Gorda Peak National Park

Gorda Peak National Park, rising to 1,370 feet (414 meters), is the highest point on Virgin Gorda and a protected area encompassing 254 acres. Donated by Laurance Rockefeller in 1974, the park is one of the last remaining examples of Caribbean dry forest, making it a conservation priority. The park is located on the northwestern ridge of Virgin Gorda, between North Sound and Soldier Bay. The trails to the summit offer varying levels of difficulty. The longer trail, starting from the lower entrance, is a more gradual climb, taking about 45-50 minutes to reach the top. The shorter trail is steeper and more direct, ascending in approximately 25 minutes. The trails converge near the summit. Though the fire tower that once stood at the peak collapsed due to Hurricane Irma, hikers can still climb a large boulder to gain a panoramic view. From this vantage point, you can see Anegada, Tortola, and St. John on a clear day. The park is home to diverse plant life, with vegetation changing with elevation, from dry scrub forest to moister forests. It also hosts regionally restricted and endangered plant species. Keep an eye out for the Virgin Gorda dwarf sphaero, one of the world's smallest lizards, measuring about the size of a dime. Gorda Peak offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The trails provide a connection to the island's past and environment, making it a memorable experience.