In short
- The Pinnacles trek is a grueling 2.4 km climb ascending 1,200 meters.
- You must navigate 15 near-vertical aluminum ladders near the summit.
- Climbing gloves are mandatory for the sharp limestone.
In this article
Choosing between the Mulu Pinnacles trek vs Mount Kinabalu depends on the challenge you want. The Pinnacles hike is shorter in distance but requires intense scrambling over sharp rocks.
How hard is the Mulu Pinnacles trek compared to Kinabalu?
The Pinnacles trek is incredibly steep, ascending 1,200 meters over just 2.4 kilometers.
While Mount Kinabalu features long sections of stairs, the Pinnacles trail is a rugged jungle scramble. You will navigate roots, rocks, and mud. You must wear sturdy, non-slip hiking boots with excellent grip.
How long does the Pinnacles trek take?
The summit climb takes 8 to 10 hours round trip from Camp 5.
You must first reach Camp 5, a rustic jungle basecamp by the Melinau River. You will sleep there before starting the summit trek early the next morning. There is no food provided at Camp 5, so you must bring provisions.
What technical skills do you need for the Pinnacles?
You do not need ropes, but you must climb steep aluminum ladders.
You must bring gardening or climbing gloves for the rope and ladder sections. The final stretch requires upper body strength to pull yourself up the 15 ladders over razor-sharp limestone karst formations.
Do you need a guide for the Pinnacles?
Yes, all treks in Gunung Mulu National Park require an official park guide.
The park enforces strict minimum age requirements, usually 16 years old for the Pinnacles. Once you leave the Park Office, you will not get a refund if you turn back due to fitness, water levels, or weather.
What is the environment like on the Pinnacles trail?
Expect hot, humid jungle conditions rather than cold mountain air.
Rain is frequent year-round, so you need a lightweight raincoat or poncho. You will also encounter mosquitoes, sandflies, and leeches on the lower trails to Camp 5. Bring insect repellent and leech socks.
When should you hike the Mulu Pinnacles?
The driest months from July to September offer the safest trail conditions.
Heavy rain makes the limestone spikes and aluminum ladders extremely slippery. If weather conditions are too dangerous, guides may cancel the summit attempt for safety reasons.
Questions travellers ask
Can I do the Pinnacles trek in one day?
No. You must stay overnight at Camp 5 before starting the 8 to 10-hour round trip climb the next morning.
Are there leeches on the Pinnacles trail?
Yes, especially on the jungle trail leading to Camp 5. You should pack leech socks for the approach.
How do you get to the start of the Pinnacles trek?
You must travel by boat and trek through the jungle to reach Camp 5, the basecamp for the Gunung Api climb.
