Exploring the Valleys of the Northern Range

During the 18th and 19th century when the cocoa crop was the chief produce, the bench trails were built to connect the various communities and plantations.

Along the route the highest elevation is 2225 feet or 678 metres and is located on top the hill at the passageway between Brasso Seco/Paria to the north and Lalaja to the south.

Wildlife is usually camouflaged but while walking through the valleys at an altitude of 200-600 metres the call of the bearded bellbird “tonk –tonk tonk” can be heard every few seconds. The a rasping “cheeow calla” call of the white– bearded manakin, usually perched on the forest floor, can also be heard. Overlooking Lalaja and Brasso Seco, the channel-billed toucan is sometimes seen high up in the treetops attracted to the date palms. They make a loud “ki-aarh” sound and pluck stone fruits with a hard shell. At Paria Beach one maybe lucky to see the first turtle hatchlings emerging from the sand. Unfortunately, the vultures are always present to massacre the hatchlings and even attack snakes.

On Saturday Fitness Walkers explore The Valleys of the Northern Range. This expedition is recommended for advanced hikers or trained athletic persons experienced in walking long distances.

Assembly: 6 am at Eric Williams Medical Complex, Mt Hope Rating: 8 - challenging and recommended for experienced hikers and training athletic persons.

Estimated hiking time: Six to eight hours For more info visit www.islandhikers.

com