Cross Country Experience in Bontang's
Exploring the Beauty of Kutai Forest
Borneo » Indonesia
Indri | August 1, 2025
🥾 Cross Country in Bontang: A Journey Full of Stories from the Start
Breathing in the morning air in an industrial city surrounded by forest and sea is thrilling. This is the hidden charm of Bontang, a small town in East Kalimantan, that serves as the perfect starting point for adventures into the wild.
Cross-country journey in Bontang, East Kalimantan is an exciting adventure activity, as natural treasures, including tropical forests, swamps, hills, and coastlines, surround the city. Each trail offers untouched beauty, making the area a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.
🎒 Packing backpacks and enthusiasm
The journey to participate in the cross-country event in Bontang begins with simple tasks, such as packing a backpack, tying my shoelaces, and maintaining a positive mindset. In the soft morning light, my gear, including a 45L carrier, mountain boots, and a waterproof sling bag, is ready for the long journey ahead. There’s nothing more exciting than the anticipation of an upcoming adventure.
These items are more than just tools. They are silent witnesses to every stage of Bontang’s cross-country endeavours. Each zipper that is closed and each rope that is tightened symbolises mental and physical preparation.
One of the keys to enjoying cross-country events in Bontang is managing load. We only carry the essentials. Enough to last the whole day, but not excessive. The backpack’s proportional weight ensures our back stays strong until the end of the trip.
In addition, using additional bags, such as a waterproof sling, helps me to access items without having to open the main carrier. This allows resting time to be used more efficiently, without the hassle of unpacking the bag.
The shafts of sunlight filtering through the trees made the morning feel magical. I greeted them silently with a smile and an expectant look. Although the adventure had yet to begin, these seconds of preparation felt like a ritual that rekindled the spirit of exploration.
About Me
Thanks for looking! I’m Indrian, and this is my travel blog.
I’m an Indonesian. Who loves traveling since was a kid, I’ve started exploring the forest around where I live and visiting some places with my friends or even camping together.
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Your support helps me keep making free travel guides on this blog. Thanks a lot !!
🌉 From Wooden Alley to City Street
Once we had gathered all our gear, we walked through a narrow alley lined with traditional coastal houses on stilts. The old wooden floorboards creaked softly beneath our feet, but remained sturdy enough to support us. The houses on either side were neatly arranged and painted in striking colours, which gave the atmosphere a lively impression that morning.
Our faces were lit up with cheerful laughter and excitement. We carried large carrier bags on our backs, which felt light because of our enthusiasm. We greeted each other with friendly smiles from our house windows. Little children waved and shouted happily.
Despite the narrowness of the wooden path, footsteps continued steadily towards the next rallying point. We knew that the real adventure had only just begun. As the sun slowly rose, illuminating every corner of the city, our spirits were lifted.
This trip was more than just an ordinary holiday. By taking part in the cross-country event in Bontang, we were able to reconnect with nature. It was also an opportunity to take a break from our hectic daily routines. In the silence and simplicity of nature, we learned to appreciate every moment, no matter how small.
🎫 Ticket to Adventure
The green bus from Arafat Jaya was a silent witness to our first steps. Our ticket from Samarinda to Bontang was more than just a piece of paper, it was a symbol of the beginning of our adventure. Sitting comfortably in the air-conditioned bus, we stared out of the window and imagined the landscapes that awaited us at the end of our journey.
Light laughter filled the cabin during the road trip to the port city. Songs from the offline playlist took turns to fill the atmosphere, adding to the excitement amid the occasional bout of drowsiness. The sound of the wheels clashing with the asphalt accompanied our long but pleasant journey like a melody.
We stopped briefly at the rest area to stretch our legs and breathe in some fresh air. While some of us bought local snacks, others leaned back and relaxed, preparing ourselves mentally for the challenging trail ahead. This short break was important, as it allowed us to prepare ourselves mentally and physically for being one with nature.
The cross-country vents in Bontang don’t just begin when we set foot in the forest. They start when tickets are bought, bags are packed, and people are ready to experience the world more naturally.
🚍 A short break at the petrol station: A Refreshing Little Moment
En route to the cross-country event in Bontang, even simple moments like stopping at a petrol station became an important part of the story. After a few hours of travelling in the bright green bus on the Samarinda–Bontang route, we pulled over at a petrol station. The grey sky loomed overhead, casting a calm yet slightly sombre atmosphere.
The passengers disembarked slowly. Some headed straight for the toilet, while others stretched or bought a drink. It’s not just about refuelling the vehicle, it’s also about giving the body and mind space to breathe before continuing the adventure.
The dynamics of the road seemed to pause as time stopped. It was here that we realised that every journey is not just about the destination, but also the meaningful stops along the way.
🚶 First step and first footprint.
Upon arriving in Bontang, we strolled along the quiet city streets in the afternoon. The sound of birdsong and the rustle of the wind accompanied our steps. Although our backs were weighed down by our backpacks, our spirits remained high.
On both sides of the road, we could see locals smiling and greeting us kindly. It was not just a greeting; it was a warm embrace from a small town welcoming us wholeheartedly. We felt as though we were not just travellers, but part of the story being written by Bontang City itself.
