“In the mountains there are only two grades: you can either do it, or you can’t.” —Rusty Baillie
Visit Nature's Sweet Escapes YouTube channel for an in-depth look at this amazing adventure! Also, follow me on Instagram at Nature's Sweet Escapes and TikTok at .naturessweetescapes for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments from my journeys.
Could this be Jamaica’s best-kept secret? The Blue Mountains, home to some of the world's most prized and expensive coffee, offer more than just a caffeine fix.
Jamaica isn’t all beaches and coconut trees—it's also about cool, misty mountains and serene solitude.
Join me as I share my unforgettable journey to Blue Mountain Peak, where I promised myself to hike once every year.
I'm absolutely in love with Blue Mountain Peak, where I find solace hiking alone in the icy cold mountains, reflecting and manifesting.
The absence of street lights, noise, and people creates an atmosphere of complete darkness and tranquility.
This was my fourth hike to the peak.
My first hike with my brother was magical, as it was the only time I witnessed the sunrise.
The subsequent two hikes, clouded but fulfilling, saw me accompanying friends to ensure they reached the top.
This time, I decided to vlog my experience despite the challenge of a cold front, booking our hike with the Jamaica Conservation Development Trust for its affordability.
On the day of the hike, despite the cold front, the excitement of the first-timers encouraged me to proceed.
Equipped with gloves, flashlights (and extra batteries), warm clothing, hats, masks/scarves, rain gear, sturdy shoes, a first-aid kit, toiletries, snacks, water, and fruits, we were ready.
We even carried tea, though its warmth depended on the quality of our thermos.
Packing light was essential, as we were heading to Jamaica's highest point at 2,255.8 meters (7,402 feet).
Heavy meals were eaten early to prevent sickness during the hike, and multiple layers of clothing replaced thermal wear.
As we made our way to Mavis Bank, I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunsets.
Despite pothole-riddled and narrow roads, the journey was worth it.
At Mavis Bank Police Station, we signed in to keep track of all hikers.
Adding extra layers for warmth because Mavis Bank was very cold, we played a few games while waiting for our driver.
The arrival of our 4WD signaled the next leg of our adventure.
Driving through communities, shops, and encountering bikers, we eventually reached Jacob's Ladder—the starting point of our hike.
The drive was bumpy, steep, and dark, taking about an hour.
Equipped with flashlights, we began our hike, initially taking a wrong turn but soon finding our way.
The steep beginning of the hike was challenging, but I paced myself, reminding myself, "When I reach, I reach.
I'm in no rush." Reaching Portland Gap, I found respite among fellow hikers.
The cold and wind urged me to continue towards the peak, where the trees offered some shelter from the elements.
After a brief rest at Portland Gap, I continued the hike. Natty, a friend of mine, went ahead as I was moving slowly.
At that point, I had the mountains to myself.
As I continued alone, I felt a profound sense of peace.
Encountering Natty sleeping, we rested briefly before pressing on.
The howling wind accompanied us, adding to the surreal experience.
Close to the peak, we hiked quickly, resting for an hour to conserve warmth—Natty became my live blanket.
As the sun began to rise, we continued. Despite the cold, all the ladies made it to the peak.
Unfortunately, due to the cold front, we didn't see the sunrise. I saw it for a few seconds before the clouds covered it.
Yet, the sense of accomplishment and the beauty of the moment were unmatched.
We took photos, capturing the windy and cloudy conditions at the peak. I hope to see the sunrise again on my fifth visit.
On our way back, Natty and I captured some beautiful shots.
The Blue Mountains are incredibly photogenic with the right climate, and I can't wait to return.
The return journey was exhilarating and easier. Running down the hill, I felt like a child playing in the hills of Manchester.
The Blue Mountains, Jamaica's first National Park, span three parishes: St. Andrew, St. Thomas, and Portland. The diverse flora and fauna are unique to Jamaica. The 9.3 km (5.8 miles) trail traverses steep terrain within a pristine forest and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elfin forest at high elevations offers a glimpse of nature's resilience and beauty.
Stopping at Burrel Waterfalls eased our weary muscles, adding to the adventure.
Have you been to the Blue Mountains? If so, what was your experience like? If not, would you ever hike to the highest point in Jamaica? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join me in celebrating Jamaica's natural beauty. 🌄🥾
More Adventures
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @NATURESSWEETESCAPES
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Whatta Gwaan!
You've discovered my blog. I'm delighted you're here. Maybe it's destiny. I'm Doreen Lillian Scarlett welcome to Nature's Sweet Escapes where I go on the far side of Instagram to document and share my adventures