The founders of SYTC, John Patrick (JP) Ermitanio and Christian Cruz, decided to begin this group over last summer to help teenagers and young adults explore nature, while having fun.
The current SYTC members hiked and explored many places such as the Sink Hole Cave, “Cowtown Beach”, Laderan Banadero, Forbidden Island, Xterra Trail, and Lao Lao Cove.
The Sink Hole Cave is located at the north end of Saipan. The cave is a complex cave that leads you to the very bottom of “Saipan’s earth.” In the caves, you can find many WWII artifacts.
“Cowtown Beach,” as known by the members of SYTC, can be found in the northern most part of Saipan. You could also find a few WWII Japanese bunkers there.
The trail to Laderan Banadero begins at Suicide Cliff. The trail is marked with multiple ribbons, so it will be easy finding it. As you hike, you will find a cave-like area. If you decide to go into the cave, be careful for rocks that are loose.
Forbidden Island is located at the east side of Saipan. There is an open trail that leads from the top to the bottom of where the ocean is. There are ropes that can be used for climbing down steep, rocky areas. Forbidden Island has beautiful scenery.
The Xterra Trail begins from Navy Hill and goes down to China Town. Hiking along the Xterra Trail, you will find a cave. The trail is not noticeable, but there are yellow ribbons on trees to notify you of the right direction.
To get to Lao Lao Cove, follow the road along Lao Lao Beach, which can be found in San Vicente. To find the trail, you must keep an eye out for the first sharpest turn you see and go in. In the corner, there is a small opening that will lead you to a ravine. Just follow the ravine down and you are well on your way to explore the beauty of Lao Lao Cove.
During their busy lives today, teenagers and young adults hardly take the time to go out and explore nature.
These trails and more are some of Saipan’s natural wonders that should not be taken for granted. So, take the time to take a morning or evening hike and appreciate the wonders of nature.
If you are interested in joining SYTC, submit a paragraph description of yourself, and include your age, the reason why you want to join, and contact information and e-mail it to [email protected]
Applicants don’t need any hiking experience and need to be between the ages of 15 – 21 years old.
