Prusia Forest Reserve | Cartago

Cleaver Woods Recreation Park is a protected natural area located in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago.

This park encompasses approximately 100 acres of tropical rainforest, featuring a network of trails and a central waterfall.

Visual Characteristics

The park's terrain is characterized by dense tropical vegetation, including a variety of hardwood trees, ferns, and flowering plants. The primary water feature is a waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks into a shallow pool. Trail surfaces vary from packed earth to exposed roots and stones. The dominant colors are shades of green from the foliage, with brown earth tones on the trails and grey rock formations.

Location & Access Logistics

Cleaver Woods Recreation Park is situated approximately 5 kilometers east of Arima town center. Access is via the Blanchisseuse Road (also known as the Arima-Blanchisseuse Road). The park entrance is clearly marked on the left side of the road when traveling east. Parking is available in a designated gravel lot near the park entrance. Public transport options to the park are limited; the most feasible method is to take a taxi or private vehicle from Arima.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Cleaver Woods is part of the Northern Range, a mountain range formed by geological uplift over millions of years. The area is classified as a tropical rainforest ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna native to Trinidad and Tobago. The park was established as a protected area to preserve its ecological integrity and provide recreational opportunities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the primary activity, with several marked trails of varying difficulty. The main trail leads to the Cleaver Woods Waterfall, which is accessible for wading during dry periods. Birdwatching is also a common activity due to the park's rich avian population. Visitors can explore the forest canopy via a small suspension bridge located on one of the trails.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities include a small parking area, a few picnic tables, and a limited number of benches along the trails. Restroom facilities are present but may be basic. Shade is abundant due to the dense tree cover. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable within the park boundaries.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally in the morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when sunlight filters through the canopy. The best months for visiting are typically from December to May, during the dry season, when trails are less muddy and water levels at the waterfall are lower. The wet season (June to November) can result in slippery trails and higher water flow.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests that the waterfall at Cleaver Woods is a place where forest spirits reside. A specific tip for visitors is to wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear suitable for uneven terrain, as the trails can be slippery, especially after rainfall.

Nearby Landmarks

• Maracas Bay (12km Northwest)
• El Tucuche (8km North)
• San Rafael Church (4km Southwest)
• Piarco International Airport (15km Southwest)