Backcountry Information

St. John is less than 20 square miles in total, and Virgin Islands National Park takes up about three-fifths of that land area; parklands include beaches, forests, mountains, and outlying islands. In such a compact area, there's little in the way of classic backcountry in the park, with just one trail (the Reef Bay Trail) classified as a backcountry trail. The park's website says it best, "Though we do not have anything scary here like lions, tigers, bears, alligators, or snakes, we do have a few things that you should avoid." It's a small list, and it comes down to this: look, but don't touch. On the land and in the sea there are plants and animals that may bite, sting, or cause allergic reactions, so be aware and careful when in unfamiliar territory. When hiking, stay aware of your surroundings, be prepared with extra water, a snack, and extra sunblock, and bring a map of the area with you.