St. John vs. St. Croix Hiking Trails: Top 5 Comparisons

Introduction

The United States Virgin Islands are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. Two of the main islands, St. John and St. Croix, boast an array of trails that provide breathtaking views, unique geological features, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. In this post, we will compare the top 5 hiking trails on both islands, highlighting their distinct characteristics, challenges, and attractions.

Trail Comparison: St. John vs. St. Croix

Reef Bay Trail - St. John

The Reef Bay Trail is one of the most popular hikes on St. John, stretching approximately 3 miles through a lush rainforest to the historic Reef Bay sugar mill. The trail descends into the valley, where visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Practical Example: To hike the Reef Bay Trail, start at the Cruz Bay Visitor Center and follow the well-marked signs. Be prepared for a 4-5 hour round-trip hike with moderate elevation changes and potential rain showers.

Cinnamon Bay Beach to Salt Pond Bay - St. John

This coastal trail spans about 2 miles from Cinnamon Bay Beach to Salt Pond Bay, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding beaches. The trail passes through a scenic mangrove forest and provides opportunities to spot marine life.

Practical Example: To hike this trail, begin at Cinnamon Bay Beach and follow the shoreline path. Be aware that the trail can be slippery when wet and may require wading through shallow water.

Cane Bay Trail - St. Croix

The Cane Bay Trail is a moderate 2-mile hike located on the southern coast of St. Croix, offering panoramic views of the island’s rugged coastline. The trail traverses a scenic valley surrounded by towering hills and provides opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Practical Example: To hike the Cane Bay Trail, start at the Cane Bay Beach parking lot and follow the well-marked signs. Be prepared for moderate elevation changes and potential rain showers.

Buck Island Reef National Monument - St. Croix

While not strictly a hiking trail, the Buck Island Reef National Monument offers several short trails that allow visitors to explore this protected marine sanctuary. The monument is home to an array of sea life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.

Practical Example: To visit the Buck Island Reef National Monument, take a ferry from Christiansted Harbor to the island. Explore the trails and snorkel or kayak through the crystal-clear waters to spot marine life.

Rainforest Hike - St. Croix

The Rainforest Hike is a challenging 4-mile trail located in the southeastern part of St. Croix, traversing a lush rainforest with unique geological features. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Practical Example: To hike the Rainforest Trail, start at the La Grange Historic District and follow the well-marked signs. Be prepared for steep elevation changes, potential rain showers, and challenging terrain.

Comparison of St. John vs. St. Croix Trails

Conclusion

When comparing the top 5 hiking trails on St. John vs. St. Croix, it is clear that both islands offer unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. While St. John’s trails tend to be more scenic and well-marked, St. Croix’s trails provide a greater variety of landscapes and geological features. Visitors should consider their skill level, fitness, and interests when choosing between the two islands.

Recommendation: For those seeking a more leisurely hike with breathtaking views, choose the Reef Bay Trail on St. John. For those looking for a more challenging terrain with opportunities to spot local wildlife, opt for the Rainforest Hike on St. Croix.

By understanding the characteristics of each trail and island, visitors can plan an unforgettable hiking experience in the United States Virgin Islands.