Ascent of Kinabalu - Via Bowen's Route
By late Brent Raymond
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
This route starts at the Laban Rata complex and traverse below cliff bands through high leptospernum forest to reach the East Plateau. Originally, this route involved technical rock climbing to negotiate the cliff bands, however, today fixed ladders permit easier access. Although no technical equipment is necessary, one should be comfortable with heights as the ladders are exposed and a trip would be disasterous. A full day return from Laban Rata to King George Peak and a nice break from the crowds on the tourist trail. Chances are you'll be the only ones on this route!
From the resthouse at Laban Rata, follow the tourist trail up the stairs to a small cairn on the right a short distance before the cliff bands begin. Follow a reasonable trail (usually flagged with coloured tape) which traverses below the major cliff bands. Scramble through boulders and down the occasional short, scrambly section to reach the tangled forest of Leptospernum. Once in the forest, follow the trail (well marked) until it climbs into a steep sided gully. The trail traverses up the right side of the drainage and a short scramble will bring you onto the top of a cliff band. From here look for cairns to lead you through the cliff bands above. Aluminum ladders and fixed ropes offer easy access up the steeper sections (and show you the way!). The final section consists of several steep slabs negotiated by ladders to the East Plateau.
From the top of the last ladder, you can continue scrambling up to explore the East Plateau. Many parties climb to King George Peak and then return to Laban Rata. Cairns will lead you both up to King George Peak and, more importantly, back to the top of the ladders which can be difficult to find on descent.