Hike to Hollis Waterfall

Locating this waterfall took three gruelling attempts to establish an appropriate route. It meant using old maps to pinpoint its location and cutting one’s way through the uncharted territory of the Morne Poui, Aripo Forest. Distinguished land surveyor Glen Wilkes assisted in finding its bearing and charted the course over ridges.

The Hollis Reservoir was built by Sir Alfred Claud Hollis, governor of TT from 1930-1936.

He saw the necessity to construct a dam to supply water to the growing population of Arima and environments.

The expedition to Hollis Waterfall will take three to four hours and begins from the Morne Poui Road in Aripo. The walk along the ridge is in a northerly direction, and the highest altitude is 606 metres (1989 feet). The path continues with a south-eastern descent to the dam, followed by an invigorating climb over rugged terrain.

Along the way, the trail crosses a gentle stream known as the Crayfish River, with its source flowing all the way from Aripo.

The return journey, along the same route, requires a challenging uphill climb to the top of Mount Poui Ridge.

The seeming never- ending ascent may cause one’s muscles to tire and should only be attempted by the experienced or fit hiker.

Tomorrow Fitness Walkers explores the Hollis Waterfall Assembly 4 am - 4.45 am at O’Meara Rd and Churchill Roosevelt Highway Arima (opposite FT Farfan) Hiking time one way: minimum 3 hours.

Rating: 9 (very challenging and not for the faint-hearted).

For more info: www.

islandhikers.com