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Mt. Apoi Area

Endemic alpine plants supported by peridotite: Mt. Apoi Area

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Mt. Apoi is relatively easy to climb because no heavy gear is required. However, climbers need a certain level of fitness to negotiate the 700-m medium-gradient approach to the trailhead, which is at an elevation of 80 meters about a kilometer inland.

After the trailhead is a stretch of mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forests that are home to a variety of herbaceous plants. Near the fifth-stage mountain lodge is the forest limit, where a dwarf stone pine zone extends over rugged peridotite ground. Colorful alpine plants also begin to stand out in this area. The trail here provides panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean on a clear day, and the Umanose area also affords spectacular views of the Hidaka Mountains and other sights.

It takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours to reach the summit, and 4.5 to 6 hours for the round trip. Mt. Apoi - a rich habitat for flowers - is made up of peridotites from deep in the earth's mantle. Climbers flock there year after year to enjoy its precious natural environment.