St. Lucia: Climb the Pitons

By John Bigley & Paris Permenter

Twin peaks: Gros Piton and Petit Piton

The view itself is a classic—the Pitons of St. Lucia, soaring straight up from the sea's edge. But actually climbing the twin set of natural icons—2,620-foot Gros Piton and 2,460-foot Petit Piton—is a challenge very few undertake. These volcanic peaks are for experienced climbers only—they aren't technical, but landslides are a constant danger and the going is very rugged. Snaking up the misty, jungle-covered, boulder-strewn mountainsides for the huge views from the top is an experience well worth the trouble. In spite of its size, Gros Piton is the easier and can be done in half a day; the steeper-sided Petit Piton is more of a challenge.

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