In order to claim this cache, you must e-mail me 2 (5) things:
- What kind of volcanic rock did you see along the trail? Describe it.
- What can you see from the designated halfway point?
- Optional: Name one example of a bird or other creature you spotted along your hike.
- Optional: Determine the elevation difference in feet from the start at the education center to the summit. (I will accept the half way point if you don't make it)
- Optional: Attach a photo of your view from the top to your log entry.
Remember, this cache is specific to Gros Piton. Petit Piton may also be hiked but there is no marked trail and it requires rope sections. A guide for either hike is highly recommended. It is also recommended to start the hike as early as possible before the full heat of the day hits. The interpretive center can be found in in the small town of Fond Gens Libre, where you pay your fees and obtain a guide.
At the time of this writing the fee was $80 EC per person = ~$30 USD.
The Pitons of St. Lucia dominate the landscape. The two steep volcanic spires have been featured in a number of movies including Doctor Doolittle and White Squall. Gros Piton is stands at 770 m and Petit Piton at 743 m. They are linked by the Piton Mitan Ridge. While these peaks are considered the most scenic on the island, they are not the highest. That honor goes to Mount Gimie in the center of the island at 950 m.
St. Lucia is an active volcanic region known as the Lesser Antilles Arc, part of the Caribbean Tectonic Plate. The Pitons are remnants of one or more large stratovolcanos. The area is itself is known as the Soufriere Volcanic Centre. Near the center of the collapsed volcano you can find the Sulphur Springs, another earthcache. A variety of volcanic features can be found including craters, pumice and ash, lava flows, and volcanic rock. The hike itself will provide a good opportunity to see some of the features. St. Lucia has protected Marine Management areas in many locations around the coast including around Gros Piton. The continental shelf here is one of the steepest in the Caribbean. You will find many species of fish is you snorkel or dive in the area. You may even come back into shore with a fish that swam into your pocket as I did!
On the hike you will see just how dense the vegetation is. 148 plant species have been found on Gros Piton and there are an abundance of birds and other wildlife. There are over 30 varieties of mango alone on St. Lucia. We were amused to find hermit crabs in snail shells at the summit.
Enjoy the hike and know that your fee is helping to preserve this amazing location.
P.S. based on some of the stories I have heard, I have bumped this to a 4 star for terrain.