The Reef Bay Trail begins about 5 miles outside
of Cruz Bay on Centerline Road (Rt.10). This National Park trail
is nearly 3 miles in length. It begins 900 feet above sea level
and travels down a tropical forest valley to the sea. Check for
current schedules of ranger-guided hikes at the National Park Visitor
Center. This informative trip also includes a boat ride back to
Cruz Bay for those who do not wish to hike back up to the trailhead. If you
do decide to hike down and back, allow a good 6 hours for the venture
(which includes some beach time too). Take a walk through time as you descend
upon this moderate trail and learn about the flora, fauna and history
of St. John. There are several signs describing some of the trees
and structures that you will encounter. From the Taino Indian petroglyphs
to the Danish plantation ruins, you can touch and experience part of
the island's past which makes our Caribbean history come alive. As you
hike towards the ruins, a side trail leads to the petroglyphs and the
Reef Bay waterfall which flows only after sufficient rainfall. This
is a beautiful location to rest and have a picnic. Look for crayfish
and fish in the pools and let the hummingbirds and dragonflies skirting
about entertain you! |
![]() The Kapok tree, also known as the "Elephant Foot" tree is huge... |
![]() ...with large wall-like roots and is one of the first sites along the path. |
![]() The Kapok tree from a distance. |
![]() A very nice long trail under the trees, though at times steep and rocky. |
![]() The observant will see many huge termite nests all around the island and the termites trails (tunnels really) are seen going to and from the nest. They move through the tunnels in an effort to avoid their predators. |
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![]() more ruins along the way |
Somewhere along the path (there is a sign) you can take a side route to see the Petroglyphs which is well worth the short jaunt. Then come back to the main path, and it's only a (relatively) short distance to the main Reef Bay Sugar Plantation ruins down right near the beach. |
![]() Fascinating history with many signs so you can learn about how the plantation worked and what they made here... |
![]() ...sugar, molasses, and rum. |
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![]() Finally we get to the beach for a cool swim!!! |