While St. Croix is known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural history, it also offers some excellent hiking trails that are accessible and rewarding for families. Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a moderate trail with scenic views, St. Croix has options for every age group. Here are some of the best hiking trails on the island that are particularly well-suited for families with kids.
1. Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve Trail
Distance: Approximately 0.8 miles each way
Estimated Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours roundtrip, depending on beach time and breaks
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail starts near Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States. It leads you through a dry forest and down toward two of the island’s most pristine beaches: Jack Bay and Isaac Bay. The trail can be rocky in places, but the route is not overly steep, making it manageable for older kids and adventurous younger hikers. Families often spot lizards, butterflies, and native plants along the way.
Why it works for families: The payoff at the end of this hike is a quiet, undeveloped beach where kids can wade in calm waters and explore the shoreline. It’s also one of the best spots on the island for sea turtle sightings during nesting season. This trail blends light exercise with a fun beach destination, which helps keep younger hikers motivated.
Tips: Start early to avoid the midday heat. Bring plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes if you plan to explore the shoreline. There are no facilities at the beach, so pack everything you’ll need.
2. Goat Hill Trail (from Cramer Park)
Distance: Approximately 2 miles roundtrip
Estimated Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Goat Hill is the highest accessible point on the east end of St. Croix, and the view from the top is a rewarding 360-degree panorama of the island and surrounding sea. The trail begins near Cramer Park and follows an old jeep road that gradually climbs to the summit.
Why it works for families: The hike is short enough to keep kids engaged, and the summit offers a dramatic visual reward. Older kids and teens especially enjoy the challenge and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the top. The wide trail makes it easier for families to hike together without navigating tricky terrain.
Tips: There is little shade on this trail, so bring hats and sunscreen. Pack snacks to enjoy at the top, and make sure to wear proper hiking shoes, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven in places.
3. Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve
Distance: Varies depending on the area explored; walking loops around 1 to 2 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
This area is a blend of history, archaeology, and nature. It’s one of the only places in the United States where evidence of all three major cultural periods in Caribbean history—indigenous, colonial, and modern—exists in one location. Several short walking paths allow families to explore mangroves, wetlands, and interpretive sites.
Why it works for families: The flat, easy terrain is perfect for young children, including those in strollers. Kids can learn about the Taino people, early European explorers, and the importance of mangroves and estuaries in island ecosystems. It’s a gentle walk with lots of opportunities to pause and talk about what you see.
Tips: Bring bug spray, as the mangrove areas can attract mosquitoes. If you have time, pair your walk with a visit to the nearby museum or book a family-friendly kayaking tour to explore the bay from the water.
4. Annaly Bay Tide Pools and Ham’s Bluff Lighthouse
Distance: Annaly Bay hike is about 3.5 miles roundtrip; Ham’s Bluff hike is under 1 mile
Estimated Time: 1 to 3 hours, depending on the trail
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (Annaly Bay), easy (Ham’s Bluff)
The Annaly Bay Tide Pools hike is more strenuous, but for active families with older kids or teens, it’s a thrilling adventure. You’ll hike through a lush forest before arriving at natural volcanic rock pools near the ocean. On a calmer day, you can climb down and safely wade in them.
For a much shorter option, the trail to Ham’s Bluff Lighthouse offers a quick climb to a historic lighthouse with sweeping views of the coast. It’s ideal for younger children and provides a dramatic, photo-worthy experience without a major time commitment.
Why it works for families: Annaly Bay feels like an expedition, which can be exciting for older children who like a bit of a challenge. Ham’s Bluff is the perfect alternative for younger kids or families short on time who still want a scenic walk and sense of exploration.
Tips: For Annaly Bay, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for muddy or slippery sections depending on the weather. Only enter the tide pools if the ocean is calm and you’re confident in your footing. For Ham’s Bluff, the trail can be overgrown, so long pants and bug spray are helpful.
5. Southgate Coastal Reserve Nature Trail
Distance: Less than 1 mile loop
Estimated Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Located near Christiansted, this short trail winds through coastal scrubland, salt ponds, and mangroves. It’s a great place to spot birds, butterflies, and hermit crabs, and it provides a peaceful, shaded break from the beach scene.
Why it works for families: The short loop is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. It’s stroller-friendly in dry conditions and makes a great introductory hike for little ones. The reserve also offers interpretive signage to help families learn about the local environment as they walk.
Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, and visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. There are no bathrooms, so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts
St. Croix is full of natural beauty beyond its beaches, and hiking is a wonderful way for families to explore it together. From gentle strolls through nature reserves to rewarding climbs with island views, there’s a trail to suit every age and energy level. With a bit of planning—think water, sun protection, and snacks—these hikes can become some of the most memorable moments of your family’s Caribbean adventure.
