Hiking in St. Lucia- Ascending the Majestic Piton Mountains
St. Lucia is a wonderful travel destination for people with virtually any travel interest, but it is especially great for those who love a bit of adventure.
There is much to do and explore on the island, from a drive-in volcano to rainforests, waterfalls, and more…. but if hiking is your thing, you have to check out the Piton Mountains.
These twin volcanic spires, named Gros Piton and Petit Piton are a UNESCO world heritage site and bring in visitors from around the world.
There is much to do and explore on the island, from a drive-in volcano to rainforests, waterfalls, and more…. but if hiking is your thing, you have to check out the Piton Mountains.
These twin volcanic spires, named Gros Piton and Petit Piton are a UNESCO world heritage site and bring in visitors from around the world.
Pick Your Piton- Which Mountain Is Right for Me?
With two options, there is a Piton hike for most adventurers. While Petit Piton is the smaller of the two mountains, it is actually the more difficult of the two, with a nearly vertical ascent. As such, a guide is mandatory for this climb.
A Gros Piton hike is also best done with a guide, but the hike is closer to moderate in difficulty. If you are looking for something easier that won’t disappoint the senses, the Tet Paul Nature Trail is another excellent St. Lucia hike to consider.
A Gros Piton hike is also best done with a guide, but the hike is closer to moderate in difficulty. If you are looking for something easier that won’t disappoint the senses, the Tet Paul Nature Trail is another excellent St. Lucia hike to consider.
Janus conquering Petit Piton or Petit Piton Conquering Him!!!
What To Pack For Climbing St. Lucia Pitons?
- Sturdy pair of hiking shoes
- Several bottles of water (2 liters per person)
- Small Backpack - Protein Bars, Sandwich
- Sunscreen and a long sleeved pullover (Not Mandatory)
If you are looking to hike the Piton Mountains of St. Lucia, the most important item to remember is a sturdy pair of hiking shoes with good tread. The ascent up the mountains can get slippery at times, especially on Petit Piton, and while there are guide ropes in many areas, the right shoes can have a big impact on your trip.
It is also recommended that you bring several bottles of water along with sunscreen and a long sleeved pullover for the higher elevations. While not mandatory, a camera is certainly recommended- once you see the views from the summit, you’ll immediately understand why!
Crazy Tyreke Ascending Petit Piton in Flip Flops (Totally Not Recommended)!!
Guided Piton Hikes Keep You Safe and Entertained
The Most-Ordered Beer Brand in St Lucia
As previously mentioned, a guide is required for hiking Petit Piton and is highly recommended for a Gros Piton St. Lucia hike as well.
St. Lucia hiking tours for Gros Piton and Petit Piton can be found through Real St. Lucia Tours and include pickup and drop-off as well as entrance fees and a trained guide who will not only ensure your safety, but who can answer your questions about the mountains and the island.
You’ll learn about the history of the Pitons, the flora and fauna you see along the way, and much more!
St. Lucia hiking tours for Gros Piton and Petit Piton can be found through Real St. Lucia Tours and include pickup and drop-off as well as entrance fees and a trained guide who will not only ensure your safety, but who can answer your questions about the mountains and the island.
You’ll learn about the history of the Pitons, the flora and fauna you see along the way, and much more!
St. Lucia Pitons FAQs - Need to Know!
How tall is Gros Piton?
Gros Piton, the larger of St. Lucia’s Piton Mountains, is a volcanic spire that measures 2,619 feet at its peak. From here you can see the whole of the island around you as well as the lush Caribbean waters below.
How tall is Petit Piton?
Petit Piton, while smaller than its twin, measures 2,461 feet or 739 meters in height, offering incredible views to those who ascend to the peak.
Is hiking the Pitons Safe?
While hiking Petit Piton requires a guide for safety reasons, it is worthwhile to note that there has never been a recorded death due to hiking either of the Piton Mountains. Hiking the Pitons is quite safe, especially with an experienced guide.
How long is a Gros Piton hike?
Hiking to the top of Gros Piton takes between four and five hours, but the lush foliage and beautiful birds along the way certainly make sure that they are hours well enjoyed.
How long is a Petit Piton hike?
Because it is a more difficult St. Lucia hike than Gros Piton, you will find that the Petit Piton ascent will take about 6 hours. It is well worth it, however, and the scenery along the way makes it feel as though time is flying by.
What Are You Waiting For? Hike the Pitons on Your Next St. Lucia Adventure!
If you’re planning an adventure getaway on the beautiful island of St. Lucia, make sure to book your Gros Piton hike or Petit Piton excursion through Real St. Lucia Tours as soon as possible to ensure the availability of a guide on the day that you wish to hike. Regardless of which trail you choose you will find hiking St. Lucia’s Pitons to be an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Adventure is waiting for you in St. Lucia- are you ready to enjoy it?
Traveler Reviews
We used Real St. Lucia Tours for our airport transfers and a day trip to hike Gros Piton. The drivers were professional, courteous and friendly. They made us feel welcome and were concerned about our comfort which showed in their driving skills on the very curvy and hilly roads of St. Lucia. We would definitely use Real St. Lucia Tours on a return trip to St. Lucia. Kimmy was extremely helpful in setting up our excursions and very timely in responses when we had any questions.
Susan and Mike Grant
Susan and Mike Grant
