Mount Scenery Trail

The Mountain Scenery trail is one of the most popular on Saba, featuring 1,015 steps that bring hikers up through unique, cloud-forest habitat before rewarding them with a view from what’s often referred to as “the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.” With roughly 488 meters/1,600 feet of elevation gain, that view — when the clouds part — is breathtaking, encompassing Saba’s picturesque villages and neighboring islands. 

Even on its mistiest days, Mount Scenery’s near-pristine Elfin Forest remains a magical habitat. From tree ferns, mountain palms, and wild banana trees to lower-altitude cactus and sea grape species — you’ll see it all in one hike. Big, lush vegetation and canopy makes it a prime choice for birdwatching, but this trail will make you work for its beauty, uphill and down. Sections of concrete can become slippery in mist or rain (hikers are advised to use handrails wherever possible), and deep mud often waits at the highest section of trail, where rope-lines are installed to help euphoric hikers haul themselves up through an unforgettable experience.

Header image by Kai Wulf.