11 Best Trails for Hiking in St John USVI (2024 Guide)
Searching for the best hiking trails in St John USVI?
As an avid hiker and visitor of the US Virgin Islands, I’ve traversed the trails of St. John from coast to coast, summit to shoreline.
I’ve been lucky enough to explore the paths from Cruz Bay to the most famous on the island – the Reef Bay Trail.
In this post, I’ll share with you my insights to help guide you in choosing the best hikes in St. John, for your own adventure.
Each has its unique charm and challenges, and whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, there’s a trail here that’s perfect for you. Let’s lace up and get started!
Best Hiking Trails in St John USVI
St John is a popular tourist destination, but still secluded enough to feel like you’re on your own little island. It’s also home to Virgin Islands National Park, so much of the land is untouched and protected.
From moderate hikes to strenuous climbs, there’s something for everyone on this list. Let’s take a look at 11 of my favorite hikes St John USVI has to offer.
1. Reef Bay Trail (Waterfall Hike!)
The Reef Bay Trail, also called the St. John Waterfall Hike, is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and history explorers. As with many Caribbean hiking trails, you’ll notice that lots of trails on this list come with a historical pick-me-up! With an ideal length of 4.4 miles, the trail offers a rewarding experience coupled with a rich cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty.
Nicknamed Petroglyph Trail, it is famed for the Petroglyphs of Reef Bay, ancient rock carvings left behind by the Taino people. As you traverse the trail, you’ll pass through green forests, a 40-foot waterfall and even take a detour to one of St John’s famous beaches if you fancy a swim.
Remember to carry sunscreen, water, and appropriate hiking shoes, as the trail alternates between shaded and exposed sections.
You’ll want to start early to avoid the midday heat and be prepared for an uphill return trip. I’ve stayed too late in the day before, which made for an incredibly hot and uncomfortable walk back. Always check weather conditions, particularly in the rainy season.
All in all, the Reef Bay Trail is an essential part of any St. John visit. With its mix of natural splendor, historical context, and a tranquil beach endpoint, it’s no wonder this trail is beloved.
2. Rams Head Trail
The Rams Head Trail in St John is a must-see on my admittedly long list of things to do in St John. This 2-mile round trip hike will challenge you moderately but reward you with unbeatable panoramic views of the coastline and the sparkling Caribbean Sea.
Remember to start your hike early to avoid the midday sun, as the trail offers little shade – this is a reminder you should keep for any Caribbean hike.
Good walking shoes with sturdy soles are recommended as the trail is uneven at times.
What makes the Rams Head Hike a memorable experience is surely the magnificent view from the top, which is especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset. Most visitors I meet claim this to be their favorite hike in St John.
Though the path involves some uphill sections, it’s well-maintained and quite easy to follow. So, if you’re up for an exhilarating workout amidst the natural beauty of St. John, this trail is a fantastic choice.
3. Cinnamon Bay Hiking Trail
This moderate 1.8-mile hike nestled within aromatic bay rum trees and historic sugar mill ruins provides a unique blend of nature and history in St John. The trail starts from Cinnamon Bay Campground, making it quite easy to access.
One of the highlights is the Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation ruins, a testament to the island’s rich past. Plus, the trail’s abundant shades provide relief from the sun. It’s perfect on a hot hot day when you don’t want to be exposed to the heat and sun all day.
Reward your efforts post-hike with a relaxing day at the Cinnamon Bay Beach. Swim, sunbathe, or snorkel in its pristine waters.
The Cinnamon Bay Hiking Trail is more than a hike; it’s an exploration of St. John’s natural beauty and deep historic roots. This is great for beginner and experienced hikers.
4. Caneel Hill Trail
The Caneel Hill Trail in St. John, USVI is a must-experience for hiking enthusiasts. This moderate trail will take you on a 2.4-mile journey through both dry and moist forest landscapes.
It begins in Cruz Bay and takes you 720 feet up to a vista point that offers breathtaking views of the bay. But don’t stop there!
You can also continue walking up Margaret Hill for unbeatable panoramic views. The trailhead is conveniently situated in Cruz Bay – head past Northshore Road. You can also cross into part of the Caneel Hill Trails from the Lind Point Trail.
Caneel Hill Trail is a rewarding choice if you’re looking to combine physical activity with stunning island scenery.
5. Lind Point Trail to Honeymoon or Salomon Bay
Hiking on St John can be magic when exploring the Lind Point Trail, your gateway to two of the island’s most serene and stunning beaches: Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Beach. Both of these offer perfect beaches and awesome snorkeling.
