Grandpa Falls: A tranquil oasis in Trinityville, St Thomas

Tucked away amid vibrant greenery, a serene waterfall gushes amid the symphony of bird calls at Grandpa Falls in Trinityville, St Thomas. This hidden treasure has long been one of the parish's well-guarded secrets, but its mystique is now being unveiled.

During the day, the location buzzes with activities for children, while at night, the romantic waterfall becomes a favoured spot for playful adults.

Last Tuesday, the rich aroma of curried chicken and rice wafted through the air, emanating from a dutch pot placed over an open wood fire.

Craig Pryce, known in the area as Grandpa, transformed what was once an overgrown and obscure spot into a popular destination. Pryce spoke animatedly about the water's characteristics.

"If you approach the rock, the water is warm, but further away, it turns cold. There's a deep hole where adults can bathe further downstream," he shared with THE WEEKEND STAR.

The chill spot has been drawing families from various communities to gather and enjoy themselves, while providing a respite from the heat and a chance to reconnect with nature.

"I take care of the property, cleaning up whenever there's garbage left behind, and scrubbing stones with a wire brush to make it presentable for people to take pictures and enjoy," he explained.

A 44-year-old tradesman with a passion for exploration, Pryce shed light on how the community has been utilising the small hidden falls for recreation. "Everyone comes and cooks their own food; sometimes there are pots everywhere on this side. Right here is where the cooking happens," he pointed out, gesturing to the firewood set up for cooking.

The ambiance is further enhanced by the sight of families enjoying the crystal-clear waters, seeking relief from the summer heat.

"Grandpa Falls is taking the place by storm," Pryce said of the spot which is located about 40 minutes from the more popular Reggae Falls. The curator believes that Grandpa Falls, in short order, will soon be welcoming people in droves like its sister attraction.

"I've been here since morning, constructing a changing room. Sundays are packed with people, and they have to change in their cars, so I'm making a changing room," Pryce exclaimed, clearly thrilled by the influx of visitors.

A Trinityville native, Pryce said the enticing water body has been a well-kept secret in the area. He said couples frequent the area secretly, but its recreational potential remained untapped until now.

Robert Bailey, one of the many persons who was seen enjoying the spot, remarked that Grandpa Falls has tremendous potential. He said that some areas of the river where the water pools are deeper than six feet.

"It needs proper management, which is what local people truly need for recreation. I just hope in the future, they won't restrict us from coming here. In most cases of development, locals are often marginalised. We've seen it happen in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril. I just hope that if this place becomes popular, we won't be pushed out."