Sulfur Mud Masks and a Boiling Lake

This hike started off like any other. A sign near where we parked warned not to start after 10AM. This is because it generally takes 7-8 hour to complete. We hired a guide named Sebastian (through our friends at the Soft Parade). He informed us about the many trees, plants and wildlife that we passed along the way. He also showed us the signs of landslides which happened over the years and new openings in the jungle that appeared after hurricanes. Much of the first part of he hike was uphill and steady through the jungle with lookouts along the way of nearby mountains. It was foggy and rained off and on early on during out hike. The first major checkpoint is when you reach the peak of one of the Morne Trois Pitons and look out to Roseau and the Caribbean Sea.

Heading down the other side is more challenging and brings new terrain. The climb down was wetter and steeper than before. This is also where you will see the Valley of Desolation for the first time. The valley is full of sulphureous steams and muddy pockets which we used on our faces to get the full experience!

Up until this point we would have been fine without a guide but were glad to have one here. He told us of a guide friend of his who fell into a mud pocket and had third degree burns up one of his legs. The trail isn't as obvious as you pass through the valley, at times getting lost to landslides making it necessary to find another way around. There were a few narrow spots and river crossings which were able to be done by rock crossings, walking sticks, and even a rope.

After crossing the streams and another uphill climb, you'll reach a flat stretch leading you to the platform overlooking Boiling Lake. Sebastian told us that we were lucky as it was full and visible. Some days you cannot even see it due to the fog. This lake is far too hot to swim in! The impressive view can be enjoyed from a distance.

We had the platform all to ourselves and took a much needed lunch break before heading back the way we came. We took a pit stop about a mile in to soak in a natural hot pool with a waterfall. We wouldn't have thought of enjoying this spot had it not been for our guide showing it to us.

This break helped soothe our muscles and prepared us for the uphill muddy climb up the Titon peak. This amazing hike offered a variety of scenic views from mountain tops to sulfur springs to jungle forest along with the many colors of mother nature. It takes a long time but is totally worth the challenge. In the 8 hours of hiking we only saw a few groups of people which was an added bonus. While it can be done without a guide we would recommend hiring one if you haven't done it before. If you choose not to, please make sure you are prepared with a good map and watch your step in the Valley of Desolation!