Wright Park | Baguio

Information

Landmark: Wright Park
City: Baguio
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Wright Park, Baguio, Philippines, Asia

Wright Park is a public park located in the eastern part of Baguio City, Philippines. It is situated directly in front of The Mansion, the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines.

Visual Characteristics

The park is divided into two main sections. The upper section features the Pool of Pines, a long, rectangular man-made pond lined with towering Baguio pine trees. At the end of the pond stands a stone structure with wide steps leading to the lower section. The lower area is characterized by a dusty, circular trail used for horseback riding. The overall aesthetic is rustic and forested, typical of the Cordillera highlands.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Romulo Dr, Baguio, 2600 Benguet.

Access: Located across the street from The Mansion.

Transport: Easily accessible via jeepneys labeled "Mines View" or "Pacdal" from the Baguio City Public Market or Session Road. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available.

Entry: Admission to the park is free. Fees are required for horseback riding and photography in traditional Igorot attire.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Named after Governor-General Luke Edward Wright, the park was established during the American colonial period as part of the urban design for Baguio. It was intended to serve as a recreational area for the occupants of The Mansion. Ecologically, it remains one of the city's significant clusters of mature Benguet pine trees (Pinus insularis).

Key Highlights & Activities

Horseback Riding: The park's primary attraction, where visitors can rent horses for guided rides within the park or longer trails nearby.

Pool of Pines: A popular spot for photography, known for its symmetrical reflection of the sky and trees.

The Mansion Gate: Visitors often cross the road to take photos at the ornate gate of the presidential residence.

Traditional Costumes: Stalls near the entrance allow visitors to rent traditional Igorot clothing for souvenir photos.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park features stone benches along the Pool of Pines, public restrooms (often for a fee), and numerous kiosks selling snacks, strawberry taho, and locally made souvenirs. The stairs connecting the upper and lower sections can be strenuous for some. 5G cellular coverage is stable.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily. Early mornings (07:00–09:00) offer the crispest mountain air and the best lighting for the pond. Weekends and holidays are extremely crowded with tourists, making weekdays preferable for a quieter experience.

Facts & Legends

While primarily a leisure spot, the park is integral to the cultural identity of Baguio as a former American hill station. The horse handlers at the park, known as "pony boys," are a distinct local community with their own traditions and history.