ST. Croix – The Virgin Islands Trail Alliance is thrilled to announce the completion and opening of the first new segment of pathway through the Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park, St. Croix. This new one-mile segment stretches from the island’s highest peak, Mount Eagle, descending to Scenic Road, just East of the top of the Beast. This connects with existing dirt roads and traditional trails to create a 3-mile loop.
The VI Trail Alliance has been working in close partnership with the Department of Planning and Natural Resources’ Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas, on this project and the continued establishment of paths, trails, scenic overlooks, picnic areas, invasive species removal, and the planting of native and fruit trees in the lower lying areas.
Designed and built with support from Rock Solid Trail Contracting and with the construction help from the CHANT Conservation Corps, the new path is purpose-built for human-powered use and welcomes hikers and mountain bikers to enjoy healthy outdoor recreation. Parking areas within the park are being improved adjacent to trailheads on the Scenic Road – one just east of the Beast and one just west of Blue Mountain Tower Road. Major roadside cleanup, parking area improvements, and signage installation are ongoing.
VI Trail Alliance greatly appreciates the local experts, naturalists, culture bearers, contemporary trail planners, partner organizations, and residents who shared their knowledge and thoughtful insights during planning meetings and mapping sessions. Their input helped design low impact routes throughout the Park to create public access that showcases the Park’s grand vistas, natural and cultural heritage and enables new opportunities for enjoying St. Croix’s rich heritage.
The project is funded largely through the Inflation Reduction Act grant awarded to the VI Trail Alliance.
Leave a Reply