The hike is short timewise, about 20 minutes one way. Although the terrain is moderate to steep, the trail is mostly forest and shaded. You'll often see families and people taking their dogs on this hike since it is relatively short. As you hike along the trail, be on the lookout for lizards, hermit crabs, butterflies and the occasional mongoose. At the top of the hill is the historic Hams Bluff Lighthouse with nice views of the ocean, and views of the coastal hills known as the Maroons. On clear days, you can see other islands to the north and west.

Current condition of Hams Bluff Lighthouse

A brief history of Hams Bluff Lighthouse:
The lighthouse was designed and built by the Danish between 1913 and 1915, and was originally operated by lighthouse keeper A.L.F.L. Madsen. It is situated on the northwestern coast of St. Croix, on a bluff Hams Bluff which rises approximately 360 feet above sea level. Constructed of cast iron on a concrete foundation, this cylindrical lighthouse originally was painted white with a black cupola. In 1917 the Danish West Indies were sold to the United States, at which point the U.S. Coast Guard took over operation of the lighthouse. The lighthouse was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places in 2019 (NRHP reference No. 100004382). 

Unfortunately, the lighthouse was deactivated in the mid-1990s and is now deteriorating. The historic tower has been abandoned; the beacon is now mounted on an adjacent new truss tower. The light displays two white flashes every 30 seconds at a focal plane of 394 feet (120 m).

• While much of the trail is shaded, there is not always shade at the top of the hill so be sure to wear lots of sun protection. 
• There are no amenities, so bring plenty of water.
• Since the terrain is rocky and uneven, wear sturdy footwear that ties or straps onto your feet.
• For your safety, do not hike alone, and proceed only if you are physically fit enough to complete a hike safely.
• Vehicles can be parked at the National Guard Facility from which you can walk to the trailhead. 
• Do not leave any valuables in your car while hiking.

Directions:

From Frederiksted, take Route 63 north. The road closely follows the shoreline for about 3 miles and then turns inland. When you can no longer see the ocean, look for the first narrow road on the left, marked by two pillars, and turn left onto that road (which is still Route 63). Follow the road for about 1/2 a mile until it ends at the National Guard facility and park near the facility. The road is usually in bad condition, so drive carefully.