Earth Today | Forestry Department champions hiking for health, wellness

THE FORESTRY Department is encouraging Jamaicans to join the “hike life”in order boost their health and wellness amidst the demands of personal and professional life.

On September 16, 2025, the environmental agency launched registration for Forest Trek II, its second major hike this year, and invited the public to hike in the world-renowned Blue Mountain Forest Reserve in St Andrew on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

“Hiking is an exciting and invigorating way to be well physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. It strengthens the body; destresses the mind; [and] is a fun way for families, friends and colleagues to bond. It really brings you closer to something greater than yourself – the wonders of the forest, which many still have not experienced,” said Nasheji-Gaye Elliot, public relations and communications officer with the Forestry Department.

The November event marks the 17th staging of Forest Trek, which started in 2011 to celebrate International Day of Forests on March 21. Since then, the hike has become a staple among fitness and nature enthusiasts who take on the cross-country hike in a forest, often a forest reserve.

In 2023, Ainsley Henry, CEO and Conservator of Forests, expanded the hike to children to make it a family event, promoting health and wellness for the entire family.

“It is imperative that we seek to engage entire families, especially in matters of health, wellness and environmental stewardship. We are fortunate to live in a place where our forests provide perfect opportunities for leisure and fellowship. Walking in forests has been proven to not only be great for improving our physical health but also our mental health and well-being, benefits that must be experienced to be properly understood,” he said.

The 10-kilometre trail will start in Miss Lou (Gordon Town) Square and end in the famous Holywell Recreational Park. While the trail difficulty has an overall rating of 8 out of 10, which requires that hikers be fit, Forest Trek II includes points at which hikers can skip challenging parts of the terrain without missing out on the experience.

“The 10-kilometre trail is for persons 13 years and older, and we have a special 1-kilometre trail for children under 13 who must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Persons can also choose either of the 5KM options for a shorter but equally impactful experience,” said Francine Black Richards, senior director, corporate communications and marketing.

The Blue Mountain Forest Reserve is not only the country’s largest forest reserve but also well-known for its rich natural and cultural heritage that all Jamaicans should know about.

The reserve is one of the few closed broadleaf or pristine natural forests remaining on the island and is an important forest ecosystem that preserves many endemic and native flora and fauna that make up the island’s biodiversity.