Ram Head Trail
Hike to stunning panoramic ocean views, unique cacti, and a historical site, with a rewarding bay swim at the end.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Avoid brutal summer heat
Ram Head Trail
Best Time
Avoid brutal summer heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to stunning panoramic ocean views, unique cacti, and a historical site, with a rewarding bay swim at the end.
"Best trail on St. John, by far, with unobstructed views the whole way and such stunning views!"
☀️ Hike Early to Beat Heat
Summer heat is brutal. Start your Ram Head Trail hike in the morning for cooler temps and less sun exposure.
🚌 Public Transport Option
Take the bus to Salt Pond, the last stop, to access the Ram Head Trail without a car.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Vistas
Summit
Unobstructed, stunning views of two large bodies of water. Perfect for feeling the wind and soaking in the scenery.
Ram Head Cacti
Trailside
Unique cacti dot the hillside, adding a distinctive touch to the landscape. A visual treat along the path.
Historical Market Site
Summit
Discover a poignant historical market site detailing an early slave rebellion, offering a blend of tragedy and interest.
Refreshing Bay Swim
Trail End
Cool off in the bay at the bottom of the hike. A perfect reward after a challenging trek under the sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat on Ram Head Trail
Getting to Ram Head Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
National Park Hiking
☀️ Hike Early to Beat Heat
Summer heat is brutal. Start your Ram Head Trail hike in the morning for cooler temps and less sun exposure.
🚌 Public Transport Option
Take the bus to Salt Pond, the last stop, to access the Ram Head Trail without a car.
Hiking/remote beaches or islands
Seeking Tips and Recs for 8 days in St. John’s
🌊 Swim at Trail's End
Cool off in the bay at the bottom of the hike. A perfect way to refresh after your trek.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has ups, downs, and stairs. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for navigating the terrain.
Itinerary Feedback - St. John
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Hike Early to Beat Heat
Summer heat is brutal. Start your Ram Head Trail hike in the morning for cooler temps and less sun exposure.
🚌 Public Transport Option
Take the bus to Salt Pond, the last stop, to access the Ram Head Trail without a car.
🌊 Swim at Trail's End
Cool off in the bay at the bottom of the hike. A perfect way to refresh after your trek.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has ups, downs, and stairs. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for navigating the terrain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Ram Head Trail's stunning, unobstructed ocean views and unique cacti. While the hike is generally not too difficult, the intense summer heat and lack of shade are significant challenges. Many recommend an early morning start and appreciate the refreshing bay swim at the end. The historical market site adds an interesting layer to the experience.
"Amazing views! Hike isn’t too tough, but the heat in summer is brutal. Luckily you can cool off in the bay at the bottom of the hike back."
Dylan Hardy
"The trail was fun to do with multiple amazing beach views. My best spot was up in the top where you inbetween the two big body of water and it’s very windy."
Najlaa Ibrahim
"Awesome hike. Beautiful beaches. Not too hard. Do it in the morning so you don’t get beaten by the sun."
Girish Ghimire
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the public bus from Cruz Bay to Salt Pond, which is the last stop. From there, you'll have a trek to the trailhead.
Yes, there is a parking area near the start of the trail, though it can fill up.
The trail is located on St. John, and the closest main hub is Cruz Bay.
While you can take a bus from Cruz Bay towards the trail, it's not a direct walk. The bus to Salt Pond is the recommended public transport option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ram Head Trail is part of the Virgin Islands National Park, so an entrance fee may apply depending on your park access. Check the official NPS website for current fees.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check with the National Park Service for any specific restrictions.
As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, there might be an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information on fees and passes.
While the trail is generally open during daylight hours, it's recommended to hike during cooler parts of the day, especially in summer.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered not too tough, with some stairs, ups, and downs. The main challenge is the heat and lack of shade in summer.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Salt Pond Bay area, which is near the trailhead.
Expect beautiful beaches, unique ram head cacti, and unobstructed panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
The hike is manageable for older children who are accustomed to walking. Be mindful of the heat and ensure they stay hydrated.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. The saddle area and the cobblestone beach also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light and avoids harsh midday sun, making for better photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks. Always check the official Virgin Islands National Park regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for the trail's ups and downs. The reward of reaching the summit with its stunning views and the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the bay at the end can make the effort worthwhile for the whole family. Ensure children are wearing appropriate footwear for the terrain.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. The stunning natural beauty and the refreshing swim at the end are all free once you're there. This makes the Ram Head Trail a fantastic, cost-effective way to enjoy the natural wonders of St. John.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Ram Head Trail: A Hiker's Guide
One of the most significant draws of the Ram Head Trail is the unobstructed panoramic views it provides. As you ascend, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding ocean and islands, with the summit offering a particularly spectacular vantage point between two large bodies of water. This makes it a prime location for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Adding to the trail's appeal is its historical significance. At the top, you'll find an interesting historical market site that commemorates an early slave rebellion. This offers a moment of reflection on the island's past. After completing the hike, a welcome reward awaits at the bottom: a refreshing swim in the bay. This combination of natural beauty, historical context, and a refreshing dip makes the Ram Head Trail a must-do for many visitors to St. John.
Accessibility and Transportation to Ram Head Trail
While the bus provides a way to get close, it's important to note that there is a parking area available for those who do drive. However, the public transport option is frequently mentioned as a practical solution for reaching the trail. Planning your bus journey in advance can help ensure a smooth start to your hiking adventure.
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