Lind Point Trail starts at the Visitor’s Center and ends at Salomon Bay Beach. The Visitors Center is conveniently located in Cruz Bay, making it an easy trip to and from town.
Unlike the usual bustling beach spots, these are often not crowded, giving you the chance to enjoy an undisturbed and relaxed experience.
As someone who knows St. John well, I assure you that these beaches with their clear waters and soft sand are nothing short of spectacular. So, if you are planning a trip to St. John, make sure to put the Lind Point Trail on your itinerary. You won’t regret the slice of paradise you’ll find waiting on the other side.
6. Salt Pond Bay/Drunk Bay
Discover a rewarding hiking experience on the Salt Pond Bay/Drunk Bay Trail, a simple trek located in stunning St. John. Kick-off your adventure at Salt Pond Bay and wander through the mangrove forest before arriving at the impeccable Salt Pond Beach.
This beach is a swimmer's paradise perfect for spotting marine life for snorkelers. Next, venture on to Drunk Bay, a site recognized for its unusual rock structures and visitor-made sculptures. However, Drunk Bay isn't always ideal for swimming so be careful and use your best judgement around the water.
This trail connects to the Ram Head Trail, which you can hop right on to if you want a longer hike. You'll pass Blue Cobblestone Beach along the way, offering another break or swim during your trek.
Unsurprisingly, Cobblestone Beach is rocky, so you'll want water shoes if you plan to make that stop.
7. Francis Bay Trail
The Francis Bay Trail offers a gentle hike that even beginners can tackle with ease.
Set in the heart of St. John, USVI, this trail covering approximately 0.7 miles gives visitors a chance to soak in the serenity of a mangrove forest, explore historic ruins of the Francis Sugar Factory, and observe diverse bird species. Keep an eye out for the Bananaquit - the official bird of the Virgin Islands!
The trail concludes at a boardwalk offering fantastic views of a salt pond, nestled between Francis Bay Beach and St. Mary's Creek Beach.
It's fitting for families as it combines leisure with learning, offering insights into both nature and history.
Don't forget to unwind at Francis Bay Beach after the hike - its white sand and crystal-clear waters are a sight to cherish. Similar to many beaches in St John, this beach can offer some exciting snorkeling.
You can walk a little further from Francis Bay Beach and find Little Maho Beach, a more popular beach on the island.
If you're driving, this is the best part of the island for beach hopping. Take your hike on the Francis Bay Trail, head back to the car, and hit Maho Bay Beach, Cinnamon Bay Beach, Peter Bay Beach, and Trunk Bay all within a short drive of one another!
All things considered, the Francis Bay Trail is a comfortably paced journey through St. John's stunning landscapes.
8. Lameshur Bay Trail
On to one of my favorite St John hikes - The Lameshur Bay Trail! This trail offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and a bit of exercise. It winds its way through various landscapes, offering some great views along the way.
Halfway through, it intersects with the Reef Bay Trail, providing an option for an extended adventure if you’re up for it. One of the trail's major highlights is the famous Petroglyphs, intriguing ancient rock carvings from the Taino Tribe that add a touch of historical significance to the hike.
9. Denis Bay Trail
The Denis Bay Trail, which is part of the Peace Hill Trail, is a must-visit attraction in St. John, USVI. This path guides you to historic ruins where you can relish a slice of the island's bygone era.
As you move ahead, the trail presents you with the serene Denis Bay, Gibney Beach, and Oppenheimer Beach. These beaches are a haven, known for their seclusion, away from the Cruz Bay noise.
This offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island and its history simultaneously. This moderate hike offers splendid views and an escape from the typical tourist-ridden areas.
So, if a serene and secluded beach experience is what you're after, Denis Bay and the surrounding beaches should definitely be on your itinerary.
10. Johnny Horn Trail
The Johnny Horn Trail, located in Leinster Bay on the picturesque St. John Island of the US Virgin Islands, offers a trip to one of the most beautiful overlooks on the island - Watermelon Cay!
This moderate 3.1 miles long hike, approximately a 2-hour journey, takes you from Watermelon Bay to a beautiful beach, where a refreshing dip awaits before you return.
You'll be privy to stunning views of the bay and the shimmering, sailboat-dotted waters along the trail.
Adding to the allure is the historic ruins, shrouded in their own mystery and charm, that you'll encounter along the way.
11. L'Esperance Trail
The last of my favorite St John hiking trails is the L'Esperance Trail, nestled in the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John island. This is a moderate 5.8-mile hike best started bright and early in the morning!
