America Hill ruins with a panoramic view of Maho Bay, Francis Bay, and Mary's Point.
Photo courtesy of Parnicza/NPS.
The Caribbean Sea pictured from Ram Head Trail in Virgin Islands National Park.
NPS Photo.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities on St. John. Virgin Islands National Park provides a wide variety of hiking experiences and more than 20 trails to choose from. We offer an accessible boardwalks that meander through historic ruins or take you to a bird viewing deck on one of our lovely salt ponds. For the adventurous, you can put on your hiking shoes and take the Reef Bay Trail down to the petroglyphs, and then down to the old Sugar Mill which is near a lovely beach. Check out Plants to Avoid before you head out. Stop by the Visitor Center store, operated by the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, to pick up a copy of the Hikers Guide to Virgin Islands National Park for information on all our trials.
Hike safely!
Plan your hike with a map.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, ½ gal of water for each four hours of hiking is minimum recommendation.
When walking on the road please walk facing traffic when possible.
Notify friends where you are going and when you will return.
Many trails have limited (or no) cell phone access!
Plan for ample time to allow for uphill terrain, exploring, swimming and enjoying the scenic rests.
Stay on the trails. Do not trespass on private property.
Many trailheads have limited parking so plan to carpool or takie a taxi.
Wear cool, loose clothing and comfortable sturdy walking or hiking shoes.
Use Insect repellent, especially during rainy seasons.
Sunscreen is always recommended. Use Reef Safe sunscreens to protect our coral reefs
Trail Safety
Avoid hiking or swimming alone.
Pace yourself to prevent fatigue and watch your footing on wet rocks.
DO NOT eat unknown fruits, nuts or berries. Some are poisonous.
Avoid handling or picking vegetation. Some cause severe rashes or may have stinging insects,
Do not climb on the fragile, historic structures, and leave all artifacts in place.
Avoid hiking on our narrow roads whenever possible, and use extreme caution in cases where walking the roads is unavoidable.
Do not leave valuables unattended at any time.
"Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints"
