Volcanologists classify Hibok-Hibok or Catarman Volcano as a stratovolcano[1] and dome complex [5] with an elevation of 1,332 metres (4,370 ft) and a base diameter of 10 kilometres (6.2 mi).

[5] Volcanic activity is currently monitored through solar-powered autonomous stations operated by the Hibok-Hibok Volcano Observatory under the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

[9] On February 16, 1871, earthquakes and subterranean rumblings began to be felt on the island, which increased in severity until April 30 when a volcanic fissure opened up 400 yards southwest of the village of Catarman, on the northwest flank of Hibok-hibok Volcano.

From the opening, lava was continuously ejected and poured into the sea for four years, destroying the town.

In 1875, the Challenger expedition visited the area, and described the mountain as a dome, about 1,950 feet (590 m) in height, without any crater, but still smoking and incandescent at the top.

[4] The portion of the town containing a cemetery has subsided into the sea and is now marked with a huge white cross off the coast.

The remains of old Catarman, including the ruins of the ancient Spanish church, convent and a bell tower, are now called Gui-ob.

This time, however, it unleashed boiling lava, poisonous gases, and landslides enough to destroy nearly 19 square kilometres (7.3 sq mi) of land particularly in Mambajao.

It normally takes 3–5 hours to reach the summit; the usual jump-off is Ardent Hot Springs in Mambajao.

On the trail are the statues depicting the Roman Catholic Stations of the Cross, which are 14 events in the crucifixion of Jesus, at intervals on the climb.