One of the 50 nationwide Millennium Legacy Trails launched in 2000, the St. Croix Heritage Trail helps visitors relive the Danish colonial past of the island. All you need is a brochure and map available at the tourist office in Christiansted, and you can set out on this 72-mile road, which is teeming with historical and cultural sights.

The route connects the two major towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted and traverses the entire 28-mile length of St. Croix, passing former sugar plantations, cattle farms, suburban communities, industrial complexes, and resorts. Although it's not all manicured and pretty, much of it is scenic and worth the drive. The route consists mainly of existing roadways, and the pamphlet you picked up will identify everything you see. Allow at least a day to follow the entire trail, with stops along the way.

Nearly everyone gets out of the car at Point Udall, the easternmost point under the American flag. Two other highlights of the trail are the Estate Mount Washington, a strikingly well-preserved sugar plantation, and Estate Whim Plantation, one of the best of the restored great houses, with a museum and gift shop. Another worthwhile stop along the way is along Salt River Bay, which cuts into the northern shoreline. This was the site of Columbus's landfall in 1493.

Of course, you'll also want get to know the locals along the way. We recommend a refreshing stop at Smithens Market along the trail. Lying off Queen Mary Highway, vendors here offer freshly squeezed sugar cane juice and sell locally grown fruits and homemade chutneys.