Background

Bordeaux Mountain Trail: A Hike to St. John's Highest Peak

Hike to St. John's highest peak on this challenging trail, rewarded with panoramic views and a glimpse into island history.

4.8

The Bordeaux Mountain Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike to the highest point on St. John, Bordeaux Mountain. The 1.2-mile trail ascends through diverse landscapes, from dry forests to shady, moist environments, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's historical bay rum production.

A brief summary to Bordeaux Mountain Trail

  • 87MG+37V, Lameshur Complex, Lameshur Complex, St John, 00830, VI

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes due to the trail's steep, rocky, and potentially slippery conditions.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as parts of the trail are exposed to the sun.
  • Pace yourself during the ascent, as the trail is steep and strenuous.
  • Explore the ruins of the Lameshur Bay Plantation near the trailhead to discover the island's bay rum production history.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Lameshur Bay parking area, the Bordeaux Mountain Trail begins with a steep road leading to a National Park ranger residence. A quarter mile from the beach, the trail forks; the road to the ranger's residence veers right, while the Bordeaux Mountain Trail continues upwards. Follow the rocky path as it ascends along the Great Lameshur Bay Valley.

  • Public Transportation

    From Cruz Bay, take the VITRAN bus towards Coral Bay. Ask the driver for the closest stop to the Lameshur Bay Road. From there, it's approximately a 2-mile walk to the trailhead. Bus fare is around $1 - $3 [official source needed].

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Cruz Bay, a taxi to the Lameshur Bay Trailhead will cost approximately $25 - $35 [official source needed]. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing. Note that ride-share services may be limited on St. John.

Unlock the Best of Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Embark on an invigorating journey to the summit of Bordeaux Mountain, the highest point on St. John, via the Bordeaux Mountain Trail. This 1.2-mile trail presents a challenging climb, gaining approximately 1,000 feet in elevation, making it steep and potentially slippery. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended for navigating the rocky terrain. The trail begins near Lameshur Bay, where you can explore the ruins of the old Lameshur Bay Plantation, including a bay rum distillery and sugar factory, offering a glimpse into the island's past. The trail then ascends along the western edge of the Great Lameshur Bay Valley, transitioning through varying environments. Initially, you'll encounter cactus scrub surroundings, gradually transforming into a drier forest with genip and turpentine trees. As you ascend, the environment becomes more humid, marked by the presence of bay rum trees, remnants of the early 20th-century bay rum oil production. Along the way, keep an eye out for stone seats crafted by trail volunteers, providing resting spots to catch your breath and admire the views. The trail culminates at Bordeaux Mountain Road, offering panoramic vistas of Great Lameshur Bay, Yawzi Point, Ram Head Point, and the British Virgin Islands. For those seeking a longer hike, the trail connects to Centerline Road, offering additional exploration opportunities. Be prepared for a rigorous hike, and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Popular Experiences near Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Popular Hotels near Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Select Currency