Forestry Department to stage Forest Trek 2026 with a focus on Resilience, Restoration and Recovery
The Forestry Department has announced the staging of its highly anticipated Forest Trek 2026, an immersive hiking experience designed to connect Jamaicans with the island’s forests while inspiring greater appreciation for the critical role forests play in national resilience, restoration, and post‑disaster recovery. This year’s event will spotlight the post-hurricane Melissa recovery efforts as it will be held under the theme “Trekking for Resilience, Restoration and Recovery.”
The eighteenth staging, expected to be the largest staging yet will be held on Saturday, March 21, International Day of Forests, and will not only allow hikers to forest-bathe along a 12km trail in the verdant St. Thomas hills but also plant trees. Through guided hiking, environmental education, and tree planting, the Trek will highlight the powerful connection between healthy forests and Jamaica’s ability to withstand and recover from natural disasters such as hurricanes, landslides, drought, and flooding.
Speaking on the significance of this year’s staging, Ainsley A. Henry, CEO & Conservator of Forests, said the event which has had stagings with over 600 persons, is an event for the entire family, “We invite everyone to join us for this year’s Forest Trek and experience the beauty and wonder of Jamaica’s forests up close. Participants can choose from a shorter family-friendly trail or a 6 km option if the full 12 km hike feels too long. This year, we aim to make it our largest Trek yet, and we encourage all Jamaicans to register and be part of this inspiring experience.”
Mr. Henry also noted that the theme reflects the essential work being carried out under the Reforestation, Ecological Enhancement and Landscape Framework (RE-LEAF) and Phase Two of the National Tree Planting Initiative (NTPI2). “Forests are among Jamaica’s most resilient natural defence systems. As we trek through these landscapes, participants will see firsthand how trees protect our watersheds, reduce disaster impacts, support biodiversity, and help communities recover after extreme weather events. The Forest Trek is not just a hike; it's a call to action to observe and appreciate the wonder of our forests.”
Participants will journey through one of the island’s scenic forest reserves, led by tour guides who will share insights on the trail, forest ecosystems, wildlife, watershed protection, and sustainable forest management. The Trek will also feature complimentary prizes and a Trek village with a food court, children's activities, and entertainment for all hikers.
The Forestry Department continues to expand its mechanisms to increase public awareness and engagement on the long‑term benefits of forest conservation.
“As climate change intensifies, restoring our forests is one of the most effective tools we have. The Trek allows Jamaicans of all ages to experience this in a meaningful and engaging way,” added Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change (MWECC).
Registration for Forest Trek is open on the Forestry Department’s website www.forestry.gov.jm. All families, youth groups, fitness enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and corporate teams are encouraged to participate.
