cipher--best wishes with your last minute trip! I hope you pack your patience as things have been a major crap shoot recently.

As far as your questions in general, I'm not much of a hiker, so can't really help you much. But do bring your hiking shoes. I certainly would not count on picking some up on island. I hear about a place called David's Hole that is supposed to be cool. Pik Paradise is a great view, but not that safe. You might be able to find a group trip going up there that would provide more security.

Enjoy! And do post about your trip upon your return!