4 Best Day Hikes in Virgin Islands National Park

Last updated on July 31st, 2022

Overview

Hiking in Paradise! Virgin Islands National Park is located on the island of St. John, one of the 3 U.S. Virgin Islands. To get to the park you need to take a short 20 minute ferry ride from St. Thomas directly west of St. John. The park is home to a tropical rainforest and has many secluded beaches that can be accessed from the hiking trails below. Some of the hikes in Virgin Islands National Park can be difficult as the island is mountainous so bring some sturdy shoes in addition to your flip flops and beachwear. My wife and I were lucky enough to visit this beautiful national park on our honeymoon and cannot wait to go back some day! Official Website.

State	U.S. Virgin Islands
Nearest Metro Area	Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Area Size	14,737 acres
Established	August 2, 1956
Hiking Trails	18 miles

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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Hikes in Virgin Islands National Park

1. Reef Bay Trail

Starting from the middle of the island, hikers will travel downhill through a heavily forested area before reaching a secluded beach on the south side of St. John. Petroglyphs Trail makes for a nice bonus to view some ancient markings. The hike back up is quite a challenge, so be ready! The trailhead is located on Route 10 and is somewhat hard to find parking on the side of the small road.

4.8 miles – Out and back
900′ gain
Moderate

2. Lind Point Trail

Paradise hiking at its finest! This trail is not so much about the journey as it is about the destination. With ocean vistas along the way, you have the option of going to Salomon Beach or Honeymoon Beach. These spots are super secluded and make for a great place to spend the day. Flip flops are all that is needed to get here. The trailhead is just north of the Virgin Islands National Park Headquarters.

1.8 miles – Loop
200′ gain
Easy

3. Ram Head Trail

Exposed trail that gets hot during the day. After passing Salt Pond Bay, the trail ascends to Ram Head – a 200′ high rocky peninsula. From here you will enjoy some of the best panoramic views on the entire island. The trailhead is located off of VI-107 near the very south part of St. John.

2.4 miles – Out and back
250′ gain
Moderate

4. Leinster Bay Trail

Remember to bring your snorkeling gear for this hike as you can follow the trail to Waterlemon Bay and swim around the Cay. Before you get there, be sure to stop by the Annaberg Plantation ruins. These ruins are what is left from an 18th century sugar plantation that produced molasses and rum. The trailhead shares the same parking lot as that for Annaberg Plantation.