suggested we tackle the Quartz Ridge. It was a place he had yet to explore, and I gladly agreed to revisit this intriguing locale.

Today’s companions were FK and Charles, two relatively new faces in my travel circle. Joyce and Khoo decided to sit this one out. Quartz Ridge is not for the faint-hearted; the hike is treacherous, and the climb demands both physical endurance and mental resilience. However, the rewards are undeniable. From the ridge, the sweeping views of Ulu Klang Lake and the Melawati housing estate on the southern face are nothing short of breathtaking. With plans to capture these stunning scenes, we set off on what promised to be both a challenging and rewarding adventure.

The Ascent Begins

The journey started with a steep climb from the trailhead to the “Spine” of the ridge. Quartz Ridge resembles a slumbering dragon, its spiny back protruding sharply from the surrounding forest. Spanning 26 kilometers, it forms a semi-circle that encircles the Klang Valley. The “Spine” is divided into two main sections: the northern sector, about one kilometer long, and the southern peak. These two portions are not connected, and while the southern peak sees few visitors, the northern stretch is a popular spot for hikers and adventurers.

The ridge’s spine is a straight, jagged range with razor-sharp peaks undulating through the forest. Hiking here means navigating steep ascents to reach the ridge’s lowest points, then traversing one peak after another. The trail is as exhilarating as it is demanding, offering stunning panoramic views that make every effort worthwhile.

A Familiar Path, with a New Discovery

For me, this hike felt like treading familiar ground. The views of the Ulu Klang Dam and the surrounding landscapes, though captivating, were not new. I assumed it would be another routine outing, simply adding to my personal records. However, this trip brought an unexpected twist—the discovery of quartz crystals. As we explored, we stumbled upon these natural treasures scattered along the trail. While not particularly valuable, the crystals were a delightful surprise and became a highlight of the journey.

 

 

We were rushing off to beat the traffic for our regular mid-week get-together. We left FK in a hurry. That guy, FK, he was to check up the late night mail for final confirmation. Where are we off to?

T h e Q u a r t z R i d g e

1 Vincent climbing

This was really an impromptu trip -decided at the 11th hour when Vincent met up with FK. The day started beautifully with Vincent ready before me. Oh! FK finally made it. He was not bad either, late by 1 minute.

On our way we picked up Beng Inn. It was going to be long climb of about 3 hours. But at 6.45 am it was too early to have breakfast! We however decided to force something down the stomach before going up the Quartz Ridge.

After the moderately heavy roti canai, we hastily ascend to the "backbone" of the Ridge. We had to be up there, like Khoo put it before 7.00 am. [Time for sunrise is brought forward]

2 Vincent perched on the slope

3 Could see the Dam and the reflections on the water

 

We were in time and then up on the 2nd peak just in time to see the clouds starting to lift off from the lake surfaces and surrounding forest. 

Layers of them then drifted out of the valley of the lake and pass by the gap below us.

4 Peeping through the foliage to see the lake

5 Rest time, the ridge here was broad

Vincent was slowly heaving himself up the cliff wall, actually he couldn't wait to get to the top - his 3rd kidney was working equally hard.

We stayed on for a while at that peak until the reflection on the water picked up the sun’s image. Unfortunate for us, when the sky was bright, the weather for that day turned out to be hazy

Now you can see Vincent in a pensive mood! He made his way up several cliff walls, heaved himself up the rope!

The continuation of the Ridge on the opposite hills and the Kuala Lumpur skyline were not ideal subjects for photography.

Beng Inn was coaxed to divulge the spot for the much sort after crystals as Uncle Vincent braved the climb and was  determined to do some souvenirs hunting.  

Are we there for the climb? The view ? or honestly for the crystals? A close up view of the cluster of crystals

Please note that these crystals cannot be chiseled off from their anchorage. They are part of the rock formation and will disintegrate into useless fragments. They are mined with professional tools. If you cannot collect them, leave whatever is left for those who come after you to admire.

 

6 Now the narrow ridge with sharp edges too

Finally, we all get to sit down on this narrow " razor sharp backbone" of the Ridge.

7 The forward peak hardly visible in the morning shroud of clouds

 The sun wa not out of the hills yet and lighting was poor for any quality photograph

8 A better view of the two peaks ahead

The climb was exciting, the journey equally interesting. There were unique footing to cling onto and views from mountain peaks was always breathtaking. Here we didn't get to climb only one peak but a series of peaks. If you are a photographer, bring adequate supply of film, the view from each peak to the next get better with each new heights scaled.

9 Mountain "Crawling" not hiking

 

Next there was this small zone conducive to support a moss forest. 

This is not a widespread area but climbers will experience a temperature change and an entirely different ambience.

10 Section with ropes

Yes, there is a part, where the journey can be continued with the aid of ropes. One thick and a thin double

After a good rest and examining the ground for fragments of quartz we continued on the upward climb. It was one summit after another. The path was clear but always precariously moving along the sharp peak with cliff faces on both sides. 

A feeling and scene not for the faint hearted.

12 The Quartz crystals

Besides the journey and the views, there were the quartz formations. Regrettably, curious climbers had damaged many beautiful pockets of crystals.

For souvenir, there are many tiny fragments on the ground. Though they will not be making any impression back home, just do it for your own remembrance of the hike.

The final reward - It was the climb, the majestic view, and the sense of having being there! The crystals seen were of a grade nowhere near those on display in the shop.

13 View of Quartz Ridge from Taman Melawati

Ever noticed a white cliff when you passed by the Toll house? The view of the Ridge with the Gombak toll house on the left. This was the tail end of a 14 kilometers long lime stone outcrop.

The same ridge as seen from the Batu Cave access.

Reflections and Gratitude

The allure of Quartz Ridge is hard to resist. When FK suggested this hike, it felt like a sign—an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Despite the challenges and dangers, including the sobering statistics of accidents and fatalities on the ridge, the adventure was worth every moment. With proper caution and preparation, we safely navigated the rugged terrain.

Photography was another key goal for the day. The bird’s-eye views from the ridge’s peaks are unparalleled, and I never tire of capturing them. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t ideal, and the ambience of the day didn’t lend itself to the best shots. Even so, I’m grateful for the pictures I managed to take and, more importantly, for the safe and fulfilling experience.

In the end, the Quartz Ridge adventure rewarded us with not just stunning views but also the thrill of discovery. I’m thankful for the quartz crystals we found and for the Lord’s blessings, ensuring a safe and memorable journey.
 

Khong's Travel Guide