Blog

09 August 2023

St. Croix's "Sundial Park": A UCF "Hidden" Jewel


Written by: Felisha Felix


St. Croix has a lot of hidden gems; and living on an island you do come to take things for granted. Getting outside is good for your mental health and overall wellness as we all know; but oddly we don't practice it enough.


So, when I was gifted with a tour of "Sundial Park" I obviously jumped at the chance. I was also very low on my vitamin D for some time too, so I was excited for this new venture! And I am so happy I was blessed with this assignment. Mr. Cohen of the STX Hiking Association was kind enough to give me the full tour and history behind the project; including the leading woman behind it all, Mrs. Winkfield of VITA! Honestly, this park tour awakened my senses and appreciation for my home. Visiting Sundial Park made me promise to myself to get outdoors more and take on hikes! But let me share more about the park itself. Sundial Park was named after the original owner of the land in Tulipan Welcome, St. Croix. His nickname was Mr. Sundial. Sundial Park is an Urban and Community Forestry funded grant initiated and completed by the VI Trails Alliance. Its 2 acres of land that was actually an illegal dumping site. However, with the imagination, vision and hard work of Mrs. Winkfield of VI Trails Alliance, the Spring Gut community and volunteers; this trash site became a site of magnificent beauty and tranquility. The park was opened to the public on May 6th, 2016. And shamefully this was my first actual walking visit of the site! The park features a human sundial, seating pavilion, bridge, benches, striking red Flamboyant trees, an appealing hand designed wall entrance displaying the funded UCF project with painted flowers and even includes a couple steps to a stunning sea view. The surprising part is not many people know about it, but that's due in part to its location within a residential community and out of high traffic areas. Despite the tucked away position, it is easy to find and definitely worth the visit; even if it takes you a bit off route. The serenity, idyllic setting, and rare charm will keep you coming back. You can sit and have meetings, break for lunch, meditate, exercise, take the family on a walk, or simply be one with nature or yourself to hear your thoughts. Sundial Park is a stunningly executed project and one of the bigger highlights among our UCF projects in the territory. I really hope you get to visit! 

About Us

Hispanic Access Foundation connects Latinos and others with partners and opportunities to improve lives and create an equitable society.

Contact Us

FEATURED VIDEO