Everything to Know About The Petroglyphs on St. John
St. John is known for its pristine beaches and charm, but did you know that it also has a rich history of indigenous peoples? One of the most remarkable relics of their culture can be found near the Plantation Ruins - the petroglyphs.
These ancient carvings on rocks have been around for thousands of years, and they offer visitors a look at the past while immersing them in the island's natural beauty. If you're planning a trip to the Finisterre Estate or anywhere on St. John, you don't miss the chance to explore this exciting part of USVI history.
The Petroglyphs on St. John
The petroglyphs on St. John date back to the pre-Columbian era, when the island was inhabited by the Taino people. According to experts after investigating two sites on St. John, Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay, the Taimo culture was in fact present on the island. Confirming the petroglyphs and artifacts found were theirs.
These petroglyphs are thought by experts to depict the elite dead. They are there to represent the faces of their ancestors or the faces from their supernational world.
Regardless of what anyone believes about the meaning behind them, one thing is for sure - they hold significant importance in Taino culture and history.
Finding The Petroglyphs
While spotting the petroglyphs can be a bit of an adventure, it can also be a fantastic opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island. The only way to reach them is via a hike through the island.
During the hike, you'll encounter a variety of terrain, including rocky surfaces, jungle-like areas, and it's mostly at a downhill slope. So make sure to wear proper hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
The hike is a little over 3 miles long. To get started you'll need to:
Start at the Centerline Road
Find a smaller brown sign for "Reef Bay" (About halfway to Coral Bay)
Here you can start your 3 mile hike downhill
You can also use directions on Alltrails to find The Petroglyphs.
Once you reach the rock face, you'll see multiple carved images that have stood the test of time. It's important to remember that these petroglyphs are a rich part of history and should be treated with respect. Avoid touching them, and as always make sure to leave no trace behind.
Don't Feel Like Hiking?
Alternatively, if you don't want to hike all the way back up to Reef Bay trail, there are guided hikes with the Virgin Islands National Park. The cost is $40. The hike starts at the Visitor's Center, where you will take a taxi ride to the Reef Bay trailhead. Along the trail, a knowledgeable guide will accompany you, sharing insights on the rich history, diverse flora, and fascinating fauna.
Preparing For The Hike
As mentioned, proper hiking shoes and water are essential items to bring along for the hike. But there are a few other things you should keep in mind before setting out on this adventure:
Bring sunscreen - the Caribbean sun is strong, and you'll be outside for several hours.
Bug spray is also a good idea to protect against mosquitos and other insects.
Consider bringing a snack or lunch to enjoy at the petroglyphs site.
Bring a swimsuit if you want to get in the water.
Take your time and enjoy the hike, don't rush through it!
Other Activities Near The Petroglyphs
If you're interested in learning more about the Taino culture and history, there are a few other activities near the petroglyphs that you can also explore:
Visit Reef Bay Estate Great House Ruins, a complex and sugar factory constructed in 1844,
Explore the nearby Plantation Ruins where you can learn about the estate's history.
Check out Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins where you can see one of the most extensive sugar mill ruins in the Caribbean.
If you are visiting the USVI, you should also consider taking a look at some of the other top land attractions that St. John offers.
With so much to see and do in this area, it's no wonder why the petroglyphs on St. John are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and nature. So plan your hike, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful island of St. John.
Happy Adventuring!
The Team at Finisterre