Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
On the Southeastern corner of St John, the Ram Head Trail offers a gorgeous views along the shoreline and a gentle walking trail. Passing several beaches before ascending to the point you can hike the Ram Head Trail in just an hour or two. Many people finish their hike with a swim and snorkel at one of the beaches.
Below you can see exactly how to do this hike or you can pop over and check out our Guide to Virgin Island National Park.
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Quick Look at the Ram Head Trail, St. John
Distance: 2.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: ~300 feet
Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
Trailhead: Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot
Highlights: Stunning coastal views, rugged cliffs, blue Caribbean waters, and a dramatic summit
The Ram Head Trail is one of the most breathtaking hikes on St. John, offering a rewarding climb to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The trail starts at Salt Pond Bay and winds through arid terrain, past a striking blue cobblestone beach, before ascending to the rocky summit of Ram Head. Along the way, hikers can enjoy vibrant plant life, cacti, and sweeping ocean vistas. The best time to hike is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch a stunning sunrise or sunset from the summit.
Things to Know about the Hike and St Johns
Trail Conditions & Terrain
The trail is mostly easy walking although there are a few sections that are rocky with uneven footing. Most of the trail is exposed to the sun so make sure to wear a hat and avoid hiking in the hottest part of the day. We did this hike in sneakers and were happy not to have sandals.
The most challenging part of the trail is the final push uphill to the top of the point.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to do this hike is early morning or at sunset. The hike was hot when we did it at 9 am. The last section of the hike does get some wind which cools things down a bit. Even though this is a relatively short walk, water is essential.
What to Bring
- Water: There is no water source along the trail, so bring at least one liter per person.
- Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
- Camera or Phone: The views from the summit are spectacular!
- Swimsuit & Towel: After your hike, cool off with a swim at Salt Pond Bay, just near the trailhead.
Wildlife & Flora
This was an interesting hike with cacti, sea grape trees, and other drought-resistant plants along the way. We also saw a lot of birds, lizards, and a few hermit crabs along the trail.
Parking & Access
The trail starts at the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. This is accurate on map apps although cell coverage is weak on this part of the island. Definintely download maps so you can use them offline. Parking is limited, so arriving early is a good idea. The area is part of Virgin Islands National Park, and there are no entrance fees for this hike.
