ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Maroon ridge or Maroonberg
is located high on the scenic ridge northeast of Ham's Bluff. There was a Maroon community established in St. Croix in the 18th century. Although there were no population figures on the size of the community, the fact that the run-away slaves were able to set up a community on an island of 84 square miles in size, and within five miles of colonial government fortifications and garrisons points to the daring and resistance of the black slaves.

According to our local ecologist Olasee Davis,"Maroon ridge is a very sacred place for the people of the Virgin Islands and particularly the people of St.Croix. It was in this area where some slaves killed themselves by jumping off the cliff in the 1700's to avoid slavery. Maroon Ridge is also a significant part of our history as a stronghold for the runaway slaves on the island. It was there where Maroons, or runaway slaves, fought the French, then later the Danish to protect the forest of St. Croix."

In this particular area you will see or hear rare birds such as: Bridled Quail doves, Caribbean Elaenia, & Black Whiskered Vireo. The scenery is breathtaking. You will also see the old Lighthouse on top of Ham's Bluff, in fact, the only one left in the entire U.S Virgin Islands. Please travel with your swimsuit, for at the end of your tour you may cool o f f in the inviting Caribbean sea.

• Hike Level: Strenuous.
• Hike Information: Sturdy hiking boots. Bring towel and swimsuit.
• Hike Duration: 3 Hours