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Tektite Trailhead: A Hike Through History and Nature

Hike the Tektite Trail in St. John's National Park: Discover stunning views and the history of underwater exploration in the Virgin Islands.

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The Tektite Trailhead in St. John's Virgin Islands National Park marks the start of a scenic hike blending natural beauty with unique history. The trail leads through diverse terrain to stunning coastal views, offering a glimpse into the past with remnants of the Tektite Project, an underwater habitat experiment from the 1960s.

A brief summary to Tektite Trailhead

  • 878M+V8R, Rte 107, St John, Lameshur Complex, St John, 00830, VI
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Local tips

  • Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and ensure cooler temperatures.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities available along the trail.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky terrain comfortably.
  • Be prepared for some overgrown sections on the trail, especially at the beginning.
  • Consider bringing snorkeling gear to explore Beehive Cove, the site of the Tektite project, after your hike.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. Inform the driver you wish to go to Tektite Trailhead near Lameshur Bay. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Confirm the fare before starting; taxi rates to the south shore are generally per person. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for the ride.

  • Walking

    For adventurous travelers already in the Lameshur Complex area, the Tektite Trailhead is accessible by foot. From Great Lameshur Bay, walk west along the shoreline, then follow the road leading up from the beach. The trailhead is located 60 feet west of the steep concrete road leading down to Lameshur Bay. Be prepared for a steep uphill walk to reach the trailhead.

  • Car

    From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) or North Shore Road (Route 20) towards Coral Bay. At the bottom of the steep hill entering Coral Bay, turn right at the 'T' intersection. Follow the winding road for about 5 miles, past Concordia and Salt Pond. At the end of the paved road, you'll find the entrance to Lameshur Bay. Continue past Great Lameshur Bay to reach the trailhead. Parking is limited near the trailhead. Be aware that the road to Lameshur Bay is unpaved and can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

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Discover more about Tektite Trailhead

Embark on an adventure at the Tektite Trailhead, where the allure of St. John's natural landscape intertwines with a fascinating chapter of underwater exploration. This trailhead, nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park, provides access to a moderately challenging 0.7-mile hike that ascends through dry forests, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. The trail's name pays homage to the Tektite Project, a pioneering underwater habitat experiment conducted in 1969. During this joint venture by the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Navy, NASA, and General Electric Co., four aquanauts lived for 58 days in an underwater habitat situated in Beehive Cove, a short distance from the trail. The habitat, designed as a prototype for the orbiting Skylab, allowed scientists to study the psychological and physiological effects of prolonged isolation and underwater living. As you traverse the Tektite Trail, you'll ascend through a dry forest, eventually connecting with the old Tektite Road, originally built to support the Tektite Project. The path leads along a ridgeline, passing over three hills and offering spur trails to Cabritte Horn Point and the shoreline of Great Lameshur Bay. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Beehive Cove, where the underwater habitat once stood. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home, including various cacti and possibly deer. While the trail is not officially maintained by the National Park Service, it offers a rewarding experience for hikers seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Be prepared for a steep initial climb and some overgrown sections, but the panoramic views and the chance to connect with a unique piece of scientific history make it well worth the effort.

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