VITAL Partners with Rock Solid to Build a World-Class Trail System on St. Croix

The Virgin Islands Trail Alliance (VITAL) is excited to announce a new partnership with Rock Solid Trail Contracting to design and build a world-class trail system on St. Croix.

The trails will be constructed on land recently acquired by the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and will be managed by the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas. This new parkland offers an important opportunity to create a recreational landscape that serves residents, protects natural resources, and connects communities with the outdoors.

A Community-Driven Vision

The location and concept for this trail system did not emerge overnight. It was shaped through a series of meetings and conversations with the public, including community organizations, elders, biologists, historians, and other stakeholders.

These discussions helped ensure that the project reflects local knowledge, cultural history, and environmental priorities, while also creating a trail network that will benefit residents and visitors for generations.

Trails for Human-Powered Recreation

The new trail system will be designed specifically for human-powered recreation, including:

• Hiking

• Mountain biking

• Walking and nature exploration

No motorized vehicles will be permitted. The goal is to create a network of trails that encourages healthy outdoor activity while maintaining a quiet and natural environment.

Environmentally Responsible Trail Design

Professional trail builders from Rock Solid will construct the trails using modern, sustainable trail design techniques. This approach focuses on:

• Careful trail alignment that follows natural contours

• Built-in drainage to prevent erosion

• Durable trail surfaces that require minimal long-term maintenance

• Protection of sensitive environmental areas

Sustainable trail design ensures that trails remain stable, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible for decades.

Restoring Native Vegetation

The project area consists largely of former agricultural land now dominated by acacia and white manjack scrub. Along the new trail corridors, VITAL will work to restore native vegetation by planting:

• Native fruit trees

• Shade trees

• Species that support local wildlife and pollinators

Over time, these plantings will help transform the landscape into a healthier and more diverse ecosystem while also providing shade and beauty for trail users.

Connecting Communities to Nature

At its heart, this project is about connection.

The new trail corridors will create welcoming pathways that link surrounding communities to nature, recreation, and green space. By improving access to the outdoors, the project supports physical health, environmental stewardship, and a stronger relationship between people and the landscape of St. Croix.

VITAL looks forward to sharing updates as the project moves forward and to welcoming the community to experience these trails once they are completed.