Main Ridge

Introduction to the Main Ridge

The Main Ridge in Tobago is the oldest legally protected forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere, established in 1776. It stretches across the central part of Tobago and plays a crucial role in the island’s environment. The Main Ridge is famous for its rich biodiversity, lush rainforests, and vital contribution to Tobago’s water supply and tourism.

Location and Physical Features

The Main Ridge runs diagonally from the northeast to the southwest of Tobago, covering a large portion of the island’s interior. It consists of steep hills, deep valleys, and dense rainforest. The range’s elevation generally varies between 300 and 600 meters, with the highest peak being Pigeon Peak at about 576 meters.

Major Peaks and Landmarks

The Main Ridge features important sites such as:

Pigeon Peak – The highest point on the Main Ridge.

(Basto, 2021)

Gilpin Trace – A popular nature trail through the heart of the forest reserve.

(Basto, 2021)

Argyle Waterfall – Located near the Main Ridge and one of Tobago’s most famous natural attractions. The Main Ridge is dotted with rivers, streams, and waterfalls that flow toward the coast

(Basto, 2021)

Flora and Fauna

The Main Ridge is a biodiversity hotspot, home to:

  • Over 200 species of birds, including the White-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbird (once thought to be extinct).
  • Mammals like agoutis, armadillos, and small reptiles.
  • Lush vegetation, including towering trees, ferns, orchids, and mosses. This rich variety of life makes it an important area for scientific research and eco-tourism.
Adventures of Main Ridge
Flora and Fauna
Read more

Importance to Tobago

The Main Ridge is vital for:

  • Water supply – The forest captures rainfall and feeds rivers that provide fresh water to Tobago.
  • Tourism – Eco-tourism centered around the Main Ridge helps support Tobago’s economy.
  • Climate regulation – The forest helps stabilize the island’s climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and protecting against erosion.
  • Cultural significance – The Main Ridge has historical importance and is a symbol of Tobagonian pride and environmental stewardship.

Conservation and Threats

Although protected for centuries, the Main Ridge faces modern threats such as illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, and climate change. Conservation efforts include sustainable tourism practices, environmental education, and ongoing protection by the Tobago House of Assembly and environmental groups. Preservation of the Main Ridge is essential to maintaining Tobago’s natural beauty and resources.

Read More

Test your KNOWLEDGE

Challenge yourself with this quiz on the four mountain ranges of Trinidad and Tobago. Best of luck!

PLAY

References

Discover Wildlife. (n.d.). Tobago’s Main Ridge Forest Reserve: A guide. https://www.discoverwildlife.com/holidays-days-out/tobagos-main-ridge-forest-reserve-guide-2

Flickr. (n.d.). Main Ridge, Tobago [Photograph]. Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/64409934@N00/436287056/in/photostream/

Google. (n.d.). Main Ridge, Tobago [Map]. Google Maps. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Main+Ridge,+Tobago/@11.2763318,-60.6166807,14z/

LAC Geo. (n.d.). Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Tobago. https://lacgeo.com/main-ridge-forest-reserve-tobago

National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago. (n.d.). The Main Ridge Forest Reserve. https://nationaltrust.tt/home/location/the-main-ridge-forest-reserve/

Newsday. (2019, May 1). Tobago’s Main Ridge Forest Reserve is C’bean nature park of the year. https://newsday.co.tt/2019/05/01/tobagos-main-ridge-forest-reserve-is-cbean-nature-park-of-the-year/