National Park · Caribbean · VI
Virgin Islands National Park
Go beyond Virgin Islands National Park's stunning white-sand beaches. Hike to historic plantation sites to learn about a challenging past when sugar and enslaved labor dominated life on the island. Visit the Indigenous Taino's ancient petroglyphs. Snorkel coral reefs to discover hidden marine life. Two-thirds of the island of St. John is national park, making it a unique destination for visitors.
Current alerts
CautionTrail Conditions
Rain may cause trails to be slick and overgrown. Staff and Volunteer Trail Crews clear trails regularly. Visitors should use caution and report trail issues to viis_interpretation@nps.gov
Location
18.3428, -64.7419
Key trails & viewpoints
Tektite Trail
<p><span>The .7 mile trail begins with a moderately strenuous ascent on the Cabritte Horn Point.</span></p>
The trailhead can be found to the right of Lameshur Road at the first switchback. The .7 mile trail begins with a moderately strenuous ascent on the Cabritte Horn Point. Hike through the desert-like terrain to reach scenic views atop coastal cliffs.
Johnny Horn Trail
Plan on two to four hours for this hike; more if connecting with other trails in the area.
This strenuous trail leads to the remains of some beautiful stone historic sites and incredible views.
L'Esperance Trail
2 - 4 hours
L'Esperance Trail follows a historic Danish road passing ruins of some of the earliest plantations established on St. John. View the island's only baobab, a sacred tree species that was brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. From trailhead to the beach is about 2.6 miles one way. Much of the trail faces west and lacks tree shade so be sure to wear sun protection and a hat.
Francis Bay Trail
<p>The hike around Francis Bay Salt pond can range anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes or more. It all depends on how long you stop to listen to the birds or smell the flowers. <br /> <span style="font-size: 11pt;"><strong>Distances</strong></span><br /> <span style="font-size: 11pt;">From the Factory parking area to the entrance of the accessible ramp is .5 miles. </span></p>
Francis Bay Trail starts at the Francis Bay Sugar Factory. It continues past the Mary's Point Estate house and around a salt pond. The dry tropical forest and salt pond provide an excellent opportunity to view birds. The lower portion of the trail is an accessible boardwalk that continues through the mangroves to the two viewing platforms.
Cinnamon Bay Trails
Duration depends on the amount of time one wants to read the waysides and ponder the way things were during the plantation era.
Meander through the ruins of the historic Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation. Smell the scent of the leaves from the bay rum trees, which were once used to make the famous St John Bay Rum Cologne. The boardwalk and nature loop are located across the road from the entrance to the Cinnamon Bay Campground. The nature loop is an easy 0.5 mile hike. For a more adventurous hike, try the strenuous 1 mile Cinnamon Bay Trail which begins east of the ruins. Hike uphill through a shaded for
Caneel Hill Trail
Hiking trails in the park provide an excellent way to experience the beauty of the landscape and the rich natural and cultural history of the park/
Yawzi Point Trail
<p>Only .3 miles this trail follows the crest of Yawzi point. </p>
Located between Great Lameshur Bay and Little Lameshur Bay, this .3 mile trail is a good choice if looking for an easy hike. Stone ruins of homes from the Danish colonial period can be found alongside the trail. Small rocky beaches can be accessed by side trails for a quiet snorkel entry spot.
Salt Pond Bay and Ram Head Trails
<p>It is a 5-20 minute trip to the beach from the parking area, depending on how many beach toys you are bringing. </p> <p>It is another 30-50 minutes from the beach to Ram Head. It just depends on how long you stop to enjoy the views. </p>
Salt Pond is perfect for someone looking for a pleasant stroll to a beautiful beach. Just a quarter mile hike from the parking area to beach, has only a slight grade.
Hours & fees
Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center
Virgin Islands National Park is always open! The Visitor Center and store are open from 8:15 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 8:15 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Fridays. It is closed on weekends, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
| Monday | 8:15AM - 4:00PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8:15AM - 4:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:15AM - 4:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:15AM - 4:00PM |
| Friday | 8:15AM - 1:30PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
No entrance fee is charged at this park.
Activities
- Arts and Culture
- Craft Demonstrations
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Boating
- Motorized Boating
- Sailing
- Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Saltwater Fishing
- Food
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Hiking
- Backcountry Hiking
- Front-Country Hiking
- Paddling
- Kayaking
- Stand Up Paddleboarding
- SCUBA Diving
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Saltwater Swimming
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store