Hiking Gorda Peak (Virgin Gorda, BVI)
While in Virgin Gorda, Dale and I decided to take a hike up to Gorda Peak, the highest point on the island at 1,370 feet. We were excited because there was a fire tower at the top where we could get a panoramic view of the island, but unfortunately when we got to the top, we learned that the fire tower had collapsed from Hurricane Irma (our hike was in March 2019). The hike is fairly straightforward, but I will highlight some information that may be helpful for those who decide to do this fun and quick adventure.
Trailhead: There are two trailheads for Gorda Peak, but we took the longer trail since it was the first one we could find (directions are hard in Virgin Gorda since there are no addresses). The long trail is located off the North Sound Road on the east side of the park. The road is steep and windy, and the trailhead sign is easily visible on the left hand side of the road as you are driving up the mountain. Parking is very limited and tight on the side of the road. There is another trailhead further up the road (we did not pass by it) that is a shorter, 20 minute hike to the top.
The hike: Stone steps begin the hike from the trailhead, but quickly give way to dirt, rocks, and tree roots. The summit trail makes a sharp right just a few yards from the road, splitting from another pathway that goes straight ahead. Red paint on the stones and trees blaze an easy trail. We did our hike in the late afternoon and saw lots of hermit crabs on the trail! If you’re lucky, you may see the world's smallest lizard, the endemic Virgin Gorda gecko (Sphaerodactylus rarthenopion). As you near the top, you will pass a few sets of picnic tables, where you can rest or open up a packed lunch. You know you are at the top when you reach the fire tower. Unfortunately, the fire tower has collapsed, but there is a big boulder with a ladder that you can climb up. This does not offer much for views, and your best views will be seen on your drive back down the mountain.
Final thoughts: I would recommend this hike to anyone who would like a break from the beach life, but don’t expect any amazing views. It was fun getting to see the flora and fauna of the island, particularly the hermit crabs. I am glad I did this hike, but if I returned to the island, it’s probably not something I’d need to do again unless I had a lot of time and exhausted my time at the much nicer attractions like Spring Bay and The Baths. If you’d like more information on other fun things to do in Virgin Gorda, click here.
Looking down at Spanish Town from the North Sound Road.