Into the Green: Hiking to Concord Falls, Grenada’s Hidden Cascade
A short rainforest hike, cool plunge pools, and spice-scented trails—how to make the most of Grenada’s favorite cascade.
The first step off the shaded track feels like a small agreement with the island: you’ll slow down. Sunlight filters through broad-leaf trees, turning the rainforest floor into a patchwork of light and shadow. A narrow, rocky path slips between ferns and heliconia, and the air takes on that distinctive wet-earth sweetness—nutmeg and cacao carried on a humid breeze. Ten minutes in you hear it: the steady, honest drum of water hitting rock. Concord Falls arrives gradually, a series of short drops pooling into clear, cool basins framed by mossy boulders and vines. The water dares you to sit, to lean in, to let the day be measured by the clock of the falls.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Morning light and cooler temperatures make the trail easier and the pools less crowded; aim to arrive before 10 a.m.
Grip and gait
Wear trail shoes or sturdy sandals—rocks and roots get slick after rain and at the water’s edge.
Pack light, pack smart
Bring a quick-dry towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a small dry bag for phones and cameras.
Hire a local guide
Guides know the safest lines to the pools, local history, and can arrange combined visits to Chocolate and Nutmeg sites.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fontainebleau (Concord’s sister falls)—a quieter, steeper climb with a private pool
- •Gouyave Fish Friday and Diamond Chocolate Factory tasting in Gouyave
Wildlife
tropical hummingbirds and bananaquits, small ground mammals like agoutis and colorful tree frogs
Conservation Note
Visitors should avoid soaps in the pools, stay on marked trails to prevent erosion, and support locally run tours that channel income to nearby communities.
Grenada’s colonial history and fertile volcanic soils established the island as the "Spice Isle," with nutmeg and cacao central to the local economy and culture.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, lush green scenery, birdwatching
Challenges: occasional showers, muddy trails
Spring brings fresh growth and active birdlife; expect intermittent rain that can make the trail slick but keeps the pools full.
summer
Best for: warm swims, long daylight, paired sea activities
Challenges: high humidity, brief heavy downpours, more insects
Summer is warmest—perfect for a swim—but storms can develop quickly, so plan around morning windows and bring insect repellent.
fall
Best for: fewer visitors, good water flow, spice harvest colors
Challenges: post-storm mud, potential runoff
Fall maintains good stream flow and comfortable temperatures; trail conditions depend on recent rains, so check with guides.
winter
Best for: dry hiking, clear views, peak tourist season
Challenges: more visitors, higher tour prices
The dry season (Dec–Apr) makes for the easiest hiking conditions and crisp views—arrive early to avoid crowds.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail shoes or grippy sandalsEssential
Protects feet on wet rocks and uneven roots while allowing you to wade through pools.
Quick-dry towel and swimwearEssential
You’ll want to take a refreshing dip—drying quickly helps if you continue touring afterward.
Light rain shell
A compact shell handles sudden tropical showers without weighing you down.
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5L)Essential
Hydration is essential in humid heat; refill from tour vehicles or lodges before the hike.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Concord Falls?
The main trail to the principal pools is roughly 0.5–1 mile (0.8–1.6 km) with moderate footing and about 200–300 ft of elevation change; expect 20–40 minutes each way depending on pace.
Can you swim at Concord Falls?
Yes—several plunge pools are safe for swimming; avoid entering after heavy rains when currents and runoff can be stronger.
Do I need a guide?
Guides aren’t mandatory but are strongly recommended for safety, local knowledge, and combined logistics with chocolate or rum stops.
Are children and seniors able to do the hike?
Many families and older visitors complete the main falls circuit, but those with mobility issues should avoid the steeper Fontainebleau push.
What should I wear?
Quick-dry clothing, sturdy shoes with grip, and a light layer for shade-to-sun transitions; bring a hat and reef-safe sunscreen.
Is there an entrance fee?
Fees vary by operator; independent visitors may pay a small local access fee—confirm with your guide or tour company in advance.
What to Pack
sturdy trail shoes (grip on wet rocks), quick-dry towel and swimwear (for plunge pools), reusable water bottle (hydration in humidity), reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent (protect skin and local reefs)
Did You Know
Grenada is nicknamed the "Spice Isle" and is one of the world’s largest exporters of nutmeg; many Concord Falls tours include visits to local nutmeg and chocolate producers.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book morning departures to avoid crowds; 2) Combine the hike with Gouyave chocolate or nutmeg stops for a full cultural day; 3) Confirm whether your tour includes swim towels and change facilities; 4) Use locally run guides to support the community and learn trail conditions.
Local Flavor
Pair the hike with Gouyave’s chocolate factories, a stop at the Victoria Nutmeg Processing Plant, and an evening of fresh seafood in Gouyave—local flavors are a direct extension of the island’s rainforest trails.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: 0.8–1.6 km round trip; Difficulty: moderate; Best time: early morning; Bring: water, sturdy shoes, swimwear; Local operators: half-day and full-day tours include Concord Falls with chocolate, nutmeg, and rum stops.
Sustainability Note
Choose small local operators, avoid soaps or detergents in pools, stay on established paths to reduce erosion, and carry out all trash—support regenerative tourism on the Spice Isle.