Bukit Gombak Trail gave me a peace of mind

I’ve never been much of an outdoor person. I may have played indoor sports or done some home exercises occasionally, but being under the sun has never been my cup of tea. 

I hated the heat, insect bites and I would do anything to avoid getting a tan. 

So when I was asked to write about my experience at the newly opened, 4.8ha park, Bukit Gombak trail, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. But since I’d be going with my friends, I thought to myself: This should be fun. 

And it really was. 

I have been hustling ever since I left secondary school. Juggling part time jobs with school and personal responsibilities meant that I have a lot on my mind. 

Taking a hike at Bukit Gombak, though, gave me the peace and serenity I’ve been craving for the longest time. 

Being at an outdoor hiking trail, I was bound to meet some creepy-crawlers and the flying ones even. You may be afraid or disgusted by these insects but trust me, they are more afraid of you.

I watched them from afar and even got a chance to snap some pictures. These creatures are diverse in colours, skin texture and patterns on their bodies. 

There is even a butterfly garden at the top of the park, which houses colourful flowers and over 20 different species of butterflies.

Aside from the bugs, squirrels and lizards, the Bukit Gombak trail is a great place for our furry friends. Watching dogs playing catch or just chasing their own tails could make me smile for the rest of my day.

There weren’t many dogs seen on the Wednesday morning I went, but some dog owners told me it would be packed on a weekend evening. Other dog owners added they avoided the afternoon sun as the grass may be too warm and dogs can get thirsty quickly. 

Still, the park felt like a great location for some bonding time with pets. Like what I always tell myself, happy pets, happy life.

What I also liked about Bukit Gombak trail is how it is suitable for all ages. I do believe that a friendly-family space allows families to stay happy together. 

This would be a great relaxation time over the weekends for parents. Even I had a chance to use the equipment and it felt great! 

Just like an outdoor mini gym, I got to let loose and put my frustrations out on the facilities and sweat it out.

Enjoying the views in Bukit Gombak was my favourite part of all. I’ve always thought that Singapore doesn’t have much of nature’s beauties, but I was wrong.

Coming straight out of a movie scene, I didn’t even notice the view until I turned around as there was a bee in my face. The air here was crisp and I could feel short breezes every few minutes. Sadly, the forest is a restricted area. 

Staying at home most of the time and working from home limited my views. I was amazed by nature the moment I saw how beautiful Bukit Gombak trail was. 

Being away from my screens made me appreciate Singapore’s nature more. At the end of my hike, I told myself that I actually needed this. Being cooped up at home during this pandemic really took a toll on my mental and physical well-being. 

Perhaps, being in the sun around nature isn’t too bad after all. All I could say is that hiking at Bukit Gombak was worth the slight tan and insect bites.

Like what writer Charlotte Eriksson said: “There’s a whole world out there, right outside your window. You’d be a fool to miss it.”