Dogs Unknown
Need to Know
There is a $5 donation / entry fee that they ask for. I was told that it goes towards replacing the ropes and sweeping leaves off the trail
There is a sign there that says a guide is required, but this is NOT true. You can go without a guide. Depending upon when you get there a guide may or not be available any way. Frankly if a guide is available and you can afford it, go ahead and hire one. They are trying to make a living too. If you think you're going to have problems on the fourth class section then definitely pay for one.
Runner Notes
According to a guide the FKT is 1 hr 20 min round trip
Description
The Petit Piton offers the only 360 degree mountain top view on the entire island. The hike to get there is very steep, very rocky and very rooty. However an average hiker should be able to make it to the top.
The trail starts off easy enough and then quickly becomes a steep, rocky and often times somewhat of a scramble. It really never lets up as it gains about 1,300 ft in 0.7 of a mile. The locals have placed a number of ropes along the route to assist and where there aren't ropes there is usually a root or a rock to grab onto.
The crux of the route is two sections of fourth class rock that are both well protected with ropes. There isn't really any actual exposure. But if you're not comfortable with a little fourth class then you might not like this part. It's really not very difficult if you just hold onto the rope and be careful about it.
Once at the top you get a fantastic view of the surrounding area. Bring plenty of water for the heat/humidity. Figure on taking 3-4 hours round trip for a reasonable fit person taking their time and enjoying themselves.
Park either at the Petit Piton Reception Guide Hut or you can also park a little ways up the road at the Piton Falls parking. Either way, walk right past the guide hut and then shortly after turn left onto the trail. Once on the trail is is very easy to follow and there is no other way but up.
Shared By:
Mark O'Neal
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