EMERALD POOL

At the base of the northeast slope of Morne Trois Pitons, in the Central Forest Reserve is the Emerald Pool. The Emerald City of OZ can't be too far away! Upon our first visit, we no sooner opened the doors of the taxi and heard the melodious song of the the Siffluer de Montagne - the Mountain Whistler or Rufous-throated Solitaire. The Whistler was perched high in a tree across the road - alas I only caught a glimpse of it when it flew.

At the entrance to the trail, a local music band played 'rainforest' music. It was a delight to listen to their music on the descent to the pool. The trail through the rainforest is short and there are two overlooks, one provides a view down the Belle Fille Valley towards the east coast.

At the base of the trail is the lovely Emerald Pool. It is said that the pool's level was much higher prior to the devastation wrought by Hurricane David. This hurricane had such a significant impact upon Dominica, that Islander's frequently refer to pre- and post- Hurricane David conditions.