Beyond the Beaches: Uncover St. John's Hidden Gems
St. John’s lush interior is often overlooked by visitors who flock to the island’s beautiful beaches. But those who venture beyond the coastlines are rewarded with breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable hiking experiences. In this post, we’ll explore some of St. John’s off-the-beaten-path hiking spots that will take you on an adventure like no other.
Introduction
St. John is a small island in the US Virgin Islands, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs. But beyond the beaches lies a world of lush forests, sparkling waterfalls, and scenic vistas that are waiting to be explored. In this post, we’ll explore some of St. John’s off-the-beaten-path hiking spots that will take you on an adventure like no other.
Hiking Trails
St. John has several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the island’s lush interior. One of the most popular trails is the Reef Bay Trail, which takes you through a lush forest and ends at the beach. This trail is about 3 miles long and takes around 2 hours to complete.
Another popular trail is the Bordeaux Mountain Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. This trail is about 4 miles long and takes around 4 hours to complete.
Waterfalls
St. John has several waterfalls that are hidden in the island’s lush interior. One of the most popular waterfalls is the Enchantment Falls, which is located in the island’s national park. To get to this waterfall, you’ll need to hike for about an hour through a dense forest.
Another popular waterfall is the Cane Bay Waterfall, which is located near the island’s capital city. This waterfall is smaller than the Enchantment Falls but is still worth visiting.
Wildlife
St. John has a wide variety of wildlife that can be seen in its lush interior. One of the most popular animals to spot is the brown pelican, which can often be seen flying overhead or perched on rocks along the coast.
Another animal to look out for is the green sea turtle, which can often be seen swimming in the island’s coral reefs. And don’t forget about the island’s unique flora, such as the Cassia tree and the Jabuticaba fruit tree.
Practical Tips
Before you head out on your adventure, here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
- Bring plenty of water: St. John is a dry island, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The hiking trails can be rugged and steep, so make sure you have sturdy shoes that will protect your feet.
- Bring snacks: There are no restaurants or stores along the hiking trails, so bring some snacks with you.
Conclusion
St. John’s lush interior is a world of adventure waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views, hidden waterfalls, or unique wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this island paradise. So why not venture beyond the beaches and discover St. John’s off-the-beaten-path hiking spots?
About James Martinez
As a local expert and travel enthusiast, I've spent years exploring the USVI's hidden gems and sharing my passion for St. Thomas' nightlife, St. John's national parks, and all the island secrets in between on us-virgins.com.