Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
with colorful fish, and diverse forest areas ranging from
moist sub-tropical woods to semi-arid cactus scrublands.
Over 800 species of trees, shrubs, flowers and plants and
more than 30 species of tropical birds call the park home.
Along its 20 miles of trails are historical remains from the
Amerindian civilization, Danish plantation era and of Afri-
can slavery days.
Activities include bird-watching, boating, camping, fishing,
kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling. But the park is best
known for its well-organized program of hikes, tours, dem-
onstrations and cultural activities. Most require pre-regis-
tration, which can be made at the Park office in Cruz Bay or
at the lifeguard station in Cinnamon Bay. Most of the pro-
grams are offered several times weekly. The hikes and tours
change on a seasonal basis. The exact hikes discussed here
may not be available when you visit, but rest assured the
trips offered will be exceptional. Some require a fee.
The Visitor's Center (along the waterfront between Cruz
Bay and Mongoose Junction) is open daily (except Christ-
mas Day) from 8 am-4 pm.
(340) 776-6201.
If you prefer to hike on your own, the Park Service will sup-
ply you with helpful literature and maps. There are 24
marked hiking trails. Some are well maintained while oth-
ers are brushy and overgrown. Many are old plantation
roads that explore both shores of the island. The Park's pam-
phlet,
Trail Guide for Safe Hiking
, available free of charge at
the Park Office, details them all for you. Use it and other
free literature to plan your activities. All include specific
safety information. Don't just go off on your own - it's a big
forest out there.
Recommended Hikes
The most popular hike guided by Park Rangers is
the
Reef Bay Trail
. The downhill trail is part of
an old Danish road built in the mid-18th century.
At the start the vegetation is sub-tropical with an
abundance of flowering shrubs and mango, lime
