“EPOL” may stand for Everlasting Power of Love—but for many of us, it’s also Everlasting Peace of Landscape.
A Waterfall with a Love Story
Cheesy, right? But did you know EPOL is short for Everlasting Power of Love? That acronym came with a legend—according to a Matislaognon (an indigenous group in Marilog), Epol Falls witnessed a secret love affair. The lovers were separated by disapproving parents, only to reunite later in life. Since then, the falls have been tied to stories of romance—and maybe a few more recent “escapades.”
Modern myths aside, I wasn’t there for a love story. I came back for peace, nature, and photos—nine years after my first visit.
Getting There
Located about 100 kilometers northeast of Davao City, Epol Falls is an easy two-hour drive via the elevated and scenic Bukidnon-Davao (BuDa) Road. The jump-off point is easy to miss, especially at night. (Pro tip: check the GPS coordinates before you leave.)
The Epol Campsite: Rustic, Clean, and Cool
After missing the jump-off thrice, we reached the Epol registration area at dusk. A quick registration, a small fee, and we were trekking downhill for 20 minutes to the forest campsite. Nestled under tall trees, the area has two log cabins. With night temperatures dipping, we chose a cabin over tents. A clean spring nearby provides water—boil or bring your own.
There’s no electricity, but LED lamps and kerosene lanterns (lamparas) do the trick. Dinner was cooked old-school with butane burners. We skipped the plastics and used our trek cooksets and bare hands—minimal impact, maximum bonding.
This trip also doubled as a reunion for our group of veteran trekkers—engineers, medics, seafarers, teachers, and a photographer-driver (me). Laughter, coffee, Emperador, and decades of stories filled the evening.
The 5:30 AM Falls
At sunrise, I hiked to the falls with our young guide. Nine years is a long time, but little had changed—except for a landslide mark and a few wooden benches near the descent. Forest sounds, icy water, and filtered golden light greeted us.
We were alone at Epol Falls at 5:30 AM.
- The catch basin was shallow, but the cold? Brutal.
- From the left side facing the falls, there’s an amazing photo vantage point.
- Misty spray. Crystal water. Old trees. Nothing short of magical.
No wonder this place is known as a lovers’ hideaway. You will fall in love—either with the falls, or the one you’re with.
The Ice-Cold Dip
After breakfast, we returned to the falls for a quick dip. Only a handful of other visitors were there, so we had most of the place to ourselves.
Five minutes in the water was enough—it’s that cold. Even our guide stayed dry.
After the bath, we trekked past Jordan Falls (another stop from a decade ago) and packed up for our next adventure.
Why I’ll Keep Coming Back
Epol is affordable, accessible, and beautifully preserved.
If you want a sustainable, serene place for mindful photography, reconnecting with friends, or just cold, clean peace—Epol Falls is the one.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pluses:
- Close to Davao City
- No concrete eyesores near the falls
- Spring-fed water source and rustic campsite
- Affordable entry, kind locals
⚠️ Needs Improvement:
- A dedicated dishwashing area away from the spring is needed. Runoff shouldn’t mix with the natural source.
Let’s keep Epol Falls lush, green, and story-worthy for the next generation.
Filed under: Mindful Frames | Hiking & Trails
