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GRAND-ETANG TRAILS |
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GRAND ETANG HAS A TRAIL FOR YOU: |
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St. Margret's Falls |
Morne LaBaye Trail |
Concord Waterfalls |
| MORNE LABAYE: This short fifteen-minute nutmeg shelled trail is ideal for a brief and informative visit to Grand Etang; the trail departs directly from the visitor center and provides an easy walk through the tropical rainforest. Vegetative species are labeled with signs, and a brief explanation of their history and importance are outlined in an available trail guide. At the end of the trail lies a spectacular tower overlooking the park and the eastern Atlantic coast. |
| SHORELINE TRAIL: The trail follows the radiant shoreline of Grand Etang lake, providing a leisurely hour-and-a-half hike. Passing through five distinct sub-climatic communities will introduce you to the wide diversity of flora and fauna the park has to offer. Be prepared to encounter some tropical mud and intricate stream crossings. A small freshwater pond is home to crayfish and other freshwater species. The Blue Mahoe forest, Bamboo, Gommier trees, the White Cattle Egret birds, wild orchids and Mona Monkeys are just a few of the unique wildlife you will discover. |
| MT. QUA QUA: The trail begins at the Mt. Qua Qua trailhead, a short walk from the visitor center. The rocky, mountainous ridge to Mt. Qua Qua is well worth the rigorous two-and-a-half-hour trek (both ways); the commanding view from the peak at over 2,370-ft. has to be experienced first hand. Be prepared to enjoy the crisp cool air, don’t be surprised if thick mist appears out of nowhere. The clearings along the way and at the peak allow for perfect rest stops, picnic lunches, and panoramic vistas that will not be forgotten. A trail guide is available to point out the natural flora and fauna species and other points of interest. |
| CONCORD FALLS: This trail follows the rugged Mt. Qua Qua route for about an hour, and then departs left before a rocky viewpoint. The substantial trail meanders below the rain forest canopy, crosses sparkling streams, and majestic hilltop views. Providing a good four-and-a-half-hour hike, the trail was designed as a one-way route. Approximately a 30-minute walk from the Qua Qua and Concord junction lies the path on your right leading to FEDON’S CAMP: a strategic base used by Julien Fedon who led a slave rebellion against the British in 1979. The untamed beauty of the upper waterfall near the Concord’s trails’ end will capture your heart – don’t forget to bring your bathing suit for a soothing plunge into the crystal blue waters. After the first set of falls, a 25-minute walk will take you to the main Concord Falls, where swimming, local crafts, food and bus transportation to St. Georges is available. A trail guide is also available to inform visitors of the fascinating points along the trail. |
| ST. MARGARET'S: Truly a trail for the more adventurous hiker. This rugged and untamed trail will provide a rich training experience in tropical trekking, and provide insight as to what is must have been like for the ancient Carib bushwhackers. Located just right off the Morne LaBaye trail, be prepared for a one-and-a-half- hour hike, if you persist, you will be justly rewarded by the untamed beauty of the cool, blue, gratifying Seven Sisters Waterfalls (named so because there are seven!). Take your time in the healing waters; when you are ready to leave from the last set of falls, you can choose to retrace your steps, or trek along the private trail (15 minutes) where an abundance of nutmeg trees are located. This private trail will take you to the main road where buses can be caught. |
| CAMPING: There are several campsites available for overnight camping. What better way to realize our close connection with nature than by spending a night in the tropical rainforest. Hear the forest come alive, cool yourself with the strong breezes, gaze into the majestic sky, cook over a fire and experience the ancient Carib’s lifestyle! |
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