5 Best Hikes In The Caribbean

These five Caribbean hikes let you stretch your legs and see the islands from a new — and higher — perspective.

The island's first inhabitants believed these twin volcanic spires brought them closer to heaven. You might feel the same atop the taller Gros Piton, rising 2,530 feet above sea level. Note that the trail, which ascends through rainforest and volcanic boulders, can be strenuous. And Petit Piton might be smaller, at 2,438 feet, but leave this nearly vertical ascent up a narrow path to pros.

One hike, three waterfalls: Easiest is the lowest, with a paved road taking you almost all the way to the water. To reach the second, Au Coin, cross an old nutmeg plantation and head deep into tropical forest. A more vigorous trip leads to the third, Fontainebleau, which thunders 65 feet down into a plunge pool.

Don't forget your mask and fins on this island-edge trail: You're hiking to St. John's best snorkel spot. Explore the ruins of 19th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation at the start of the hike, then trek to Waterlemon Beach. From there, it's a short swim to reef-surrounded Waterlemon Cay — and a bonanza of turtles, rays and iridescent fish.

Hummingbirds, crashing waves, humpback whales: It's hard to know just where to look as you climb the trail from English Harbour's Galleon Beach to the most famous view in Antigua. Look for Montserrat's volcano smoldering in the distance.

Bring a swimsuit for this one. It starts with a walk in the rainforest, but much of the "hike" is through a fast-flowing river — the ideal antidote to the tropical heat. Floating past emperor butterflies is cool – but not nearly as cool as sliding down a rock chute into a foaming pool below. Trust us, you'll want another go.