Blue Mountains of Jamaica: Spanning Three Parishes

Jamaica's Highest Range

The Blue Mountains dominate eastern Jamaica, reaching 2,256 m (7,402 ft) at Blue Mountain Peak. The range extends across three parishes:

1. Saint Andrew – Northern slopes; includes sections of the Blue Mountain coffee belt
2. Saint Mary – Northeastern flanks; steep, wet, rugged
3. Portland – Eastern and southern slopes; windward side, highest rainfall

Significance

• Blue Mountain Coffee: World-renowned, grown 900–1,700 m on volcanic soils
• Biodiversity: Endemic birds (Jamaican blackbird, ring-tailed pigeon), orchids, tree ferns
• Water catchment: Supplies Kingston metro area
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Blue and John Crow Mountains (2015) — mixed cultural/natural
• Hiking: Peak trail from Abbey Green (7–8 hrs round trip)