Paria still attractive to the nature lover

Paria Waterfall, a favourite destination of many, was affected by the freak storm. The route from the beach to the cascade now seems unrecognisable and at its base there is a pile-up of debris as high as 30 feet. The picnic area encircling the falls is now relocated to its northern side and along its circumference are giant rocks deposited by the furious energy of the downpour.

The river source, which comes from remote areas of the Northern Range, is refreshing, clean and crystal clear. Remaining is the large plunge pool where one can test their skills swimming against the current. There is an overhang located at the back of the cascade where swimmers can observe the fascination of the flow. Alongside the riverbank, some noticeable vegetation are the Maraval lilies (spathiphyllum cannifolium), cannonball (couroupita guianensis) and chaconia (warszewiczia coccinea). Despite the changes, Paria remains one place every Trinbagonian should visit since there are lots of beautiful attractions to fascinate the nature lover.

The beach with its silky smooth sand is 1.5 km long and every year from February to July the leatherback turtles come ashore to nest. On the eastern end of the bay there’s a lovely spot for a splash at the River’s Mouth where the soothing waters remain calm as a lagoon. During high tide the backlash of seawater into the river attracts a variety of small marine fish. The vegetation at the river’s mouth consist primarily of red mangrove and coconut trees grow abundantly on the beach. At the western end, the sea eroded the landscape to create a spectacular arch called Cathedral Rock.

The coastal walk from the Blanchisseuse Spring Bridge to Paria Beach will take 90 minutes to two hours depending on one’s pace.

The trail is broad and detailed with some short inclines. Along the way, an attractive place to take photos is Turtle Rock where the coastal sceneries are magnificent.

There is a need to preserve our natural treasures for future generations to inherit. It is only a matter of time before the authorities recognise Paria’s Beach importance as a major tourist attraction. However, weekend campers and visitors can protect the environment by not cutting down valuable trees and littering.

This negligence leads to beach erosion and endangerment to turtle hatchlings and wildlife.

Tomorrow, Island Hikers visit Paria Bay and waterfall.

Assembly: 7 am at the entrance to Central Bank Auditorium or 7.30 am opposite Sam’s Bar Maracas Bay.

Rating 4-5 moderately challenging The hiking time one-way: 1 ? - 2 hours Depart beach by 2 pm (return by 4 pm) Bring a hat for sunshade, light refreshments and a litre of drinking water.

This hike is recommended for children seven years and up.

Registration on the morning of the hike.

Security provided for the vehicles at Marian Beach Resort.

Maxi taxi transportation provided from Central Bank Auditorium For more info visit www.islandhikers.

com