Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!

What are the Best Hiking Trails in Jamaica?

Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.

start_here_if_new_image_link

New! See the real Jamaica in VIDEOS!
Click Here and see why over 140,000 fans are raving about my YouTube Channel!

barrett_adventures_hiking_charlestown_maroonsWhat are the Best Hiking Trails in Jamaica?

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Jamaica is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, this tropical island has much more to offer than just sun, sand, and sea. Jamaica is also home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world.

New! How much do you love Jamaica?

Join our growing list of well-thinking Jamaica-loving folks who are demonstrating what a friendly, helpful and fun Jamaican community looks like. Click Here to learn more.


And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!


From cascading waterfalls to lush rainforests, Jamaica’s trails will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the island’s most spectacular landscapes.

7 BEST hiking trails in Jamaica?

1. Blue Mountains Peak Trail

For some of the most stunning views in Jamaica, the Blue Mountains Peak Trail is a must-do. With a peak that sits at 7,402 feet above sea level, hiking this trail means climbing the tallest mountain in Jamaica.

The trail takes hikers through dense rainforest, past coffee plantations, and up into the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The trail is challenging, but the views are worth it.

The trail to get to the peak of the Blue Mountains is around 14 miles long. Most hikers spend a portion of their night at close-by cabins and set out on foot at 1 or 2 am to get to the peak in time to take in the immaculate views of the sunrise.

2. Catherine's Peak Trail

The 4,429-foot Catherine's Peak is reached by a concrete route that is just under a mile long and takes visitors to a breathtaking overlook. Newcastle Base, which is located 45 minutes from Kingston's capital, serves as the trailhead.

Give yourself 40 minutes to ascend to the peak, and wear sturdy hiking boots because the path is prone to becoming slick. This trail is a great option for novice hikers looking for more views and less physical exertion.

3. Mount Zion Trail

You may hike this trail to reach Mount Zion Village, a little rural settlement west of Montego Bay. Before arriving at Mount Zion Village, the path ascends through hills and forests after starting close to the Cinnamon Hill golf course.

When you reach your final destination, which is halfway along the 4.8-mile round-trip track, you'll feel lightyears away from the tourists and throng of Montego Bay.

4. Mayfield Falls Trail

Mayfield Falls Trail is a great choice for a family-friendly hike in Jamaica. The Dolphin Head Mountains in Glenbrook, Westmoreland, about an hour's drive from Negril, are home to this path.

The length and difficulty of the hiking paths here range from 45 minutes to a few hours. The trail takes hikers through a tropical rainforest, and along the way, visitors can cool off in natural pools and under cascading waterfalls.

It is advised to wear water shoes because many of these trails will take you through rivers. The trail is easy to navigate and is perfect for hikers of all ages.

5. Cockpit Country Trail

The Cockpit Country Trail is an adventurous hike taking hikers through a rugged landscape. This trail features limestone formations and hidden caves, making it a great option for hikers looking for a more challenging hike.

The trail offers amazing views of Cockpit Country, and hikers may even spot exotic wildlife.

The Troy-Windsor Trail (20 miles round-trip) and the Quick-Step Trail (22 miles round-trip) are your options. While the Quick-Step Trail leads to the community of Quick-Step, the Troy-Windsor Trail will take you along an ancient British military route from the 1700s.

The Windsor Loop, a three-mile option, is another shorter choice in this region. This track is a little easier to reach and lasts around an hour. The cockpit country trails are not recommended for inexperienced hikers.

6. Cunha Cunha Pass Trail

Cunha Cunha is a tropical jungle where the huge swallowtail butterfly calls home. It was founded by the Maroons in the 18th century as a base of operations against the British.

This eight-kilometer mountain trail connects Hayfield in St. Thomas with Bowden Pen in Portland. A fantastic opportunity to learn about Maroon history from expert local guides is hiking this trail.

7. Watch Hill Trail

This 4.6-mile trail on Jamaica's north coast is close to Port Antonio, Portland, and it is never busy. You may get a close-up view of some of the island's sugar and banana plantations on this easy but beautiful climb that follows a river.

It will take 3–4 hours to complete the Watch Hill trek if you proceed slowly. Your hike will start and conclude at the same location because Watch Hill is an out-and-back route.

Jamaica’s hiking trails offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the island. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, there is a trail for you to explore.

From the stunning mountain views of the Blue Mountains Peak Trail to the family-friendly Mayfield Falls Trail, there is no shortage of adventure to be found in Jamaica.

So, pack your hiking boots and get ready to explore this tropical paradise!
You may also consider booking the tour with us and we will get you there. 

You might like these

Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)


If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more

It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica! 

Return to Jamaican Natural Attractions from What are the Best Hiking Trails in Jamaica
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from What are the Best Hiking trails in Jamaica

References & Sources For What are the Best Hiking Trails in Jamaica

  1. The 6 Best Hiking Trails In Jamaica For Nature Lovers | Sandals. (2022, February 1). Hello Paradise - the Official Sandals Resorts Travel & Lifestyle Blog. https://www.sandals.com/blog/hiking-in-jamaica/
  2. The 7 Best Hiking Trails in Jamaica. (2019, December 17). TripSavvy. https://www.tripsavvy.com/where-to-go-hiking-in-jamaica-4774952
  3. #TravelTuesday: Take social distancing to high altitude, open air. (2001, April 15). Loop News. https://jamaica.loopnews.com/content/six-great-hikes-tackle-jamaica
Back To The Top Of This Page

New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿

JAMAICA_ON_A_BUDGET_EBOOK_COVER_LEAN

You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise!

JAMAICA On A Budget is your passport to experiencing what I call 'The Real Jamaica' on a budget!

I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now!

See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!

my_island_jamaica_channel_tv

My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers.

Jamaica_subscribe_button

Read More ...

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.

New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!


P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for? 
Still need help?

Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!

Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.


copyscape
Back To The Top Of This Page

Like My Site? Please Click Here To Share It With Your Friends

Home   |   JOIN US   |   Site Search   |   Have Your Say   |   Archives   |   Old Archives   |   Contact   |   Disclaimer   |   TIP ME!   |   Link To Us


Do like I did! Share your passion
(about your city, hobby or experience) and make a living from it. Click Here to see how
.

By Wellesley Gayle   |   Copyright © 2007-2024 My-Island-Jamaica.com   |   All rights Reserved.   |   Privacy Policy