Gannets Ridge

Gannets Ridge runs along the upper western side of Pitcairn, high ground reached by track from Adamstown, and from it the island falls away steeply to the sea on both sides. The vegetation up here is thicker than around the settlement, with rosewood and pandanus and the introduced growth that has spread over the last two centuries. Seabirds work the updrafts along the ridge line.

The landscape

• The ridge line - the high ground running along the western side.
• The double drop - the island falling steeply away on both sides.
• The vegetation - thicker growth than around the settlement.
• The seabirds - the birds riding the wind along the ridge.

When to go

April to October is cooler for walking. Tracks are slippery after rain. Cloud sits on the high ground at times.

Before you go

The tracks are steep and rough and can be muddy for long stretches. There is no signage and local direction is worth having. The island is small but the walking is harder than the distances suggest.

Nearby

Highest Point is east, and Tedside is below to the west.