Hikes & Trails
Sandy Cruz
Jumplinks:
About this trail
A longtime favorite of hikers, the Sandy Cruz Trail wraps you in a blanket of lush, green rainforest, interspersed with what was previously farmland, to give you a tour of the island’s most iconic views. Take in the seascape at scenic vistas, which may feature a bench for rest and longer-term viewing. Catch views of the airport, featuring the shortest commercial runway in the world, something you likely experienced on arrival. If you look upward, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Scenery, the tallest peak on the island and often topped with a crown of clouds. On especially clear days you may even see the island of Saint Martin in the distance. And don’t forget to admire the heliconias (Heliconia caribaea), standing tall with their vibrant yellow inflorescences, serving as water fountains for birds and insects.
This hike is a must if you’re a plant lover, bird watcher, or just enjoy the serenity that comes with a forest. If it’s recently rained, take extra caution (or choose another hike altogether), as the beautiful moss can become a slip hazard and other areas may become muddy. Even when it’s not rainy, it’s a good idea to bring a hiking stick for extra stability, as there are some steep spots requiring a scramble over rocks (call it a dash of adventure).
Header image by Kai Wulf.
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
2.86 km/1.78 miles
2.5 hours one-way
Hiking resources:
On-island? Stop by Saba’s Trail Shop (run by the Saba Conservation Foundation) for detailed trail maps, info on guided hikes, and more. Plus, support trail-maintenance with a $3 donation, and you’ll receive a Saba trail badge! Not on Saba yet? Explore the SCF’s online map here.
Directions to trailhead
The Sandy Cruz Trail begins near the end of the dead-end road in Upper Hell’s Gate. Signs from the main road will also bring you to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can access the trail from the road on Troy Hill, which extends the hike by about a half-hour.
Trail Highlights
A longer but moderate hike, Sandy Cruz is one of the most popular trails on Saba. Image by Kai Wulf.
Where do you look when the rainforest holds just as much beauty as the vistas? Everywhere. Image by Kai Wulf.
Is there anything as satisfying as a well-placed bench? Image by Kai Wulf.
Tree ferns, bromeliads — what else could one ask for? Image by Kai Wulf.
A pair of happy Sandy Cruz hikers. Image by Kai Wulf.
Ask a Local
Question: What’s so special about Saba’s nature?
Answer: I think one of the unique aspects of the islands is having five ecosystems — you go from a desert climate all the way to a cloud forest. I think hikes are beautiful here on the island. There are over 15 hikes, so you can do everything from a desert hike to a very strenuous hike.
Malinda Hassell
Director of Tourism, hiker, visitor concierge
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