Peace Hill Trail

Highlights

• Ruins of a 300‑year‑old windmill from the Denis Bay plantation

• Panoramic views of Hawksnest Bay, Trunk Bay, Jost Van Dyke and Tortola

• Short, family‑friendly climb suitable for all ages

• Historical plaque commemorating the 1953 ‘Christ of the Caribbean’ statue
  

Trail statistics

Description

Peace Hill offers one of St. John’s biggest payoffs for minimal effort. The trail starts at a small parking lot on North Shore Road and climbs a grassy knoll to the ruins of a 300‑year‑old windmill from the Denis Bay plantation. The round‑trip distance is only about 0.2 mile, and the gentle incline makes it suitable for families and visitors with limited time. At the summit, sweeping views unfold: Hawksnest Bay to the west, Jost Van Dyke due north and Trunk Bay and Tortola to the east. Sunset light bathes the bays in golden hues, making this a favourite photography spot. The windmill ruins are a reminder of the island’s sugar‑plantation era; Denis Bay was one of only five St. John estates that used wind power for milling. A plaque nearby commemorates the “Christ of the Caribbean,” a statue erected here in 1953 by Colonel Julius Wadsworth and toppled by Hurricane Marilyn in 1995. There is also a short, unofficial spur trail leading down toward Denis Bay Beach, though it is not maintained. Bring a camera, water, sunblock and a hat, and enjoy the cooling breeze at the top. The entire visit can be completed in about 15 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore other north‑shore beaches.