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Cinnamon Bay Trail: A Journey Through History and Nature

Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.

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Explore the Cinnamon Bay Trail in St. John, USVI, a scenic path winding through the ruins of a historic sugar plantation and lush tropical forests. This moderately challenging trail offers a glimpse into the island's past and stunning views of the surrounding coastline, making it a favorite for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Cinnamon Bay Trail

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and slippery, especially on steeper sections.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially for the evening hours, to protect against mosquitoes and other biting insects.
  • Consider visiting during the cooler months (December to July) for a more comfortable hiking experience.
  • Pack water and snacks, as there are no concessions on the trail itself.
  • Combine your hike with a visit to Cinnamon Bay Beach for swimming and relaxation.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, the main hub on St. John, taxis (often safari buses) are readily available. A taxi ride to Cinnamon Bay costs approximately $7-8 per person. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes along North Shore Road. Taxis will drop you off near the entrance to Cinnamon Bay Beach, where the trailheads are located across the road.

  • Public Transport

    The 108 and 109 bus lines stop near Cinnamon Bay Trail. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the trail entrance. Check the current schedule and routes for Saint John to plan your trip.

  • Walking

    If you are already at Cinnamon Bay Beach, the trailheads for both the Cinnamon Bay Loop Trail and the Cinnamon Bay Trail are located across North Shore Road from the main parking lot and beach entrance. The ruins are visible from the road.

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Discover more about Cinnamon Bay Trail

The Cinnamon Bay Trail on St. John, in the US Virgin Islands National Park, offers hikers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical exploration. The trail meanders through the remains of the Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation, established by the Danes in 1717, one of the earliest on St. John. As you walk, you can still smell the spicy scent of bay rum trees, once used to make the famous St. John Bay Rum cologne. There are actually two trails at Cinnamon Bay: the Cinnamon Bay Trail and the Cinnamon Bay Loop Trail. The Cinnamon Bay Loop is a 0.5-mile, relatively flat and shady walk, with informative signs detailing the history, culture, and environment of the area, and is wheelchair accessible. The more adventurous 1.2-mile Cinnamon Bay Trail connects Cinnamon Bay with Centerline Road, ascending steeply and gaining about 700 feet in elevation. A 0.38-mile spur trail off the Cinnamon Bay Trail leads to the America Hill ruins. Along the trails, discover the remnants of a sugar factory, including the horse mill where sugarcane juice was extracted, and the boiling house where syrup was condensed. The trail also passes the crypts of a Danish family and the ruins of the America Hill Great House, offering picturesque views of Maho Bay, Francis Bay, and the British Virgin Islands. The well-managed trails sometimes follow a ridgeline, so caution is advised. Today, the remnants of the old rum factory are still prominent, and when you reach the top of your hike, you'll be able to see the ruins and enjoy the stunning views.

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