Ultimate Guide to the Best Hiking Trails in St. Lucia

A visit to the beautiful island of St. Lucia would not be complete without taking in some of the breathtaking views on any one of the best hikes in St. Lucia we have compiled. This volcanic island offers beautiful trails, beautiful beaches, botanic gardens, and much more! 

St. Lucia is a small island country in the eastern Caribbean just northeast of the island of Saint Vincent, northwest of Barbados and south of Martinique. St. Lucia is only 238 square miles in area but as a volcanic island, it is very mountainous. Mount Gimie, the highest point on island, sits at 3,120′. The Pitons, Petit Piton and Gros Piton, are two mountainous volcanic plugs that form the island’s most famous landmark. 

Saint Lucia is also home to the world’s only drive-in volcano, the Sulphur Springs. There are a number of small islands off the coast, the largest of which are the Maria Islands, located in the south-east of the island.

As one would imagine, tourism is the largest contributor to the economy and well over 1 million visitors come to the beautiful island of St. Lucia each year.

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hiking Trails in St. Lucia

Gros Piton Trail

Hiking up the Gros Piton Nature Trail in Saint Lucia is an unforgettable adventure that blends natural beauty with a rewarding challenge. The trail, nestled in the lush landscape of the island’s southwest coast, offers a moderate to strenuous climb that can take anywhere from 2-4 hours to ascend, depending on your pace and skill level. As you begin, the path meanders through a tropical forest filled with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, providing a serene start to your journey. The trail gradually becomes steeper, with rocky terrain demanding focus and determination, but each step brings you closer to the summit and the breathtaking views that await.

Midway through the hike, the landscape opens up, offering glimpses of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding lush greenery. These views provide a welcome distraction as the trail grows steeper and more challenging. As you approach the top of Gros Piton, the sense of accomplishment builds, and when you finally reach the top, the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular. From the summit, you can see the island’s rolling hills, the sparkling sea, and even the distant outline of the neighboring island, Saint Vincent. The descent, though easier on the lungs, requires careful footing, but the memories of the climb and the stunning vistas make every step worth it.

The Gros Piton hike is not just a physical challenge but also a journey through the heart of Saint Lucia’s natural beauty, making it a must-do for any adventurer visiting the island.

Petit Piton Trail

Hiking the Petit Piton Trail is an exhilarating adventure reserved for experienced hikers seeking a serious challenge. Rising steeply from the sea level to over 2,400 feet, this trail is more of a climb than a hike, with rugged terrain that requires hands-on scrambling and a strong sense of adventure. The trail is shorter but significantly steeper than its sister peak, Gros Piton, offering breathtaking, close-up views of the island’s lush landscape and the Caribbean Sea as you ascend. The summit, though challenging to reach, rewards hikers with awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, including the iconic Gros Piton and the picturesque town of Soufrière below. The Petit Piton Trails offer an intense, heart-pounding experience for those ready to conquer one of Saint Lucia’s most iconic peaks.

Tet Paul Nature Trail

The Tet Paul Nature Trail offers one of Saint Lucia’s most accessible and rewarding hikes, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty without the intensity of a mountain climb. This gentle trail, nestled in the heart of the lush countryside near Soufrière, takes about 45 minutes to complete. Along the way, you’ll traverse through picturesque landscapes, including organic farms, exotic fruit trees, and vibrant tropical flowers. The highlight of the hike is the “Stairway to Heaven,” a short, steep climb that rewards you with panoramic views of the iconic Pitons, the Caribbean Sea, and even Martinique on a clear day. The Tet Paul Nature Trail is a perfect blend of culture, nature, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit for hikers of all levels.

Mount Gimie

Hiking Mount Gimie, the highest peak in Saint Lucia, is a challenging and exhilarating adventure for experienced hikers. Standing at 3,117 feet, this trail takes you deep into the island’s dense rainforest, offering a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience. The hike can take up to six hours round trip, with steep ascents, muddy paths, and dense foliage that demand physical stamina and careful navigation. Along the way, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and lush tropical vegetation, all set against the backdrop of the island’s rugged interior. The summit rewards your efforts with breathtaking, 360-degree views of the entire island, including the majestic Pitons, the Caribbean Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean. Mount Gimie is the ultimate hike for those seeking to experience Saint Lucia’s wild and untamed natural beauty.

