Sunning Hill seems like a quiet farming community in the elevations of St. Thomas, Jamaica. It has 2 major rivers flowing through it― the Plantain Garden River and the Running River. A section of the Running River has been dubbed ‘Unruly River’, affectionately referring to a favourite hangout spot for the community’s famous native, dancehall artiste Popcaan. It is a community stream snaking through the hills, free for public access at the time of this post.

Unruly River: St. Thomas, Jamaica

On a narrow dirt road in Sunning Hill, a group of friends and I parked beside a fenced field of budding pineapples by the riverside. Containers carrying food and kitchenware were unloaded in preparation for a river cookout. There is a fork in the walking pathway that leads upstream. A roughly 5-minute trek leads to a small spot by the water. From here we navigated through knee-high, stone-lined water to find more shady spots on the riverbank and a rope swing amongst the hanging tree vines.

by the way, quick reminder…

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Unruly River has multiple swimmable spots of varying depths; your personal experience and aesthetic really depends on the section you settle at. Some sections of  the river have mini waterfalls rushing over rock beds. Multiple groups could cool off by different parts of the river without it feeling overcrowded.

Unruly River has a certain stillness to me, which may make it a lovely choice for a solo outing, but its community setting also makes it suitable for a laidback trip with friends. Its clear water reflects a forest green hue of the surrounding foliage. A variety of trees harbour chirping birds and flittering insects, some of which I found myself admiring in still moments. The riverbed is mostly lined with sizeable stones and beds of fallen leaves from the overhead canopies.  It’s one of my friend group’s go-to riverside cookout spots, seasoned with good vibes!

Why is Running River called Unruly River?

The word ‘unruly’ is often paired with dancehall artiste Popcaan. It is the name of his entertainment brand, echoed in many of his songs, and may be considered a spot-on description for his music and antics. ‘Unruly’ is often used to refer to him— “the Unruly Boss”, plus his associated camp, fans and supporters. Upon visiting the river you may spot light posts, rocks, and structures adorned with this expression.

Unruly River has reportedly been one of Popcaan’s favourite places to unwind ever since high school, and he still spends time at times there when in Jamaica. He has credited Unruly River with having a significant role in inspiring many of his hit and unreleased songs. 

Is Unruly River for Tourists too?

The potential for Unruly River to become a tourist attraction was cited after a Member of Parliament met with the St. Thomas superstar. With the completion of the South Coastal Highway’s Harbour View to Yallahs Bridge leg in 2024, the route to St. Thomas is a lot smoother. This has led to a growth in interest and day trips in the parish thanks to a route with less hassle, and one that’s near to Kingston’s international airport. With a personal tie to an international artiste and faster access via the highway, Unruly River does have the potential of becoming a tourist attraction off the beaten path. The limited riverbank spaces and narrow, bumpy terrain leading to it are where some may find issue.

Farming is a popular profession in the Sunning Hill community, with many residents sell agricultural products in the area. It has been claimed that the community vendors have bigger paydays whenever Popcaan visits Unruly River with friends, thanks to purchases of cookout supplies and produce. The potential is here for Jamaica’s fruits and vegetables (and small farmers) could gain more visibility and profit from an international audience as well.

Conclusion

Even with the organic endorsement of a renowned native dancehall artiste, Unruly River is a mostly-quiet spot which can be peaceful enough for a quick getaway or accessible enough for group outings. It will be interesting to see how Unruly River continues to develops with growing popularity.

I have been traveling and blogging long enough to see community oases like this become trending attractions; I have mixed feelings about it. On 1 hand, more awareness leads to more financial opportunities for community members which is a big positive. It also often deducts the serenity and natural beauty when more human elements (including litter) are added. Reggae Falls (St. Thomas), Blue Lagoon (Portland) and Falling Edge Falls (St. Andrew) are a few examples I’ve experienced this.

What do you think about Unruly River becoming a tourist attraction???
Let me know in the comments.

Unruly River Directions

From Kingston & St. Andrew:

• Take the highway from Bull Bay towards St. Thomas.
• Upon reaching the Morant Bay roundabout, take the 2nd exit into the town.
• Continue on the main road until you reach an intersection with a gas station in the Port Morant community.
• Continue along that route until you see a primary school on the right side of a fork.
• Take the left at the fork into the Airy Castle community until you reach another fork.
• The entrance to Sunning Hill is left at a fork in the road; the alternative right connects to the Bath community.
• Follow the straight road through the community to an unpaved dirt path by small houses.
• There is another fork in the road; either path will lead to the river.
• The upward left walking path requires more walking effort.