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Position: 17°38’00.4″N 63°14’19.7″W
Climbing to the top of Mount Scenery on Saba Island, it is easy to forget you’re on an active volcano. The lava dome is not only the top of the island, but the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. While the last known eruption occurred back around 1640, anything can happen, right?
Marlon, with the benefit of four paw drive, beat us by a country mile. The climb is strenuous, which reduces the numbers of people climbing at any one time.
Our taxi driver told us as a kid he made the climb in 27 minutes. We took twice that, but much less than the 90 minutes the sign says it will take. Like any good climb the terrain and flora change as you make your way up, or down. The path is well worn and in places washed out. It’s very good for your quadriceps.
At the top we found the views breathtaking. There are ledges to walk out to and when the clouds clear you can see a half dozen islands shimmering in the sunlight.
Billed as one of Saba’s biggest tourist attractions, we had the place to ourselves. If you ever find yourself on Saba enjoying the excellent diving, take the time to venture uphill and walk to the top. Your quads won’t love you, but your spirits will soar.
For the next mountain, see if Caroline can send you a small husky harness so that Marlon can haul your *** uphill? Well, that’s what I’d need.
BTW, a rat terrier named Sparkles is honored in Practical Sailor as the ideal ship’s dog.
Definitely! Marlon’s mushing abilities are somewhat limited.
Better you than me, I would have been terrified!
It’s only a 1,000’ or so to the rocks below…
Carol, I love your new leaf dress. I am now on Molokai, retired. We are finishing the house.
Carol says she will call soon to catch up!