Vieux Fort

The Vieux Fort hike in Saint Lucia offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique experience for hikers. Located at the island’s southern tip, this trail leads you up to the iconic Vieux Fort Lighthouse, providing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Maria Islands, and the distant peaks of the Pitons. The hike is relatively easy, with a well-marked path that winds through coastal landscapes, offering glimpses of the island’s rugged shoreline and the rich marine life in the surrounding waters. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of historical military fortifications, adding a fascinating layer of history to your adventure. The Vieux Fort hike is a must-do for those looking to explore Saint Lucia’s southern coast and enjoy some of the island’s most breathtaking vistas.

Union Nature Trail

The Union Nature Trail offers a peaceful and educational hiking experience, ideal for nature lovers and families. Located within the Union Orchid Garden and Nature Reserve near Castries, this easy trail takes you through a tranquil forest filled with native beautiful flora and fauna. As you stroll along the well-maintained path, you’ll encounter towering mahogany trees, vibrant orchids, and a variety of bird species, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. Informative signs along the trail provide insights into the island’s unique ecosystem, and there’s even a small zoo with indigenous animals like agoutis and iguanas. The Union Nature Trail is a gentle, yet enriching hike that showcases Saint Lucia’s diverse natural heritage.

Edmund Forest Reserve

Hiking in the Edmund Forest Reserve is a journey into the heart of Saint Lucia’s untouched wilderness, offering a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Located near the island’s interior, this reserve is home to some of the island’s most pristine rainforest, with towering trees, lush ferns, and a rich variety of wildlife. The trails here are moderately challenging, winding through dense vegetation and alongside clear streams, with the occasional sighting of the rare Saint Lucia parrot. One of the key features of the hike is the stunning view of Mount Gimie, the island’s highest peak, framed by the lush forest. Edmund Forest Reserve is perfect for those seeking a quiet, immersive experience in Saint Lucia’s natural beauty, far from the more touristy spots.

Enbas Saut Falls Trail

The Enbas Saut Falls Trail in Saint Lucia is a hidden gem for hikers, offering a mix of adventure and natural splendor. Located within the dense rainforest of the island’s central region, this moderately challenging trail takes you on a two-hour journey through lush greenery and down into a steep valley. The highlight of the hike is the pair of cascading waterfalls, where you can cool off in the refreshing pools at the base. The trail is rich with biodiversity, from vibrant tropical plants to the occasional sighting of the Saint Lucia parrot. The Enbas Saut Falls Trail is perfect for those seeking a secluded and invigorating hike, complete with the reward of a natural waterfall shower.

Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island National Park in Saint Lucia offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the island’s most unique hiking destinations. The park features several easy-to-moderate trails that lead you through lush vegetation, past historical ruins, including military fortifications from the 18th century, and up to two scenic summits. The higher of the two peaks provides stunning views of Rodney Bay, the Caribbean Sea, and on clear days, the distant island of Martinique. Along the way, you can explore the remnants of Fort Rodney, a key site in the island’s colonial history. Pigeon Island’s trails are perfect for those looking to combine a bit of hiking with a rich cultural experience, all within a picturesque setting.

Piton Flore Trail

The Piton Flore Trail in Saint Lucia is a hidden treasure for hikers seeking a blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Located in the island’s lush interior, this moderate trail winds through dense rainforest, offering an immersive experience in one of Saint Lucia’s most verdant landscapes. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant tropical plants, towering trees, and the melodious calls of exotic birds. The trail leads to the summit of Piton Flore, a lesser-known peak that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and distant mountains. The hike also offers opportunities to spot unique wildlife, including the endemic Saint Lucia parrot. The Piton Flore Trail is perfect for those looking to explore the island’s interior in a peaceful, secluded setting.

St. Vincent

Getting to and exploring Saint Vincent from Saint Lucia is a fantastic extension of your Caribbean adventure. The journey typically involves a short flight or ferry ride across the sparkling Caribbean Sea, offering stunning views of both islands. Upon arrival, you’ll find Saint Vincent’s landscapes to be just as captivating, with lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and pristine beaches. One of the must-do hikes is up La Soufrière, an active volcano that rewards climbers with panoramic views and a peek into its dramatic crater. Beyond the hikes, Saint Vincent offers vibrant towns like Kingstown, rich in colonial history and colorful markets. Whether you’re exploring secluded waterfalls, snorkeling in clear waters, or simply soaking in the island’s relaxed atmosphere, Saint Vincent provides a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Try to plan for a full day to explore all of the best things that the island has to offer.