Background

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

Hike St. John's highest peak on this challenging trail, rewarded with panoramic views and diverse island ecosystems.

4.8

The Bordeaux Mountain Trail on St. John offers a challenging hike to the island's highest point, rewarding adventurers with stunning panoramic views and a unique ecological experience. The trail leads through varying landscapes, from dry cactus scrub to a lush, shady forest, and past historical remnants of the island's plantation era.

A brief summary to Bordeaux Mountain Trail

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

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the steep and rocky terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as parts of the trail are exposed to the sun.
  • Pace yourself and take breaks to enjoy the views and changing scenery.
  • Consider hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) east. After approximately 7 miles, turn right onto Bordeaux Mountain Road. Follow this narrow, winding road to the trailhead. Parking is limited, so arrive early. There are no fees to access the trail.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Cruz Bay. Request a ride to the Bordeaux Mountain Trailhead on Bordeaux Mountain Road. The taxi fare will be approximately $20-$30, depending on the starting location and number of passengers. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation to the Bordeaux Mountain Trailhead is limited, you can take a VITRAN bus from Cruz Bay towards Coral Bay. Get off at the intersection of Centerline Road and Bordeaux Mountain Road. From there, it is a 1.7 mile walk up Bordeaux Mountain Road to the trailhead. VITRAN bus fare is $1 per person, per ride. Be mindful of the bus schedule, as service may be infrequent.

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

The Bordeaux Mountain Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike to the highest point on St. John, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's diverse ecosystems and history. The 1.2-mile trail ascends steeply from Lameshur Bay Road to Bordeaux Mountain Road, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet. Starting near the coast, the trail initially winds through a dry, sun-exposed landscape characterized by cactus and scrub vegetation. As you ascend, the environment gradually transitions into a moister, shadier forest, showcasing a variety of plant life, including genips and turpentine trees. Along the way, hikers can discover remnants of St. John's past, including stone walls and possible charcoal pits. The trail was historically used to transport bay rum leaves from Bordeaux Mountain to the distillery at Lameshur Bay. While the summit itself lacks a formal viewpoint, the panoramic vistas along the trail offer breathtaking views of Great Lameshur Bay, Yawzi Point, Ram Head Point, and the surrounding islands. Though the trail is relatively short, its steep and rocky terrain makes it a strenuous climb, especially in the Caribbean heat. Proper footwear, sun protection, and plenty of water are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.

Popular Experiences near Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Popular Hotels near Bordeaux Mountain Trail

Select Currency