The road we walked on was clean and shaded. Old trees lined the pavement, their shade strengthening our steps. At each intersection, it felt as though the adventure was about to begin, taking us not only into the forest but also on a journey of self-discovery.
🧑🤝🧑 Cross-country participants should gather at the registration point
That morning, the courtyard of the Bontang City Youth and Sports Office began to fill with cross-country participants brimming with enthusiasm. Hailing from various regions, some had travelled from neighbouring cities and others had come from far and wide to take part in this adventure.
They have large backpacks on their backs, their hiking boots are touching puddles left over from last night’s rain, and they are wearing hats to shield their faces from the rising sun. Each participant wears a chest number and carries the necessary gear to face the natural environment. The atmosphere is boisterous yet orderly.
After the re-registration process and a technical briefing from the organisers, we were given time to prepare. Some participants seemed to know each other, while others struck up new conversations. It didn’t take long for us to become familiar with each other. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we felt like one big family, all heading towards nature and silence together.
🌳 Under the shade of the forest canopy.
The atmosphere changed immediately as soon as our feet touched the moist, crimson soil. The transition from the bustle of the city to the silence of the forest felt so natural. This isn’t just a cross-country in Bontang City, it’s a journey through pristine nature.
The roots of old trees were sticking out of the ground, prompting us to tread carefully. Some participants slipped slightly, but everyone laughed, helped each other, and continued the journey with vigour. Meanwhile, insects and birds chirped as if welcoming us into their territory.
We stopped for a moment at a rest area. The area was surrounded by tall trees with a soothing, shady canopy. There were simple wooden chairs available for us to relax on. Some of us sat around joking, some captured the moment with their cameras and some just stayed to enjoy the natural coolness.
There is a strong sense of togetherness here. There are no barriers between organisers and participants, or between beginners and experienced individuals. Everyone is immersed in the simplicity of the forest and shares laughter.
🌿 Finding Harmony with Nature on the Trail
After tackling the challenging initial trail, which featured slippery clay contours and dangling roots, we arrived at a quieter section. This is where the true essence of hiking in Bontang comes alive. The air became more humid, and the sun peeked through the gaps in the canopy of towering tropical trees.
Large trees on the left and right form a natural green passageway. Leaves danced in the breeze and the sound of breaking twigs and chirping birds created a jungle rhythm. The moss-covered wooden path added to the atmosphere, making it feel as if we were walking on a living stage of nature.
We stopped at a spot marked by a giant tree. There was a simple wooden bench underneath, where we could unwind. Some of my friends took this opportunity to take photos together, including me. There was genuine happiness in every smile. It wasn’t just because we could sit and rest, being in the middle of a pristine forest gave us a different kind of energy.
Interestingly, as we sat together, the conversation became more reflective. Some discussed the importance of protecting the forest, while others simply enjoyed the moment in silence. This is the beauty of Cross-country in Bontang, it’s not just a physical journey, but an emotional one too.
🍃 Checkpoint: A New Spirit in the Heart of the Forest
After an arduous trek through mud and uphill terrain, we arrived at one of the main checkpoints for the Kutai Wana Rally XIV series. A large banner reading ‘Forest Healing: Harmonising Nature and Humans’ greeted us. This theme is more than just a slogan, it is an invitation to reflect on the fact that the forest is not just a backdrop for our travels, but a source of life.
Participants were given time at this location to record points, take documentation, and unwind for a while. Many took the opportunity to have a drink, change their socks, or just have a laugh with the team. I also made sure to take a photo in front of the event banner as a memento of this amazing experience.
The momentum at this point was quite memorable. Despite our exhaustion, our spirits were recharged. Cross-country in Bontang is not just about exploring trails, it’s also about rekindling connections between people who may not have known each other before. Brotherhood feels warmer when everyone is in the same condition, sweaty and muddy, but happy.
🏞️ Become one with the giants of the forest: Footprints on Wooden Planks
After navigating several kilometres of muddy terrain and protruding tree roots, we arrived at a wooden boardwalk winding through giant trees. This path seemed to transport us to another dimension, a place of quiet majesty, full of life. Cross-country in Bontang isn’t just about walking the route, it’s about admiring the majesty of nature in all its glory.
This is where I paused for a moment. Three large trees stood tall, their roots and tendrils twining together as they reached into the sky. The weathered, mossy wooden boards added to the natural feel of the place, signalling that it had long been at one with nature. I leaned back, sighed, and savoured the rare experience of being in the middle of an untouched tropical forest.
The area is also ideal for reflection. There is no mobile phone signal. There is no sound of vehicles. Only the singing of birds and the gentle swish of the wind can be heard. Many participants chose this place as the backdrop for their photos because of its unadulterated beauty.
📸 The Finish Line: More than Just Completing the Route
After a long journey across wooden bridges and through tree roots and silent valleys, we finally reached the finish line. In the middle of the lush forest of Kutai National Park, a large sign reading ‘FINISH’ stood firmly. For some, this might just mark the end of the race. But for us, it symbolised victory over ourselves.
