Dominica’s signature hike is the Boiling Lake trail; a 6 to 8 hour there-and-back trek through rainforest, up and down mountain peaks, across rivers (some of them hot), through the Valley of Desolation – a volcanic landscape of active fumaroles, bubbling mud, hot rivers and pools – to the Boiling Lake itself.
The trail is in good condition with a couple of exceptions: a landslide at the foot of the steep descent into the Valley of Desolation from the summit of Morne Nichols, and a landslide towards the summit of the ascent out of the second section of the Valley of Desolation, just a short distance from the Boiling Lake itself. Both areas are passable as local guides have created diversionary routes (the first landslide is a regular occurrence in any case and the route changes frequently here). As with all sections of this trail, hikers should exercise caution and be keenly aware of the trail, sticking to it and not putting themselves at risk in areas which may be a little more hazardous than usual because of climatic conditions. Some sections of the trail are a little overgrown because of recent rains, and some are very muddy, but all-in-all the trail is in good shape and the hike is as challenging and enjoyable as always.
I recommend hikers take a guide with them to the Boiling Lake, regardless of individual expertise or experience. The route, though obvious in most sections, becomes confusing in the last third (the Valley of Desolation to the Boiling Lake) where it is also the most hazardous. Local guides (whether certified or not) know this trail very well and offer local knowledge as well as a level of safety and assurance. Certified guides have been trained in Emergency First Aid will be able to present ID upon request.
Be sure to set off early so that you can take your time and enjoy it more. I recommend no later than 8.30am from the trail head itself. Remember, it is not a forced march (!) and there is much more to it than being able to say afterwards you have done it. Take time to enjoy the Boiling Lake hike and the diversity of natural habitats along the way, as well as the challenge itself.
Happy trails.
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