Morne Patates

Morne Patates, rising to approximately 411 meters above sea level, is one of the most prominent lava domes within the Morne Plat Pays volcanic complex at Dominica’s southern tip. This dome, located just east of Galion and inland from Soufrière Bay, is geologically significant as the site of Dominica’s most recent known volcanic activity, dated to around 1270 AD. It forms part of a collapsed caldera system open to the sea, with post-collapse activity producing at least a dozen domes, including one submarine formation near Scotts Head. The terrain is actively monitored due to sustained fumarolic emissions and repeated earthquake swarms recorded since the 18th century.

Surrounding Terrain and Trails

The area is characterized by steep terrain, ravines like Ravine Blanche, and multiple feeder roads such as Bois Cotlette Road and the nearby Segment #1 of the Waitukubuli National Trail. Morne Patates Estate lies within this area, bounded by the Palmiste Estate to the east and Soufrière to the west. The region blends volcanic beauty with ecological significance, drawing hikers, researchers, and conservationists alike.