Hike to natural pools
- Thread starter Snorkeler
- Start date
lvbookworm
SBH Insider
Forget the beach - that cheese plate is calling my name!
Very funny . . . and a perfect assessment!
Jim A
Senior Insider
We hiked to the natural pools for the first time last week and really enjoyed it. We didn’t go in the water for some reason (I guess because we read about the rocky footing and sea urchins?) but the views there and on the walk over were great. On the way back it was starting to get hot so we were glad we went early.
later that same day we hiked the upper path to Colombier for the first time also. We had hiked the lower path many times and it is one of our favorite things to do on the island followed by some time at probably my favorite beach in the world, but the upper path??? I wouldn't even describe it as a hike. It was more just going up and down steps cut into the hill which wasn’t how I thought I had read it described by others who had gone that way. Did they just do this recently? It took us about exactly 15 minutes each way but the walk back up was pretty tiring. We didn’t stop to rest other than for a quick drink but I would never go that route again unless I was doing it for exercise as the lower path has breathtaking views and picture spots
later that same day we hiked the upper path to Colombier for the first time also. We had hiked the lower path many times and it is one of our favorite things to do on the island followed by some time at probably my favorite beach in the world, but the upper path??? I wouldn't even describe it as a hike. It was more just going up and down steps cut into the hill which wasn’t how I thought I had read it described by others who had gone that way. Did they just do this recently? It took us about exactly 15 minutes each way but the walk back up was pretty tiring. We didn’t stop to rest other than for a quick drink but I would never go that route again unless I was doing it for exercise as the lower path has breathtaking views and picture spots
lvbookworm
SBH Insider
Thanks for the update Jim. This is something we've been meaning to do but just never seem to get around to it.
lvbookworm
SBH Insider
Of course...now that I think about it...we've never done it because we never have room in our carry-ons for appropriate footwear. What is required if you take the lower path from Petite Anse? (Something tells me my gold bling flat sandals aren't going to cut it.)
JEK
Senior Insider
Moderator Tim and I did a round trip a few years ago (down the steps, back the lower path and finally back up the twisty road) and even issued a challenge.
marybeth
Senior Insider
We haven't done the upper path for years. Make sure you save plenty of water for the return while you're working your glutes! It used to be just a goat path so those steps are an improvement for sure. I like the scenic views from the lower path.
John, I'd say that road back is steeper than it is twisty. Yikes.
John, I'd say that road back is steeper than it is twisty. Yikes.
JEK
Senior Insider
It may be the steepest on the island. Still remember that hike with pain!
GramChop
Senior Insider
Chacos are my daytime footwear of choice on St Barth. They protect from the shells and rocks at various beaches. They are also sturdy enough for a Colombier hike. They slip on and off effortlessly and take up minimal real estate in luggage.
https://images.app.goo.gl/CD1B8zky3z2FZFpJ8
marybeth
Senior Insider
Chacos are great, I live in them in the summer. The "cloud" version has a softer footbed than the originals, definitely recommend. We are/were runners so typically have running shoes with us as well. I would not recommend any of the hikes with bling flats, as much as I love them too. Not good for you or the shoes.
One time returning from Colombier via the steep path we could hear some arguing and salty language from above. By the time we met up with the group of 2 men and 2 women, it was a full blown battle. The women were NOT happy with the hike and what it was doing to their fancy sandals. Always wondered how the rest of their day went...
One time returning from Colombier via the steep path we could hear some arguing and salty language from above. By the time we met up with the group of 2 men and 2 women, it was a full blown battle. The women were NOT happy with the hike and what it was doing to their fancy sandals. Always wondered how the rest of their day went...
Jim A
Senior Insider
I wore sneakers on the plane because we knew we wanted to hike to the natural pools so I wore those on the upper path this time. For the lower path I have always worn my flip flops. As long as they are strong they should make it without issue. Sandals I suspect would be fine. It’s mostly just walking. Some spots to be careful and some rocks and terrain to deal with, but nothing difficult.
lvbookworm
SBH Insider
Great tips regarding the lower hike - especially the info on Chacos. I'll have to check those out!
