Grand Etang Lake: Grenada's Mystical Crater Lake

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Discover Grenada's natural heart: Hike through lush rainforests, encounter playful monkeys, and explore the mystical Grand Etang Lake.

Grand Etang Lake, nestled within Grenada's lush rainforest, is a stunning crater lake formed in an extinct volcano. At 1,740 feet above sea level, this natural wonder offers breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and a chance to spot local wildlife.

A brief summary to Grand Etang

38W3+WRM, Grand Etang, Lake, GD

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Carry water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
Keep an eye out for Mona monkeys, but avoid feeding them, as it can disrupt their natural behavior.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth experience and to learn about the park's flora, fauna, and history.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From St. George's, catch a bus heading towards Grenville. Inform the driver you wish to stop at Grand Etang. The bus fare is approximately EC$2-3. After disembarking, walk 10-15 minutes to the lake, following signs or asking locals for directions.
Car

Navigate to Grand Etang using the coordinates 12.0973369, -61.695449999999994. Follow the main road through the park, looking for well-marked signs. There is parking available near the visitor center. There is an entry fee of USD $2.
Walking

If already within Grand Etang National Park, follow the clearly marked walking paths to the lake. The walk can take 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes.

Discover more about Grand Etang

Grand Etang Lake, located in the heart of Grenada, is a mesmerizing crater lake that sits within the Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve. Formed in the crater of a long-dormant volcano, the lake is approximately 36 acres in size and about 20 feet deep. The name 'Grand Etang' is derived from the French term for 'large lake'.The lake and its surrounding national park offer a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the rainforest, catering to various skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. The most popular trails include the Grand Etang Lake Shoreline Trail, the Morne LaBaye Trail, and the Mount Qua Qua Trail, each offering unique perspectives of the lake and the surrounding landscape.The area is teeming with wildlife, including colorful tropical birds, lizards, frogs, and the playful Mona monkeys. The park is also home to a variety of plant species, such as towering mahogany and gommier trees, ferns, and orchids. Grand Etang's rich biodiversity makes it an Important Bird Area, supporting significant populations of various bird species.Adding to the lake's allure are local legends of a mermaid dwelling in its depths, luring men to their watery demise. While there's no proof of mermaids, the lake's mystical atmosphere and occasional bubbling due to the nearby Kick 'em Jenny volcano certainly spark the imagination.Historically, Grand Etang served as a camp for the Caribs and later played a role in the conflict between the French and British colonists. Today, the park is Grenada's oldest and largest protected area, established in 1906, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and learn about the island's rich history and ecology.