des moines regional airport Pigeon Island was named for the common wood pigeons (also called redneck pigeons) that once nested o

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Morne Trois Pitons highest of three peaks rises to 4,550 feet, which makes it the second tallest mountain on the island. Don t try this hike unless you re in great shape and have superb balance. After passing des moines regional airport through a relatively easy-to-maneuver forest area, you come to thick woodlands with steep boulders. The view from the top is great if you survive the cuts from razor grass that grows along the trail. Ask for a guide in the village of Pond Cass near the start of the trail.

Pigeon Island was named for the common wood pigeons (also called redneck pigeons) that once nested on the island. You can see them at the Mini Zoo adjacent to the Union Nature Reserve (see Hiking, page 172, for more information). A trail along the south shore leads to a shaded military cemetery, where you can wander among 18th-century monuments that mark the graves of British servicemen who died on the island. Take the signed trail leading to the north side of the Point, where you can climb up to Signal Hill,a fairly gentle 15-minute hike. This was the main lookout station for the British navy, and you will have exceptional views of both the island s Caribbean and Atlantic coasts and Martinique Island, to the north.