It was a mixture of sweat, mud, and laughter. Every step of the way was a lesson in patience and perseverance. Cross-country running in Bontang is not just about stamina, it’s also about mental endurance and gratitude. We clutched our medals not to show off, but as a symbol that nature had welcomed us and we had risen to its challenge with honour.
At this point, it is not uncommon for participants to shake hands or hug each other. A sense of relief and happiness dissolves all differences. We are no longer just ordinary cross countries, we are part of a community of nature lovers who appreciate every aspect of the forest.
🧘 After Cross-country: Time to Return to the Starting Point
After the event, we waited for transport back to the starting point. Some participants sat on the side of the road, resting their feet and stretching their muscles. One of us sat on the pavement, lost in thought, his tired but happy face visible. This moment taught us that physical exhaustion can feel light when the soul has been nourished by the beauty of nature.
Cross-country in Bontang is about more than just walking down a dirt track or crossing a wooden bridge. It’s also an inner journey that touches the deepest part of the self. When the body is exhausted, the heart grows stronger. We have learnt a lot from the forest about silence, patience and togetherness.
No one complained. Instead, laughter and short stories began to flow. Some shared their lunches while others took off their shoes to massage their feet. This simple atmosphere at the roadside seemed to provide an opportunity for reflection before returning to the routine of the city.
📍 Preparation before joining the cross country team in Bontang
If you’re planning to join a cross-country activity in Bontang, there are a few important things you should prepare to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Physique and Health:
Cross-country running is not just a stroll. The terrain can be slippery, with tree roots and long climbs. Make sure your body is in top shape. Start a light exercise routine, such as walking or jogging, a week before the event.
Personal Equipment:
Bring the following basic equipment:
Non-slip tracking shoes
Raincoat or poncho
Hat or buff
Drinking bottle (reusable)
Personal medication
Personal garbage bag
Tips for Cross-country in Bontang
To make your Cross-country experience in Bontang more exciting and memorable, follow these tips:
Arrive early for re-registration to avoid rushing.
Familiarise yourself with the route by reading the information or map provided by the committee.
Bring light snacks such as granola, nuts or chocolate to keep your energy levels up.
Don’t walk alone. Always walk in a group, especially on lush trails.
Engage with other participants. This is an adventure in nature, as well as an opportunity to network.
Warning during registration:
- Limited quota. Cross-country events usually have limited places. Make sure you register as soon as registration opens.
- All data must be valid. Use valid personal data, especially contact numbers and identification details. This is important for activity insurance and emergency purposes.
- Do not register more than once. Each person may only register once. Multiple registrations can cause the data to become unreadable to the system and be cancelled automatically.
- Avoid brokers. The entire cross-country registration process in Bontang is carried out directly by the organisers. Do not trust third parties who claim to be able to ‘guarantee’ a place.
💡 Important notes:
- Wear slip-resistant footwear, as some of the trails can be wet and humid.
- Bring enough drinking water, as the tropical climate causes the body to lose fluid quickly.
- Keep your rubbish in your bag, this is not only good practice for the Cross-country, but also an environmental responsibility.
🤝 Eating Together: A Warming Closing Ritual
When we arrived at our temporary residence, we gathered together for a meal. The simple dishes of rice, side dishes and hot tea tasted so good after a long day. The casual chats, laughter and jokes of my fellow travellers were the perfect end to the day’s adventure.
There was no need for a fancy party, we were content just sitting on a mat with plastic plates and warm drinks. This cosy setting reminded us that happiness doesn’t always come from big things often, it’s found in the small moments shared with people who have the same goals as you.
Cross-country in Bontang has given us so much not only has it shown us the area’s natural beauty, but it has also brought us new friendships and a genuine sense of togetherness. Sharing a moment after a long journey can strengthen bonds that were previously limited to casual acquaintanceship. Now, we are not just participants, but part of each other’s stories, and this is one of the ways we maintain our friendships.
Moments like these provide an important counterbalance to the hustle and bustle of physical activity. While hiking strengthens the body, eating together warms the heart.
🚗 In silence, we remember the journey.
On the way home, the car ride was quiet. Many of us fell asleep from exhaustion. However memories of the cross-country trip in Bontang continued to play out in our minds behind closed eyes.
Every step along the trail, every laugh echoing through the forest, and every drop of sweat becomes part of an unforgettable story. This journey is about more than just nature, it’s also about self-discovery, building connections, and relishing every unplanned moment that unfolds.
Even though we didn’t talk in the car, the silence felt meaningful. We didn’t say it directly, but we all knew we had shared something special.
The car ride became a time for reflection. What had just happened wasn’t just a trip, it was an experience we’d remember for years to come.
🌿 Come create your own story
Every journey has a story. This nature trek in Bontang gave us more than just beautiful scenery, it gave us memories, friendships, and lessons about the importance of spending time in nature.
If you want to experience a journey like this, don’t hesitate to plan it. Invite your friends, pack your gear, and take your first steps on the trails of Kalimantan.
📌 Bontang is always open to adventurers who want to return home with stories to tell.
🌟 Have you ever explored the wilderness in Bontang or elsewhere? Share your experiences in the comments section they might inspire others!
