Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine July 2018 | Page 278

Dominca’s Hiking Trails
Taking a journey through the trails of
Dominica is an experience of natural wonders
and rejuvenating hot springs. These trails
are perfect for anyone desiring to connect
with creatures and sights that remind us
how big the world is. On over 300 miles of
this mountainous island, you’ll find over a
hundred species of vibrant birds, among other
geographic sights, animals, and plants. Meant
for all skill levels of hikers, travel the routes
bursting with history related to everything
from agriculture and community to the
Kalinago people.
Follow the beautiful trails to the pair of
waterfalls located at Trafalgar Falls, known as
mother and father. Climb the base of the falls
or swim in the cool waters to relax your hiking
muscles. If you need a little more adventure,
take the walk to Middleham Falls through the
center of the rainforest, passing colorful birds
and luscious trees. Or you could take the hike
to the glowing Emerald Pool. Enjoy several
majestic hiking paths to different areas with
rushing waterfalls and musical birds.
If you’re ready for a challenge, explore the path
of the Caribbean’s first long distance walking
trail, the Wai’tukubuli National Trail. This
massive adventure is 115 miles (184 km) long
with fourteen different paths to take. Each
path has exquisite sights of flora and fauna,
as well as different levels of difficult terrain.
Let yourself be consumed by the magic of
rivers, waterfalls, mountain passes, and over
600 types of plants and animals. It can be a
challenge to walk them all, but each one tells
Middleham Falls
a story of health, community, agritourism, and
a rich cultural history. Marvel at the valleys,
gardens, natural forest, and rushing river
crossings.
On the Wai’tukubuli, you’ll find a path that
runs 10 km long from First Camp to Petite
Macoucherie and is known to be the most
difficult. If you’re an experienced hiker, follow
the mountain range, see the birds soar across
the sky, and stay the night at the cottages
available. Discover rich farmland and forests
packed with exhilarating views. Are you a bird
watcher? Find the parrot habitat and see how
many you can identify.
Another trail you can venture is the Boiling
Lake Trail where you’ll find the second largest
natural cauldron of steaming hot water in the
world. This trail takes six hours to complete,
traveling through the rainforest, mountains,
and valleys. Getting hungry? Stop for a meal
at the Trois Pitons River, then head over to
the glorious Titou Gorge. Follow the scalding
Valley of Desolation to view geysers, hot
springs, and the White River.
If you need a break from these adventure-
packed trails, wind down with some ziplining.
Soar past the tall trees and over the rivers,
feeling like the majestic birds. See if you can
spot a hummingbird or a parrot, among the
other exotic creatures. Travel through the
beach or the quaint countryside learning
about history on a trotting horse. Feel the rush
of waves while river tubing or relax at a yoga
class in the rainforest.
Choose your adventure whether
you want to test your skills on a
hike or relax in the natural hot
springs. On the Dominica trails,
there is something for everyone
to enjoy and unleash their
passion for a thrilling experience.