This is not an easy trail. It is a steep and steady incline, gaining gaining 719 feet of elevation in less than one mile. But the breathtaking view you will have from the top (pictured above) will totally be worth it.

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-view-from-top

The total distance is 2.4 miles which does not sound much but don’t forget it can be very hot on St. John, especially during the summer months.

Caneel Hill Trail directions

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-start

The trail begins just behind Mongoose Junction / the national park service area. You will see a sign and a small path going uphill. Keep following that path.

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-hiking

You will pass through a beautiful world of wilderness in endless shades of different greens. About a third of the way up the trail (0.3 mile) you will come to the intersection, remain on the Caneel Hill Trail, which continues to the right and uphill.

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-hiking-view-usvi

You will get a point with a great view and two shaky, make shift benches and think you have reached your destination, but if you continue a little further, you will find a more comfortable wooden podium to rest, relax and enjoy the view.

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-usvi

From there on, you will finally have a downhill part. At the next intersection you can choose if you would like to go back down onto Northshore road or if you have energy left and would like to continue to Caneel Bay resort.

caneel-hill-trail-stjohn-wilderness

What to bring

  • wear running, hiking or tennis shoes, flipflops are not advised.
  • bring plenty of water
  • bug spray
  • camera