The Mount Muria 29 Peak Summit Trek with the Kudus Regent Highlights the Area's Potential for Sustainable Tourism

KUDUS – Dawn had not yet fully broken when hundreds of hikers began their ascent toward Songolikur Peak in Rahtawu Tourism Village, Gebog District, on Saturday morning. Among the group was Kudus Regent Sam’ani Intakoris, who walked alongside local residents, military personnel, volunteers, conservation groups, and tourists from various regions. On the trail carving through the slopes of Mount Muria, the distinction between official and citizen seemed to vanish, as everyone moved in unison toward the summit.

The hiking event, titled “Climbing the Mountain with the Regent,” proved to be more than just a weekend sports activity. The journey to the site, standing at approximately 1,602 meters above sea level (masl), served to promote the natural tourism potential of the Muria Mountains while fostering local economic growth for communities living on its slopes.

Exploring Nature's Trail

The path to Peak 29 offered evolving landscapes as the elevation increased. Lush trees formed a natural canopy, the mountain air felt crisp, and the sounds of birds and insects provided a steady backdrop throughout the climb.

At several rest stops, modest kiosks owned by residents served as gathering points for hikers and locals alike. A cup of coffee, hot tea, or a bowl of instant noodles provided more than just a reprieve from fatigue; it underscored the role of tourism in driving economic activity along the hiking trails.

The atmosphere highlighted that mountain climbing offers more than just scenic beauty; it creates direct connection between visitors and the communities dedicated to preserving the mountainous region.

Promoting Muria Through Trekking

Upon reaching Peak 29, Kudus Regent Sam’ani Intakoris stated that the event was part of the Kudus Regency Government’s initiative to showcase the natural wonders of the Muria Mountains.

“Praise be to God, we have reached Peak 29. The purpose of this event is both athletic and recreational, aimed at introducing the various peaks in Kudus, one of which is Peak 29. Let us keep our environment clean, both through our sports and tourism activities,” said Sam’ani.

According to the Regent, the Muria Mountains host a wealth of hiking destinations, each with its own character, ranging from Natas Angin, Jembangan, Argopiloso, and Songgo Langit, to several other peaks that remain relatively unknown to the general public.

This diversity of trails provides a foundation for nature-based tourism development. However, he emphasized that this development must remain balanced with efforts to preserve the forest area.

“We explore, but we do not damage,” he asserted.

This message serves as a reminder that promoting natural destinations is not just about increasing visitor numbers, but also about the responsibility to protect the ecosystem that serves as the Muria region's primary attraction.

Infrastructure and Safety as Key Development Priorities

Beyond tourism promotion, Sam’ani noted that developing climbing areas requires adequate infrastructure support and robust, continuously improved safety systems.

He hopes for improved access to tourist areas to make it easier for visitors to reach various climbing trails. Simultaneously, security aspects necessitate attention through the implementation of more modern climbing protocols.

“We must improve climbing protocols to prevent casualties. Implementing GPS wristbands would be ideal so that any lost climbers can be located immediately. Infrastructure is also essential to support tourism,” he stated.

This proposal highlights that nature-based tourism development involves more than just destination marketing; it also requires facility readiness to ensure visitor safety in mountainous regions.

Natural Authenticity as Muria’s Main Draw

The beauty of the Muria Mountains is also recognized by forest management officials. Teguh Jumadi Yanto, Head of the Ternadi Forest Management Resort (KRPH) under the Muria Pati Ayam Forest Management Section (BKPH) and Pati Forest Management Unit (KPH), emphasized that the landscape's authenticity remains the region's greatest asset.

The region offers varied activities, from climbing and religious tourism to trekking with panoramas ideal for photography and videography.

“The attraction of Mount Muria lies in its pristine natural atmosphere and views that serve as perfect spots for photos and videos,” he said.

As consumer interest in nature-based tourism grows, preserving such well-maintained regions becomes increasingly important.

Collective Preservation of Nature

According to Teguh, the development of nature tourism must be balanced with efforts to preserve the forest region. As such, his office continues to educate the public and stakeholders through tree-planting initiatives and regional monitoring.

He also reminded all visitors to comply with regulations while on the hiking trails.

"Do not damage nature, do not litter, do not smoke indiscriminately, and continue to respect the local environment," he urged.

This appeal is a vital part of building a culture of responsible tourism. Forest preservation depends not only on land managers, but also on the behavior of every individual who comes to enjoy the beauty of Muria.

Stalls Along the Hiking Route Benefit Economically

Increased climbing activity has had a direct impact on small businesses along the route.

Sukatmi, the owner of a stall at Post 4 on Puncak 29, has served hikers for seven years. She noted that high-traffic events significantly boost her sales.

"When there are events like this, thank God, it is very busy. The most popular items are fried snacks, coffee, hot tea, instant noodles, and cold drinks. I hope more events like this are held, as the crowds help sales," she said.

For the residents of the Muria slopes, hikers are more than just passing guests; their presence is a crucial economic driver that sustains small businesses in the mountain region.

Social Media Draws Hikers to Muria

The allure of Muria has also attracted visitors from outside the region. One such participant is Amana Restu Aulia from Demak, who decided to join the activities after seeing a post from the Regent of Kudus on social media.

“I was interested after seeing the Regent's video on TikTok, so I decided to try it myself. I love hiking; I've been to mounts Andong, Ungaran, and Lawu, and this is my second time on the 29 trail. The route is pleasant, the nature remains pristine, and the air is cool,” she said.

Amana's experience highlights the growing role of social media in shaping public interest in nature tourism. When information is paired with positive visitor experiences, the appeal of a destination can attract a wider audience of potential tourists.

Small Steps Toward Sustainable Tourism

The trek to Puncak 29 demonstrates that nature tourism is about more than just reaching a mountain's summit. Along the trail, there are stories of local residents running stalls, forest managers preserving the landscape, guides sharing insights about each route, and curious visitors drawn to the region.

Through the “Hiking with the Regent“ initiative, the Muria Mountains illustrate how sports, recreation, environmental conservation, and community empowerment can coexist. Each step on the trail brings climbers not only closer to the summit but also connects them with the local communities living in harmony with the natural environment.

With continued investment in infrastructure, mountain safety, and conservation efforts, Muria is well-positioned to develop as a nature tourism destination that maintains its environmental integrity. Ultimately, the region's strength lies not merely in its peaks, but in its ability to offer an experience that bridges the gap between humanity, nature, and the lives of those on the mountain slopes. (ITN/mainkekudus)