Chalky Mount Hike Start/Parking

a month ago

There is conflicting information about routes on multiple Google Maps pins, so let me try to clear it up. I hiked from this starting point alone, without a guide, in sandals, not having done it before, and it was totally fine. The "Keith Laurie Memorial Cross" (also on Google Maps) is the tallest peak in this whole area, and offers amazing views. The start of the trailhead is in the first attached photo, through the bushes to the left from the parking area. The trail is straightforward for the first bit. After passing a couple mountain biking ramps, you'll come to a fork in the trail with no sign. Either way works (I went up one way and down the other), but the left way is a bit more direct. If you go up the left way, you'll get to the sign in the second photo. Turn right, then immediately turn left at the next unmarked fork. Then it's completely straightforward all the way to the Cross. In general, you can't get lost as long as you're generally going uphill. As you approach the top of the ridge, be warned that there are some thorny trees that don't look like they would be thorny, but they are. After you get to the top, you can hike down the other side of the ridge to the left, and in about 2 minutes will be at the Picture Hole, which is honestly the best part of the hike, so well worth the brief descent! I couldn't find a way to continue down after that, so I backtracked back up the peak and back the way I came. The whole thing took me a bit over an hour.

a year ago

Very very beautiful hike, but challenging at times. I personally didn’t need a guide, but felt more comfortable going with a friend. I think I’d still do it alone, just pay attention and stay alert.

3 years ago

Park here to start the hike up to the Keith Laurie Memorial Cross and Franz Phillips Memorial Picture Hole. There is another listing for “Chalky Mount Trail”,but I wouldn’t recommend it. If you’re in a hire car you’ll want this listing for the parking.

a year ago

I did not come prepared and didn't make it too far from the start point. Lots of interesting wildlife in this area. I saw a rather large bee! Great scenic points even near the start of the trail

2 years ago

Wild Barbados tour guide was great. Zack is very knowledgeable about Barbados wildlife and vegetation.