The Queen’s Bath Trail

The Queen’s Bath Trail to the Queen’s Bath pool is one of the most exciting and rewarding hikes I’ve ever been on. And as someone who hikes a lot, that’s saying something. I really do mean that. The trail is pretty short at only 0.8 miles out and back, but it is a very dirty, muddy experience, so plan to potentially leave caked in mud. The hike down to the water, however, is much more difficult than the hike back out, as it’s easier to walk up in the mud than it is to go down the hill to the water in slippery mud. I saw people face plant, but I also saw children hike down with ease- it really depends on how comfortable you are in the mud and how much traction you have. Also, this trail is on AllTrails, so that’s a plus, as AllTrails regularly saves me from getting lost!

However, the somewhat difficult muddy trail down does turn into a lush, green wonderland that is absolutely worth the hike. You’ll begin seeing beautiful greenery and cascading falls as you hike down the last leg to the waterfront. Unlike most of the beaches you are probably used to, the waterfront here is made of a collection of rocks. It reminded me of a Hawaiian version of Belle Isle (for all my Richmond, Virginia friends). As you walk along the rocky beachfront, if it’s a clear day with good conditions, you will see people jumping off the rocks into a few oceanfront coves as well as the most beautiful island mountains off in the distance as you turn the corner.

You will then quickly discover the Queen’s Bath, a rocky ovular pool carved into the rocks. Again, a trail app will tell you exactly where it is, but if you keep going for a bit around the side of the island, you can’t miss this large pool carved into the rocks. Be prepared to have the water crash over the side of the rocks and splash on top of you.

As I sat in the pool by the water, I saw an array of exotic fish swim around my feet and crabs walk by me on the rocks. And the water hit the rocks and cascaded over my head. There were families having the time of their lives all around, strangers were kind, and I just felt this pure, natural energy of everything around me. It was truly incredible.

The way back up the path is much, much easier as the mud had dried some, and it’s easier to climb up the mud than down.

All in all, it is a dangerous journey, as the mud is not easy to navigate, and there are many warning signs about the possibility of falling off the rocks and/or begin swept out in the rough water. So, you MUST exercise extreme caution. It felt like an adventure, a vacation, and an escape all in one.

It’s important to note that (especially in the winter time) the Queen’s Bath can be extremely dangerous. YOU MUST research the tidal conditions and use your best judgement. If it’s even a little stormy or the water is even a little rough, DO NOT GO. People die there every year because they don’t pay attention to the intensity of the waves, so please visit at your own risk and exercise extreme caution. The water here is very unpredictable. I’d recommend that you stay out of the water and watch from up on the higher rocks for your own safety. Even from the higher rocks, people have been swept away in the water before. When I went, I researched the tides, the time of year, the weather conditions, and everything I could to ensure I would be as safe as possible. I only decided to go in the water after observing the elements for a long time that day. Even then, I was aware of the risks. Be smart. Be observant. And be prepared. Generally, the gate will be closed when the conditions are not ideal, so NEVER hop the fence, NEVER go when they have deemed it unsafe, and even if it is open, exercise as much caution as possible and still do your research.