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Sage Mountain National Park: Tortola's Verdant Crown

Discover Tortola's natural crown jewel: Hike lush trails, experience panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Sage Mountain National Park.

4.5

Ascend to the highest point in the British and US Virgin Islands at Sage Mountain National Park. Explore lush rainforest trails, enjoy panoramic views, and discover a haven for diverse flora and fauna. A perfect ecotourism escape on the island of Tortola.

A brief summary to Sage Mountain National Park

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, as the trails can be rocky and muddy.
  • Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other biting insects.
  • Carry water to stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes.
  • Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and better chances of spotting native birds.
  • Take your time to enjoy the scenic overlooks and panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Road Town, drive north on Joe Hill Road, then turn left onto Leonards Road, followed by another left onto Ridge Road. Follow Ridge Road to the park entrance and car park. The drive is approximately 25 minutes from Road Town. Parking is available near the trailheads. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    From Road Town, take a local bus heading towards the North Shore. Inform the driver you wish to go to Sage Mountain National Park. The bus fare is approximately $2 USD. The bus will drop you off at a nearby point, from where you may have to walk approximately 15-20 minutes to reach the park entrance.

  • Taxi

    From Road Town, a taxi to Sage Mountain National Park will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Confirm with the driver that they know the location, which is near Freshwater Pond. The taxi fare will likely be between $30-$40 USD.

Unlock the Best of Sage Mountain National Park

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Discover more about Sage Mountain National Park

Sage Mountain National Park, established in 1964, is a natural jewel in the British Virgin Islands, offering a unique ecotourism experience. Located on Tortola, the park spans approximately 96 acres and encompasses the highest peak in the Virgin Islands, rising to 1,716 feet (523 meters). The park was established through a donation from Laurance Rockefeller, marking the beginning of conservation efforts in the BVI. The park's history is rooted in reforestation, with the farmland being replanted with white cedar, West Indian mahogany, and Honduran mahogany trees. These trees have thrived, creating a lush rainforest environment that is home to diverse plant and animal life. The mountain's elevation creates a unique microclimate, with moist air rising and cooling, resulting in higher rainfall on the northern side of the park. This supports a moist forest ecosystem, contrasting with the drier tropical forest on the southern side. Visitors can explore the park through a network of fourteen trails, with loops creating circular routes. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, from easy strolls to moderate hikes. The main trail, easily accessible from the car park, winds through the greenery to a picnic spot, offering panoramic views of the island, nearby cays, and the Caribbean Sea. Along the trails, hikers can encounter mahogany trees, lignum vitae, rare ferns, and various bird species, including the Tortola Woodpecker and the Bobo Bird. From the mountain's peak, panoramic views extend across the British and US Virgin Islands. The Joseph Reynold O'Neal Trail leads to the summit, offering vistas of the Sir Francis Drake Channel and outlying islands. The park's diverse landscape, ranging from rainforest to dry forest, provides a unique experience for nature lovers and yacht travelers alike.

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