'Make Blue Mountain trail an eco-tourism attraction '
published: Monday | August 11, 2003

THE EDITOR, Sir:

LIKE JAMAICA, the other islands in the region competing for the tourist dollar all have "sun, sea and good beaches". Unlike Jamaica, what most of them do not have is varied topography and the associated "flora and fauna". Add to that a "hikeable" trail to the second highest peak in the area and in today's health-conscious world we should be almost inundated with tourists looking for something different. The trail to the Blue Mountain Peak offers a challenging but pleasant hike with the foliage and bird life encountered on the way as "brawta".

However, deterrents to most climbers and especially to tourists, are the relatively poor condition of the trail (although improved to when I first wrote to The Gleaner about it in November 1995) and more important, the lack of facilities when the peak is finally reached! The cabin which once was a secure house where hikers slept, is now bereft of doors, windows and flooring. What roof remains leaks. The toilet facilities have long since disappeared. The Blue Mountain trail hike should be one of Jamaica's main tourist attractions and should be marketed as such. It should be of more interest to eco tourists than the Dunn's River Falls. The facilities, however, have first to be fixed. The trail must be brought up to standard with removal of the many loose boulders waiting to cause damage to an ankle or knee. More clearly written signs are needed so that hikers can note their progress. Above all the facilities at the peak must be attended to. There should be a ranger's station at the summit with an attached canteen selling snacks, soft drinks, postcards and souvenirs such as "I made it to Blue Mountain Peak", signed by the ranger. The sleeping facilities must be upgraded with separate gender quarters. The toilet facilities must be restored. A few small cottages may even be placed on the slopes so that hikers may privately spend a night or two. A helicopter pad should be in place for emergencies and provisions.

It takes "money to make money" and the expenditure required to make the changes as outlined should be quickly regenerated with the increased traffic of locals and tourists to the peak. The toll of $50 per person collected by the ranger at Portland gap could be increased to $100 if the condition of the trail and the facilities are improved.

I am sure that between the Blue and John Crow Mountain authorities, the Jamaica Tourist Board and locals who are interested in the development of their country, money can be found to make the Blue Mountain trail an eco-tourism attraction. This should also stimulate most Jamaicans to make it to the peak at least once.

I am, etc.,

L. LAWSON DOUGLAS,

"The 1/4 Deck"

Jack's Hill PA, St. Andrew

More Letters