Accessible via the Reef Bay Trail in the Virgin Islands National Park, you'll pass some ruins and plenty of wildlife. The L'Esperance Trail delivers a truly rewarding hiking experience.
How to Prepare for St John Trails: Hiking Safety
WATER 💧
Bring PLENTY of water, especially if you'll be hiking St John after those cool morning hours. Caribbean hikers know it best: the sun can be extremely hot and it's so important to stay HYDRATED when you're walking through these trails.
Reef Safe Sunscreen ☀️
Sunscreen is a necessity when you're in the islands. And, being exposed to the hot sun while you're on the hiking trails in St John makes it even more important.
However, the US Virgin Islands banned toxic sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and wildlife habitats in these beautiful lands. A few toxic ingredients to make sure you don't have in your sunscreen:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
Purchase sunscreen before arriving to the island, as it can be very expensive!
Non Perishable Food 🍎
Some of the hikes in St John can be long and strenuous. To ensure you're properly energized to make it through, bring some nonperishable, healthy foods like jerky, protein bars, or dried fruit, to give you a little boost when you get tired!
Waterproof Gear 🌧️
You know how islands can be! Sometimes, a rainstorm or afternoon shower can hit out of no where! Make sure you have good shoes in case the trails get muddy, a waterproof bag for your valuables, and a rain jacket to protect yourself!
Make sure to check the weather before heading out on these hikes, especially if you're visiting during the rainy season!
Dogs are allowed on the trails in Virgin Islands National Park on a leash no longer than 6-feet long.
Hiking in Virgin Islands National Park
Virgin Islands National Park is located on the island of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands.
The park was established in 1956 and covers about two-thirds of the island. There are a variety of hiking trails available, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. It's one of the more diverse hiking islands in the Caribbean.
Dogs are welcome on most trails in the park, as long as they are on a leash that is no longer than 6-feet! So, grab your furry friends and hit the trails!
🌊 Make sure to bring PLENTY of water for your dogs, as St John can get HOT!
The park also has a number of beaches, including the popular Honeymoon Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Caribbean hiking is a great way to explore the islands and see some of their stunning scenery. The best hikes in the Virgin Islands National Park offer something for everyone, so whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, you'll be able to find a trail that's right for you.
Not sure whether to stay in St Thomas or St John? ➡️
St John Hiking Map
Best Time to Go Hiking in St John USVI
The best time to go hiking in St John USVI (and the safest!) is early in the mornings of December through May.
Hurricane season runs from June to November, so you may hit more frequent rain showers throughout the islands during those months.
Early mornings are not only the safest time to go hiking in St John, but also can end up being the prettiest! If you catch the sunset from an overlook early in the morning, you're sure to start off an incredible day!
Where to Stay in St John
There are two MAIN areas to stay in St John, Cruz Bay and Coral Bay.
Cruz Bay is the ferry port and livelier downtown area. This is where you'll arrive if you're coming from St Thomas. It is filled with restaurants, resorts, activities, and nearby beaches for all occasions, whether you're looking to go with the family or for a honeymoon.
Coral Bay is the quiet, east side of town. It's harder to get taxis in Coral Bay, so you'll want to rent a car if you plan to stay there.
🏨 Gallows Point Resort in Cruz Bay
🏨 Westin St John in Cruz Bay
🏨 Seagrape Estate Villa in Coral Bay
How to Get Around St John
If you want to explore all of these St John hiking trails, renting a car is the best option. You won't regret prioritizing having your freedom to travel around St John's hidden gems on your own time. But first, you'll want to learn how to get to St John from St Thomas!
Cruz Bay is filled with taxi pickups around hotels and popular beaches, but Coral Bay and Virgin Islands National Park is more off-the-beaten-path. There's also no gas station in Coral Bay, so fill up before you go!
⭐Get around St John by booking your rental car through Expedia early! ➡️
Pro Tip: It's a small island with minimal rentals, so reserve your car ASAP!
Hiking in St John USVI Summary
To sum it up, hiking in St. John, USVI provides an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife.
The trails, each presenting its unique charm and challenge, lend themselves to an explorative and invigorating experience for hikers of all levels.
Whether it's the breath-taking ocean views, the intriguing historical ruins, or the serene seclusion away from the typical tourist hubs, there is something for every hiker in St. John.
Simply put, the island invites one and all to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and delight. It's clear to see why St John is, without a doubt, worth visiting.
