Blue Mountain Peak - Route to the top

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Blue Mountatin Peak - The Blue Mountains

The start of the main Blue Mountain Peak trail begins at Whitfield Hall. However, hikers seeking more of a challenge may prefer to start further back, from Mavis Bank or even from Kingston!

The first section of the hike is named Jacob's Ladder. This is by far the steepest and most challenging section of the route. Soon after passing this steep section you will reach a clearing named "Portland Gap". Portland Gap is about two miles from Whitfield Hall and marks the one-third point of the journey to the top. There are bathroom facilities and a ranger station here and it is possible to arrange to spend the night in cabins (sleeping on the floor) (call the Jamaica Conversation and Development Trust on 1 876 960 2848 for more information).

The remainder of the journey is less steep but you will need to draw on your stamina reserves to reach the top. The temperature also becomes noticeably cooler the higher you climb. As you approach the peak you'll walk through an area know as the Elfin Woodland. The trees and shrubs here are much shorter due to getting fewer soil nutrients than their counterparts in the lowlands.

At the peak there is a large flat clearing where your party can sit down and enjoy the views for a while before embarking on the descent. On a clear day you'll be treated to spectacular views over Jamaica and sometimes as far as Cuba. However, to avoid disappointment do not rely on getting clear conditions as the mountains are frequently misty. Just enjoy the hike and the scenery on the journey, if it is clear when you reach the top then this will be a magnificent bonus.

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