St. Croix - East End Hills - April 7

[marty]

I recently went on a vacation to St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, along with my wife, her two best friends and their husbands. While they all love to hang out on the beach and sip rum drinks, I prefer to go hiking and explore the area. Found one really cool hike that I wanted to share.

We stayed on the St. Croix east end, about 2 1/2 miles from the easternmost point in the USA (Point Udall). There are many hills here, but very little information on hiking trails. In addition, much of the land is privately held with No Trespassing signs.

About mid-week, I found out from a local hiker that I could walk from our place, cross some private land and get to a nature preserve with trails that lead up hills and out across some deserted beaches and dunes. I stopped and asked the landowner who gladly let me cross.

My immediate hike was up the Goat Hills and Sugarloaf Hill. There were several ups and downs, with the highest point being Sugarloaf at 672 feet. With the 85 degree heat, somewhat rugged terrain and partial sun, it was a workout. As it was mostly a ridge walk over scrub forest, views abounded for most of the hike. The hike ended at the Sugarloaf summit with a stunning 360 degree view of the entire island and out across the Caribbean to St. John's and St. Thomas, 40-50 miles away.

After that was a trip down the hills and off to Jack's Bay, Isaac's Bay and Point Udall. All were spectacular. Jack's was pristine, but not much different than other more accessible beaches in the area. Isaac's Bay was one of the quietest, cleanest and most pristine beaches you will ever find anywhere. It required crossing over a ridge in full sun, so I stopped there for a swim in the inviting waters. Point Udall had a spectacular rocky shore, with waves crashing 30 feet in the air. After taking it all in, I then returned home.

The entire hike was about 8-9 miles round trip and about. It was hot, but very doable, especially with many places to cool off in the Caribbean. Going early in the morning is the way to go, if you want to avoid the heat. I recommend bringing trekking poles or high gaiters due to the many pricker bushes you will encounter (I didn't bring either and got lots of minor cuts on my legs). Also bring sunscreen and LOTS of water, as you would suspect. Unless it is rainy season, you will probably not find any water while hiking, so bring all that you need.

If anyone is interested in hiking St. Croix, I would be happy to share information that I gathered. Just send me a Private Message.

Regards,
Marty